Rio de Janeiro deserves at least 3 days of exploration, and a well-planned itinerary helps you make the most of every moment. With stunning beaches, a vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes, the city offers unique experiences for all types of travelers.
If you want to optimize your trip, this guide brings together must-see attractions to create the perfect Rio de Janeiro itinerary. From Christ the Redeemer to Copacabana Beach, each spot has been carefully selected to make your trip unforgettable.
Let’s get straight to the point: Brasil ATM has put together practical tips and a well-structured schedule so you don’t miss a thing. Get ready to discover the best of Rio in just three days.
Read in this article:
- 3-day itinerary in Rio de Janeiro
- 3-day itinerary in Rio de Janeiro with kids
- Where to withdraw money from ATM24h machines in Brazil
- Discover Brasil ATM
- Frequently asked questions
3-Day Itinerary in Rio de Janeiro
Three days in Rio de Janeiro are enough to experience the city’s essence, but a well-planned itinerary is essential to make the most of your time. With beaches, mountains, and a vibrant culture, every hour counts to enjoy the best Rio has to offer.
This guide helps you plan your trip efficiently, with tips to optimize your itinerary without missing the most famous attractions. That way, you ensure a complete and hassle-free experience.
1 Day in Rio de Janeiro
Start your itinerary in Rio de Janeiro with its most famous landmark: Christ the Redeemer. Arrive early to avoid lines and enjoy the unobstructed city views. The cable car ride to Corcovado is already part of the experience.
Next, head to Parque Lage, a green retreat with charming architecture and easy trails. It’s a great spot for a late breakfast before your next stop.
- Morning: Christ the Redeemer + Parque Lage
- Afternoon: Lunch at Aprazível (panoramic view) or a budget-friendly option at Confeitaria Colombo
- Evening: Sunset at Arpoador and a stroll along Ipanema’s waterfront
End the day with dinner in Leblon or a stop at Bar Urca for cod fritters with a view of Guanabara Bay. This first day covers Rio’s essentials at a balanced pace.
2 Days in Rio de Janeiro
Dedicate your second day to two natural icons: Sugarloaf Mountain and Tijuca Forest. Start your morning with the Sugarloaf cable car to avoid crowds and enjoy the best city views.
- Morning: Sugarloaf Mountain + Praia Vermelha (coffee with a view)
- Afternoon: Lunch at Rio’s restaurant or a quick bite at Urca’s kiosk
- Evening: São Cristóvão Fair or Lapa (nightlife)
Spend the afternoon exploring Tijuca Forest, with stops at Taunay Waterfall and Excelsior Lookout. For a slower pace, swap it for a visit to the Botanical Garden.
Wrap up the day experiencing authentic Carioca culture at São Cristóvão Fair or with a drink at Selina Santos, which offers live music and a laid-back atmosphere. This day blends nature and tradition in your 3-day Rio itinerary.
3 Days in Rio de Janeiro
Save your last day in Rio for its famous beaches and rich history. Start your morning at Copacabana Beach, with breakfast at one of its classic beachfront kiosks.
- Morning: Copacabana Beach + Copacabana Fort (stunning views and military museum)
- Afternoon: Lunch at the traditional Cervantes or Galeto Sat’s
- Evening: Sunset at Leblon Lookout or dinner at Jobi
Visit the Museum of Tomorrow or the Banco do Brasil Cultural Center for a deep dive into local culture. If you prefer to stay outdoors, walk along Leblon Beach to the lookout point.
End your 3-day Rio itinerary with a casual dinner at Jobi or a visit to the Ipanema Hippie Fair if it’s Sunday. This mix of sea and culture ensures a perfect ending to your trip.
3-Day Itinerary in Rio de Janeiro with Kids
Traveling to Rio de Janeiro with kids requires an adapted itinerary that balances fun and relaxation. In three days, you can visit attractions that delight little ones while still exploring the city’s most famous sights.
This itinerary focuses on open spaces, interactive experiences, and playful activities. Beaches, parks, and educational tours ensure a smooth trip filled with great memories for the whole family.
1 Day in Rio de Janeiro with Kids
Start your itinerary in Rio de Janeiro with attractions that enchant little ones. The Sugarloaf Cable Car is a must-do ride, offering a panoramic view that impresses the whole family.
- Morning: Sugarloaf Mountain + Praia Vermelha (a quiet area for kids to play)
- Afternoon: Lunch at Rio’s or Urca kiosks + visit to AquaRio
- Evening: Dinner at Shopping Leblon (varied options and a kids’ area)
AquaRio, the largest marine aquarium in South America, is a must-stop on your Rio de Janeiro itinerary with kids. End the day with a peaceful family-friendly dinner.
2 Days in Rio de Janeiro with Kids
Your second day in Rio de Janeiro with kids can combine learning and nature. Start at the Botanical Garden, where little ones can run among imperial palm trees and explore the sensory garden.
- Morning: Botanical Garden + Parque Lage (a wide-open space for picnics)
- Afternoon: Lunch at Zaza Bistrô + Museum of Tomorrow (interactive and educational)
- Evening: Ice cream at Mil Frutas or a stroll along Botafogo Beach
The Museum of Tomorrow offers playful experiences that entertain while teaching. End the day with artisan ice cream or watching the sunset at Botafogo Beach, which has a spacious promenade for kids to play.
3 Days in Rio de Janeiro with Kids
The last day of your Rio de Janeiro itinerary with kids should be light and fun. Start at Copacabana Beach, where little ones can play in the sand and cool off in the sea.
- Morning: Copacabana Beach + Copacabana Fort (green area and an intriguing museum)
- Afternoon: Lunch at Galeto Sat’s + Cable Car Ride in Santa Teresa
- Evening: Dinner at Shopping Leblon or São Cristóvão Fair (on weekends)
The Santa Teresa cable car is an adventure kids love. To wrap up your 3-day itinerary in Rio, choose a relaxed dinner or the lively São Cristóvão Fair, with music and traditional food.
Where to withdraw cash from ATM24h in Brazil
To make the most of your Rio de Janeiro itinerary, carrying cash is a good idea. It ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience. In some places, cash is essential for food, transportation, attraction tickets, and more.
Check out the table below for 24-hour ATMs in the locations mentioned in this article:
| Where | Location |
| Aeroporto Internacional do Galeão | View locations here |
| Aeroporto Santos Dumont | View locations here |
| MetrôRio | View locations here |
| Sheraton Rio & Resort | View locations here |
| Ipanema Beach Hostel | View locations here |
Discover Brasil ATM (At The Moment)
At Brasil ATM, we see Brazil as a place full of unique beauty and fascinating culture. Our portal, supported by the global ATM24h brand, reflects our love for Brazil. We aim to inspire tourists to explore its wonders safely and informed.
We provide accurate, updated, and inspiring information in three languages. With us, you’ll have everything you need to plan your trip with confidence. We offer travel guides, detailed itineraries, and helpful planning tips.
We want to create memories that last. We’ll show you the natural and cultural beauty of Brazil. Explore famous destinations like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, and discover hidden gems like Lençóis Maranhenses and Fernando de Noronha. We’re here to help you make the most of your trip.
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- Things to do in Lapa, Rio de Janeiro’s bohemian neighborhood
- What to do in Rio de Janeiro by yourself
- What to do in Santa Teresa, Rio de Janeiro
- The most beautiful observatories in Rio de Janeiro
Frequently asked questions:
In 3 days, prioritize Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, beaches like Copacabana and Ipanema, and cultural attractions such as the Museum of Tomorrow. A well-planned itinerary ensures you see the essentials without rushing. Check out our complete 3-day itinerary for Rio de Janeiro on Brasil ATM.
Don’t miss Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, Copacabana Beach, and Tijuca Forest. These landmarks define the Rio experience. See how to include them in your 3-day itinerary on Brasil ATM.
The best itinerary balances nature, culture, and leisure: Day 1 for Christ and parks, Day 2 for Sugarloaf and the forest, Day 3 for the beaches. We have a detailed guide on Brasil ATM.
Include AquaRio, the Santa Teresa tram, beaches, and interactive museums like the Museum of Tomorrow. Discover our family-friendly 3-day itinerary on Brasil ATM.
