The districts of Rio de Janeiro can be seen on the city map - formally it is subdivided into 34 districts, but traditionally the city is represented by four main districts.
Names and descriptions of major areas of Rio de Janeiro
- Southern region (includes Leblon, Copacabana, Leme, Ipanema, Botafogo, Lagoa): its main attractions are the statue of Christ the Redeemer (from the observation decks it is worth admiring the surroundings and taking amazing photos; and since helicopters are circling around the statue, you can go on a helicopter tour, cost about $ 150), Flamengo Park (suitable for walking and active pastime thanks to sports grounds, bike paths, boat stations, barbecue areas; in addition, there are museums of modern art and Carmen Miranda), Leblon beaches (suitable for wealthy tourists), Copacabana (surfing + beach volleyball + photographing sand sculptures), Ipanema (safe and pleasant swimming; prices 30% higher compared to Copacabana).
- Northern region: famous for Sáenz Peña square with its cafes, restaurant complexes, boutiques and cinemas, as well as stadiums, among which the Maracanã stadium stands out (a tour here involves viewing pictures of famous Brazilian football players, changing rooms and a football field). Tourists should be aware that many streets of the Northern District are patrolled by the police because of the frequent crimes and robberies that occur here (dubious citizens are subject to document checks and even searches).
- Barra da Tijuca: The area is famous for its 18 km long Barra Beach - thanks to the waves it is held in high esteem by kite and windsurfers (strong waves interfere with swimming, and children should not be left unattended here).
- Historic Center: Downtown is subdivided into several quarters, of which the Cinelandia and Lapa quarter stands out (visit the National Library with a collection of old books, Pedro Ernesto Palace, Teatro Municipal, Arcos de Lapa aqueduct; and if you are interested in the vibrant nightlife, it is worth spending your free time on Rua da Lapa street), Carioca and Uruguayana (famous for the Colombo pastry shop and the Campo do Santana park). Separately, mention should be made of the Santa Teresa quarter - it is famous for the Selaron mosaic staircase, the Orthodox Church of Saint Zinaida, the Park of Ruins, and the Bondinho trams, which are worth a ride.
Where to stay for tourists
A distinctive feature of Rio hotels is the lack of budget hotel rooms. In this regard, it is recommended to make hotel reservations in advance.
Many tourists prefer to check into hotels in the Copacabana area, as it is noisy and crowded. When you are in this area, you will always be in the center of important events. Among the hotels (middle price category) we can single out “Hotel Astoria Palace” and “Orla Copacabana Hotel”. You can look for relatively inexpensive hotels in the Lapa and Botafogo areas.
