Where To Stay In Rio ?

Finding a place to stay in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil greatly depends on how much you are willing to spend as the possibilities are endless. Basically, there are three major areas in which to choose lodging: the more expensive as well as sophisticated beach front of the famous Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon, the business-oriented City Centre and of course, the suburbs – Barra da Tijuca.

Centro – if you are planning a business trip to Rio, the City Center is the ideal place for you as the Center is exclusively a business area with decent restaurants and a few stores, not a tourist attraction at all. For a business traveler you have other options, take for example Aeroporto Othon which is situated across from the regional Santos Dumont airport, the Sao Franciso and the Gloria, on the center’s outskirts.

Copacabana – this is the heart of Rio, where all the traditional hotels are situated, with a very long stretch of road in front to walk along and numerous bars from which you can take your pick. Right on the beach front, you find the famous Copacabana Palace which shares the respectable 5 star distinction with the Rio Palace and Le Meridien. Also in this area you can find Othon which is another expensive hotel but not that expensive in comparison with the above mentioned hotels. If you move away from the beach, you have affordable options like the Savoy Othon which is right in the heart of the busy shopping zone.

Barra da Tijuca – if you are looking for a budget-priced hotel, this is the area for you. It is located just a few blocks away from the beach and you will be far away from the noise of the city but still very close to the beach. For those with a car, the California-style layout of the area is a nice way to travel around. Approximately 15 miles from the rest of Rio, you will find long-stay lodgings which are called “apart-hotels” which in most cases come with one or two bedrooms, a lounge, a kitchenette and a bathroom. Here you will find a moderately priced hotel by the name of Praia Linda that offers comfortable rooms, interesting food menu and a spacious garage. As an alternative, you can go to the Tryp Barra First which features shuttle services to the beach and a very modern décor.

Sao Conrado – on your way here you will spot the 5 star Rio Sheraton which is located on a cliff and partially hanging over the sea, offering a great sight. It features sports facilities like a large gym, tennis courts and others as well. In Sao Conrado you will observe the Intercontinental which is a luxurious hotel offering a large sports complex.

Ipanema - the lovely shores of Ipanema and Leblon boast a favorite hang-out of politicians and well-known celebrities - the Caesar Park, as well as some good but cheap alternative like the Marina Palace, the Praia Ipanema and the Sol Ipanema. On the back streets but still close to the beach and in the heart of the best shopping area in town are some other good places you might consider going to, take for example the Arpoador Inn, the Ipanema Inn, the Everest and the Leblon Inn, this last with fully-equipped flats.