Getaways from Rio de Janeiro: the best tips on destinations and tours
Rio de Janeiro is full of the most diverse attractions and leisure options. But in the middle of the hustle and bustle of carioca life, sometimes you feel like getting away from it all and exploring new destinations.
Fortunately, the state of Rio and its surroundings offer nearby towns full of charm, tranquillity and unique experiences, perfect for a quick and refreshing getaway.
And, to help you get to know and choose these destinations, we’ve prepared this blog post with the most beloved neighboring towns of Cariocas and unmissable tips on what to do when you visit them.
Ilha Grande
This tip is for those who want a natural refuge with crystal-clear waters and breathtaking landscapes. Made up of more than 100 beaches, the island is famous for its charming unpaved, car-free streets and its sandy restaurants – the perfect combination for moments of relaxation and enjoyment.
Despite its name, the island has a maximum number of visitors because it is a historical region and a preservation area. If you’re looking for tips on destinations and tours in Rio de Janeiro, this is an unmissable choice.
In addition, as we mentioned, cars are not allowed on the island. It is therefore important to organize and plan your arrival well. You can go by car or bus to one of the official crossing points (Mangaratiba, Conceição de Jacareí or Angra dos Reis) and take the boat to Ilha Grande. The spots have private parking lots and city hall parking spaces around them.
Tour tips in Ilha Grande
Just arrived in Ilha Grande. What’s next? Here are some tips on tours and attractions that will fill your time.
- Boat or speedboat trip around the island. There are several options for boat trips around the island. Just choose one that suits your preferences and enjoy;
- Abraão Circuit Trail; For those who want to move around more, the trail is considered light and leads to the viewpoint of Praia Preta and the waterfall known as Poção. It can be done on foot or by bicycle;
- Scuba diving
- Las Sorrentinas Restaurant
- Lopes Mendes Beach. Considered the most beautiful on the island and recognized worldwide, this beach should be part of your itinerary.
Accommodation on Ilha Grande
Ilha Grande is a great day-trip option, but of course for a complete experience the ideal is to spend a few days there and get to know everything the island has to offer. Here are some charming accommodation tips:
Sítio Ilha Grande is a true refuge of tranquillity and natural beauty. The place consists of two spaces, the cabana and the sobrado, a leisure area by the sea and breakfast included in all daily rates.
A unique and exclusive experience on Ilha Grande in the shade of bamboo and banana trees, within the fauna and flora of the tranquil bay of Abraãozinho. A space dedicated to the tranquillity and experiences of the region where luxury lies in simplicity.
Another tip goes to Paraíso Azul Retiro, an accommodation that guarantees contact with the sea and other aspects of nature 100% of the time. In every corner of the paradise you can enjoy spectacular sea views, immerse yourself in the Atlantic Forest and relax to the birdsong and the rhythmic sound of the waves.
There is also an exclusive beach, dry sauna, swimming pool, natural spring water hydromassage, yoga, bar and restaurant by the sea. The privileged location and the services offered will make your visit to Ilha Grande even more special.
Búzios
The tour of cities near Rio de Janeiro continues, now heading to one of the destinations most loved by locals and tourists from all over the world! The paradisiacal city of Búzios is one of the best options when looking for tips on destinations and tours in Rio de Janeiro. It has more than 20 beaches of all styles.
The place caters for all tastes, as it has the peace and quiet of the beaches and the excitement of the more urbanized areas, all with a beachy style. All of this is just 2 and a half hours by road from Rio to this natural paradise.
Tour tips in Búzios
The city is full of the most diverse attractions and leisure options. Below we’ve listed some memorable walks that are sure to enchant you even more.
- Stroll along the Bardot waterfront. Named after the French actress Brigitte Bardot, who loved the area, the waterfront has a beautiful view of Praia da Armação, accompanied by the sea breeze. Perfect for a quiet walk enjoying the natural landscape merging with the urban;
- Chez Michou Creperia. A pioneering chain of creperies, born in Búzios, with more than 50 sweet and savory flavors, in a super cool setting on the famous Rua das Pedras;
- Stroll along Rua das Pedras. Those who enjoy walking will love this trendy street with its excellent restaurants and stores for all tastes;
- Ferradura Beach. This tip is for those looking for a place to relax and enjoy with the whole family. As well as being very quiet, the beach also has pedal boats and kayaks for rent.
Accommodation in Búzios
To make the most of the region, a good choice of accommodation is essential. We’ve put together some tips on some lovely places to stay. Take a look.
Casas Brancas Boutique Hotel & SPA
Located on the shores of Armação Bay, Casas Brancas Boutique Hotel & Spa offers a unique lodging experience, where lightness and relaxation meet in perfect harmony.
The place guarantees personalized service, reflecting the essence and tradition that make the hotel memorable. There you can enjoy the natural beauty, hospitality and simple, elegant amenities that make Casas Brancas Boutique Hotel & Spa the perfect place to rest and reconnect.
The Insólito Boutique Hotel & SPA has a private beach and pool, exclusive services in a paradisiacal setting. Every detail of the hotel is designed to make you feel perfectly at home, guaranteeing memorable moments on your trip.
Through the accommodation, experiences and services offered with quality and refinement, you will enjoy the city of Búzios even more.
Petrópolis
Now, if when looking for a getaway from Rio, you’re also looking for a different climate and environment from those found in the capital, the mountainous region is the ideal destination. Made up of at least 15 cities, the area attracts people who want to enjoy a cooler climate and historical tours.
Petrópolis, the Imperial City, is very close to Rio de Janeiro, less than two hours away. There you can see houses and buildings from the time when the mountain town was a refuge for royalty during the Rio summer. The region also has waterfalls and trails for those who want to be close to nature.
Tour tips in Petrópolis
- Imperial Museum. Perfect for starting your historical tour of Petrópolis, the palace was one of the residences of the Brazilian imperial family;
- Santos Dumont House Museum. The summer residence of Alberto Santos Dumont, the father of aviation and known as “A Encantada”, the museum has a collection of objects, books, letters and furniture, as well as the famous entrance staircase, with racket-shaped steps, which can only be accessed by starting off on the right foot;
- Quitandinha Palace. It houses a SESC cultural center and offers free exhibitions and guided tours, as well as a large outdoor space overlooking the lake;
- Crystal Palace. Petrópolis’ postcard, the glass-covered palace is home to various cultural events in the city and is open to visitors.
Accommodation in Petrópolis
The charming city of Petrópolis also offers delicious lodging options that provide a memorable experience.
An hour from the city of Rio de Janeiro, Pousada da Alcobaça is one of the most charming places in the mountain region. It is a mansion from 1914, surrounded by gardens of roses, bromeliads, orchids and fragrant herbs.
Every detail has been carefully thought out and each of the inn’s twelve rooms is individually decorated, which adds to the charm of the surroundings. In addition, the opening hours are flexible and guests can have breakfast at any time they wish. The hotel restaurant is open to the public and offers authentic cuisine du terroir.
Experience all the refinement, historical tradition and comfort of the Locanda’s accommodation. The place brings history and beauty through every detail in the houses and structures of the facilities.
In addition, the accommodation is accompanied by unique experiences and quality modern Italian cuisine with dishes prepared with excellent ingredients, spices and with all the care of the chefs of the house.
Teresópolis
Our next destination is also in Rio’s charming mountainous region and is next door to Petrópolis, making it possible to visit both cities in a short period of time. Affectionately known as Terê, the city is a great option for those looking for tips on destinations and tours in Rio de Janeiro. It attracts visitors who want to enjoy the pleasant climate, memorable flavors and natural, cultural and historical environments of the place.
Teresópolis is considered the national mountaineering capital. That’s why, in winter, it attracts people who enjoy an adventure, but it’s also the perfect setting for relaxing while enjoying a good wine.
But the truth is that the city offers attractions all year round. Here are some tips on what to do in Teresópolis.
Tour tips in Teresópolis
- Serra dos Órgãos National Park. Although it has three sites, the city is home to the best known and appeals to all tastes, as it has everything from the most peaceful activities to the most hectic and extreme ones
- Mirante do Soberbo. This is where you’ll find the best view of the Dedo de Deus – Teresópolis’ postcard and the most famous mountain in the Serra dos Órgãos National Park;
- Feirinha do Alto. On Saturdays, Sundays and national holidays, the market offers a variety of products in a very pleasant atmosphere;
- Judith Fountain. Located a few meters from Feirinha do Alto, the fountain carries beliefs of healing and medicinal properties. Whether you believe in it or not, it’s worth a visit for its fresh water and charming tiles.
Accommodation in Petrópolis
Let’s take a look at the accommodation that will make your visit to the city even more enjoyable.
The spacious, comfortable chalets integrated with nature at the Embaúba Boutique Hotel provide a unique opportunity for relaxation, offering the ideal structure for a memorable stay.
There you can collect incredible experiences and enjoy the local cuisine. All this surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Located in the middle of the Atlantic forest in the hills of Teresópolis, the Urikana Boutique Hotel and Restaurant is a genuine refuge for those seeking privacy and comfort, enjoying all that nature can provide, combined with the sophistication and infrastructure of a boutique hotel.
In addition to the charming décor in the super intimate accommodation, the hotel has a range of leisure options and all the warmth of affective cuisine in its restaurant. Perfect for creating memorable moments in Terê’s unique setting.
Itaipava
A district of Petrópolis, Itaipava is about 40 minutes from there and around 1 hour and 15 minutes from Rio. For those looking for tips on destinations and tours in Rio de Janeiro, this mountainous region is perfect, allowing you to explore Petrópolis, Teresópolis and Itaipava in a single itinerary.
The place is extremely welcoming and full of charm, making it a popular destination for couples looking for a romantic spot.
Tour tips in Itaipava
- Itaipava Castle. Here you’ll find everything in one place: hotel, restaurants, amusement park, event space, as well as the medieval-inspired building open to visitors;
- Itaipava street market. Right next to Itaipava Castle you’ll find one of Itaipava’s trademarks – the traditional street market of small traders and local producers;
- Prefeito Paulo Rattes Municipal Park. The perfect place to take the whole family. Entrance to the park is free and it has a number of snack stalls and hosts large and small events;
- Pedra de Itaipava Trail. The 73rd highest mountain in Petrópolis and one of the most beautiful in the region.
Accommodation in Itaipava
Famous for its excellent accommodation and gastronomic services, the options for those wishing to spend a few days in Itaipava are enchanting. Take a look.
Just a few minutes from the center of Itaipava, Pousada Boutique offers an excellent structure for you to relax and enjoy a unique setting, surrounded by the Atlantic Forest.
In addition, the hotel’s restaurant has a French and Italian menu, offering excellent options of noble meats, risottos, pasta with seafood, fondue and much more. All this is served in a rustic lounge in front of the hotel’s swimming pool.
At Pousada Tankamana you’ll find romance and privacy in a setting surrounded by greenery.
Located 25 minutes from the center of Itaipava, this option is perfect for those looking for destinations and tours in Rio de Janeiro that offer emotional and immersive experiences in nature. The ideal choice for those who want moments of relaxation and peace in an invigorating setting.
So it’s clear that Rio de Janeiro can surprise you with a wide range of options to suit all tastes. And if you’re staying at the Hotel Arpoador, as well as finding a privileged location that gives you access to different parts of the city, the team of concierges is always on hand to answer any questions you may have about getaways from Rio.
