What to do in Rio de Janeiro with rain? Some may say that our city only suits sunny weather, but the truth is that there is always something to do in Rio de Janeiro when it’s raining. Above all, most of the time the heat predominates in Rio. It feels like summer here all the time!
In 2024, for example, we recorded the highest average temperature for autumn in the last 22 years! And in the carioca winter it’s common to see sunny days with clear blue skies.
Of course, from time to time we come across below-average temperatures and rainy days. Adriana Calcanhotto sings that ‘Cariocas don’t like cloudy days’, but the truth is that we always find a way to enjoy it, whatever the weather!
So we’ve prepared this blogpost for those planning to visit the wonderful city and make the most of it, whether it’s sunny or rainy. We’ll help you find out what to do in Rio de Janeiro in the rain and enjoy the best of the city. Check it out:
Rainiest months in Rio de Janeiro
June to September
This season is marked by lower temperatures compared to the other months of the year in Rio, with days of 18ºC as the minimum temperature, for example. The highs continue to reach 30º, with sunny days, blue skies, a cooler wind and, at nightfall, a milder temperature.
It’s also possible to have rainy days in Rio’s winter. Whether it’s a light drizzle, alternating periods of heavy rain or a gray sky, the important thing is that our city offers a wide range of activities.
December to March
Summer is here! During these months we experience the hottest season of the year. The one responsible for making Rio famous with temperatures that reach and even exceed 40°C. Perfect for enjoying the beach, right? But, above all, you just can’t forget the sunscreen!
And you should also be aware that the season is also marked by heavy rainfall in the late afternoon. These are the famous “waters of March closing the summer”, as Tom Jobim and Elis Regina sing.
It’s raining! Now what? Relax, Rio de Janeiro has everything to make your visit special, regardless of the weather. Take a look at what to do in Rio de Janeiro in rainy days:
What to do in Rio de Janeiro with rain? Activities for rainy days in Rio.
Cold, cloudy days are a great opportunity to enjoy cultural programs. And there’s plenty of culture here!
- Museu do Amanhã (“ Museum of Tomorrow”), located in the center of Rio at Praça Mauá, is a fascinating space dedicated to science and innovation;
- Museu de Arte do Rio (Rio Art Museum), next door to the Museu do Amanhã, has engaging exhibitions that celebrate the city’s art and history;
- Casa de Cultura Laura Alvim (Laura Alvim House of Culture), a venue for exhibitions and musical events, the house has been transformed into the G-20 House for the world’s largest economic meeting in 2024;
- Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil (Banco do Brasil Cultural Center), in downtown, offers art exhibitions, theater and cinema in a welcoming and inspiring environment;
- Galeria de Arte Ipanema (Ipanema Art Gallery), one of the oldest and most important in the country, has a rich collection of works by internationally renowned artists.
After visiting such incredible places, a stop for a hot coffee is almost mandatory, right? So get ready to visit one of Arpoador’s most special cafés.
arp bar
The arp bar is the perfect restaurant to welcome you and warm your heart on colder days. That’s because, as well as offering a unique menu focused on seafood and coastal cuisine, the privileged location makes it possible to contemplate the view of Arpoador beach. And the view is beautiful in any season!
Also, if you’re worried about the fresh wind coming in from the sea, arp has the solution. At the outdoor tables on the esplanade – which is the beach promenade – and on the terrace, there are warm blankets and heaters, ready to offer maximum comfort to your experience.
The restaurant is located on the first floor of the Hotel Arpoador. This way, the arp and the hotel offer the perfect combo for a visit to the wonderful city.
Hotel Arpoador
Above all, the Arpoador exalts the encounter between nature and the urban, offering the experience of feeling welcome at all times.
The hotel is located close to the beach and the main spots in the neighborhood, offering greater ease for its guests. And even when the weather is not perfect for a trip to the beach or a longer stroll around the city, the services on offer will allow you to enjoy your days like a true carioca.
Maré SPA
First of all, the massage room is an urban refuge that takes you into nature. There is a full menu of massages and experiences inspired by the sea and Rio’s sunsets.
For example, the candle massage | winter special. A relaxing body massage experience to warm up the body, promoting a moment of surrender and complete well-being.
The Maré Spa is also open to the public and you can purchase your voucher here.
Serviço de quarto
When it gets cold, we just feel like staying in bed, don’t we?
Here at the Arpoador you can! Take advantage of the colder weather to relax in the comfort of one of the hotel’s cozy rooms and enjoy room service.
From the menu available in each room, you can choose what to order from the delicious options in the arp kitchen and enjoy it all without leaving your room. Can it get any better?
Bikes cortesia
Hotel Arpoador also offers complimentary bikes to guests who want to enjoy the beach without getting wet. This way, you can take a stroll along one of the city’s most beautiful shores and warm up with a pedal.
Finally, it’s clear that Rio suits any weather! And you can make the most of this wonderful city with or without the sun. So, if you’re planning to visit Rio in any of these colder months, pack your sweatshirt and come and enjoy Rio’s cold weather.