Things To Do
in Rio de Janeiro

A large Sunday arts-and-crafts market in Ipanema — also good for street snacks, fresh juices and local artisan foods.

A historic market complex with fresh produce, seafood stalls, restaurants and weekend feijoada options — great for sampling local ingredients.

Beach kiosks serve snacks (pastel, tapioca, açai bowls), seafood and cocktails — perfect for a casual beach meal or refreshment.

Northeastern food and cultural fair offering typical regional foods like carne de sol, tapioca, and strong forró music (Feira de São Cristóvão focuses on Northeastern cuisine).

Warm, friendly greetings are common: handshakes with men, and one or two cheek kisses among acquaintances and friends — mirror locals and be open but respectful.

Beachwear is fine on the sand, but avoid walking far from the beach in only a swimsuit; smart-casual attire is typical for restaurants and nightlife.

Use basic Portuguese courtesies (por favor, obrigado/obrigada) — small phrases are appreciated and help interactions.

When visiting churches or religious sites, dress modestly and behave respectfully; ask permission before photographing people in sensitive contexts.

Restaurants often include a 10% service charge (serviço) on the bill; if not included 10% is customary for good service. For small services (porters, taxi drivers) rounding up or a few reals is appreciated. Tipping performers or tour guides depends on quality and group size.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and stores in tourist areas; always carry some cash (reais) for beach kiosks, markets, small vendors and transport. ATMs are common but use machines in secure locations and avoid isolated ones at night. Mobile payments are growing but less ubiquitous than cards.

December to March: hot, humid and busy with beach activity; Carnival usually falls in February or March, bringing lively parades and packed streets. Expect higher prices and book accommodations early. Afternoon thunderstorms are common; stay hydrated and use sunscreen.

April to May: temperatures moderate, humidity decreases and crowds thin after Carnival and summer — good time for outdoor activities and sightseeing with more stable weather.

June to August: milder and drier with pleasant mornings and cooler nights (especially inland/higher elevations). Beach weather remains possible on many days and airfares/accommodations can be cheaper.

September to November: warming temperatures and blooming greenery in parks; shoulder-season travel with fewer crowds and improving sea temperatures for swimming and water sports.

Strong cultural influence across music, religion, cuisine and neighborhoods — especially visible in samba, Carnival traditions and favelas.

Large mixed-heritage population combining Indigenous, European and African ancestries — contributes to Brazil’s cultural diversity.

Significant population with roots from Portugal, Italy and other European countries — historically concentrated in some neighborhoods and commerce.

Vibrant, resilient neighborhoods often with strong community networks and cultural contributions; socio-economic conditions vary widely across favelas.

The most popular sport — local clubs, beach futsal and street games are central to daily life; stadium matches are major events.

Widely played on Ipanema and Copacabana sands, both recreationally and competitively.

Popular at beaches like Arpoador, Barra da Tijuca and Reserva; the city produces many skilled surfers.

Afro-Brazilian martial art combining dance and music — classes and performances can be found across the city.

Vegetarian options are increasingly common in restaurants, especially in Zona Sul and tourist areas; request 'sem carne' and note that many traditional dishes include meat broth, so ask about preparation.

Vegan-friendly cafes and restaurants are growing; markets and juice bars offer fruit-based options. Always check for hidden animal products like dashi-style broths or dairy in desserts.

Halal-specific restaurants are limited, but seafood and vegetarian dishes are widely available; verify meat sourcing at churrascarias and ask for grilled fish or vegetarian plates if halal certification is needed.

Pão de queijo is naturally gluten-free; ask about tapioca-based dishes (beiju) and confirm with restaurants whether sauces or breading contain wheat.