Essential Insights on the Best Neighborhoods in Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is a vibrant cultural hub, with each neighborhood offering its own distinct atmosphere.

While Ipanema, Copacabana, and Lapa may be well-known, there are also emerging neighborhoods that are hidden gems you won't want to miss.

Discover everything you need to know about Rio de Janeiro's trendiest alternative neighborhoods – find the one that matches your style and start planning your next adventure.

Jardim Botânico

Ideal neighborhood for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and brunch aficionados

Jardim Botânico serves as the entrance to the Tijuca National Forest, the largest urban rainforest globally, featuring waterfalls, hiking trails, and stunning viewpoints overlooking the Marvelous City.

With its jungle-adjacent setting, this mainly residential area is filled with lush tropical plants and playful monkeys darting along the power lines.

The tree-lined streets are home to some of the city’s finest dining options – don’t miss La Bicyclette for brunch or JoJo Café Bistrô for oysters and champagne.

This neighborhood also boasts two of our favorite attractions – the Jardim Botânico that inspired its name and Parque Lage, a historic Italian-style mansion nestled in a manicured jungle, featuring an art school and café.

Though Jardim Botânico offers limited tourist accommodation, staying here provides a unique perspective on local life beyond just being a visitor.

JB is perfectly situated close to major attractions like Cristo Redentor and Pão de Açúcar, and it's only a short drive to Praça Mauá. However, public transportation options are limited; there are no metro lines, but you can navigate using bikes, buses, and ride-sharing services.

Gamboa

Top neighborhood for history, urban culture, and vibrant nightlife

The hottest emerging neighborhood in Rio is located just north of the city center, in a previously industrial area that was once quite neglected.

After the revitalization of Praça Mauá, Gamboa has transformed into Rio's latest cultural hub. Don't miss the stunning new Museu de Amanhã, the crown jewel of this rejuvenation, alongside its neighbor, Museu de Arte Rio (MAR).

Enhance your cultural journey with a lunch stop at Café Tero, situated at the entrance of the Morro de Conceição quarter. Take a moment to visit Cais do Valongo, an archaeological site that marks the landing point for enslaved Africans brought by European colonizers.

Dive into the urban art scene at Fabrica Bhering before touring the magnificent Cidade do Samba. For an exciting night out, head to Pedra do Sal and Bafo da Prainha, followed by a visit to Bar Dellas or an all-night party at The Home or Sacadura 154.

While it’s a lively area, we advise against booking your stay in this bustling urban zone. Enjoy all that the neighborhood has to offer, then retreat to your hotel on the quieter side of the city for a restful night.

Botafogo

The ultimate neighborhood for lively bars and a vibrant LGBTIQ+ scene

With an array of new options, enjoying a drink in Botafogo is the perfect way to wrap up a beach day or kick off your evening plans.

Among the trendiest bars are Quartinho, known for its Thursday night vibes; Chanchada, a female-centric LGBTIQ+ spot; and Buteco Treme Treme, another LGBTIQ+ favorite that keeps the party going all night.

After the beach, Baixo Botafogo is a popular choice, or check out Fuska, located at the junction of R. Cap. Salomã and R. Visc. de Caravelas. The nightlife begins just after sunset, as beachgoers seek out vibrant bars.

Botafogo also boasts a fantastic food scene, featuring everything from innovative vegetarian and vegan spots like Naturalie Bistrô and Vegan Vegan to two Michelin-starred restaurants, Lasai and Oteque.

Historically a student area, this neighborhood offers easy access to affordable accommodations. With metro lines, bike paths, and numerous buses, it’s an ideal base for exploring the city.

Leme

The ideal neighborhood for beach enthusiasts

While Ipanema, Leblon, and Copacabana are the go-to spots for beach lovers, there's a hidden gem at the far end of Copacabana that remains a well-kept secret among the savvy beach crowd.

Leme features just a few streets and minimal traffic, creating an even more relaxed atmosphere compared to the bustling beachfront.

Start your day with a coffee at the stylish Gaia Art Café before heading to the beach—Rasta Beach is the place to see and be seen. Enjoy a leisurely late lunch at the French-inspired S. Bistro, then hike up to Forte Duque de Caxias and make your way to Bar do David in the Chapéu Mangueira community, renowned for being named the second-best bar food in the city twice.

Afterward, return to your ocean-view Airbnb to relax and recharge before preparing for another exciting night in this amazing city.

Leme offers several stunning beachfront apartments and lofts on Airbnb, often available at more affordable rates than those in Ipanema or Leblon. For the adventurous, there are guesthouses in the Babilônia or Chapéu Mangueira communities up the hill—consider Pousada Estrelas da Babilônia for a highly recommended stay.

Santa Teresa

Best neighborhood for a bohemian atmosphere

Santa Teresa's charming colonial homes, vibrant street art, and laid-back lifestyle create an enchanting blend, making this hilltop neighborhood an ideal base for exploring the city.

Nestled near the city center, where museums and nightlife thrive, Santa Teresa feels like a cozy village within the bustling metropolis—everyone knows each other, and art and culture permeate the streets.

A variety of exciting local events take place here, such as Arte de Portas Abertas, an annual festival where artists welcome visitors into their studios, sparking vibrant street parties inspired by art.

Hop on the bonde, Rio's iconic yellow tram; enjoy sunset views from Largo das Neves or Parque das Ruinas; listen to chorinho (a Brazilian instrumental genre) on Monday evenings at Sergio's, or stroll through the shops and bars near Largo dos Guimaraes as the neighborhood's magic unfolds around you.

You'll find a variety of appealing accommodation options that serve as an excellent starting point for your city explorations—though with the neighborhood's charm, you might be tempted to stay put.