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The Best Tattoo Parlors in Rio De Janeiro

Tattoo artists can stencil the design first or go freehand
Tattoo artists can stencil the design first or go freehand | © Dmitry SHISHKIN / Alamy Stock Photo

While some people may collect magnets or postcards as souvenirs to remember a special trip, others get tattoos. It’s a unique way to symbolize a unique memory but as a tattoo is for life, you definitely don’t want to get it done in any old place. Here’s our pick of the best spots in Brazil’s capital city.

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Original Tattoo Studio

It’s unsurprising that Botafogo – Rio de Janeiro’s quirkiest and most hipster neighborhood – would have one of the best tattoo parlors in the city, a title that goes to Original Tattoo Studio. The parlor works with a variety of different styles of tattoo from realism to abstract designs and patterns, as well as all sorts of piercings. Here you are in good hands as the studio is clean and professional. Ask for Paulo – everyone raves about how great a tattoo artist he is.

King 7 Tattoo

Tattooist preparing to work

Located in Copacabana, King 7 Tattoo parlor has been around for years and has flawlessly built up a reputation for its picture-perfect tattoos. The parlor works with a wide range of designs from realism (in the truest sense of the word) to abstract, and from colored styles to classic black and white. They can also do all manner of different piercings and deliver great after-care tips and advice.

Ipanema Ink

The reviews don’t lie; with around 60 five-star reviews on their social media pages, Ipanema Ink is one of the best tattoo parlors in Ipanema. The pristine environment will reassure anyone who is concerned about hygiene, while the friendly, kind staff go above and beyond to keep nervous clients happy and relaxed. Their best work is their bold, colorful designs, and they have an impressive portfolio of great cover-ups. They also do all different piercings.

RioInk Tattoo Studio

Located in Flamengo, RioInk Tattoo Studio also has a second parlor in Barra da Tijuca, helping to provide tattoos to residents and visitors over a wide area. Whether you want something small and simple or large and complex, the parlor has experienced, talented artists who can translate your ideas into an immaculate design on your skin. Prices vary based on size and design, so message them through Facebook to get a quote for your idea.

Mega Wart’z Tattoo Studio

Denmark is home to a wide range of tattoo studios, each with its own distinct style

Considered among one of the best tattoo studios in town and with a strong presence at Rio’s famous Tattoo Week (an annual weekend event dedicated to tattoos), Mega Wart’z Tattoo Studio has two parlors in Rio – one in Ipanema and another in the city’s downtown. From large colorful sleeves to intricate designs, their range of tattoos is outstanding and it seems no design is outside of their capability.

Smoke Dragon Tattoo and Piercing

Located in Rio‘s downtown, Smoke Dragon Tattoo and Piercing is undoubtedly one of the best in the area, with incredible tattoo designs and literally every piercing under the sun available onsite. The tattoo portfolio has a comprehensive mix of realism and abstract, small and large, colorful and black and white, so you can be confident that whatever design you want, the parlor’s artists can skillfully ink it onto your skin.

About the author

Sarah is a British freelance journalist and writer based in Rio de Janeiro. Her favourite travel experiences so far include swimming with whale sharks in Mexico, trekking through Rio's urban forest and enjoying the city life in Madrid. Find her on Instagram @sbgrio

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