Top 10 Sights In Rio De Janeiro

There’s really no place quite like Rio de Janeiro. The Brazilian city continues to attract millions of people every year, providing its visitors with memorable cultural experiences and many sights to behold. With famous beaches, tropical landscapes, lush rainforests and captivating history, there’s really no limit to what this sprawling metropolis has to offer. Here are 10 sights in Rio that aren’t to be missed.

1. Ilha de Paquetá

Natural Feature

Ilha de Paquetá is a picturesque island located in Guanabara Bay. A car-free zone allowing only transport by foot, bike or horse-drawn cart, it is one of the best places to go to escape the frenzy of Rio. Admittedly the area gets rather crowded on weekends, yet during the week once the frenzy subsides, visitors can explore the scenic island in peace, marveling at the charming colonial buildings, sprawling beaches and the selection of 20 African baobabs that grow here. To get to the Ilha de Paquetá, take the boat from Praça XV (Quinze) de Novembro in Centro – the journey takes just over an hour.

2. Christ the Redeemer

Forest, Park

One of the seven wonders of the world, the Christ the Redeemer statue is a must-see in Rio. Built over nine years as a symbol of Brazilian Christianity, today the structure of reinforced concrete and Swedish soapstone continues to stand as one of the largest art deco statues in the world at a whopping 98 feet tall and 92 feet wide. Located at the peak of Crocovado mountain in the Tijuca Forest National Park, Christ the Redeemer provides sensational views over Rio and is undoubtedly the city’s most famous cultural icon and landmark.