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Explore the states of Brazil with detailed regional travel guides, plus find travel guides for the top destinations in each state. Discover the unique charm of each state and plan your perfect trip. Home > States of Brazil States of Brazil Regional Travel Guides Learn about the states of Brazil in these regional travel guides, including top attractions, regional cuisines and famous dishes, and the festivals and events held in each state. Plus, find detailed travel guides for the top destinations in each Brazilian state, including where to stay, destination tips, detailed transport guides on how to get there and how to get around. Goias Central-West Brazil Capital City: Goiás is inland and known for ecotourism in the Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park and thermal springs in Caldas Novas. Read More Minas Gerais South-East Brazil Belo Horizonte Capital City: Minas Gerais is an inland state recognised for its historic colonial mining towns like Ouro Preto and Tiradentes. Tourism is also focused on its distinct gastronomy. Read More Sergipe North-East Brazil Aracaju Capital City: Sergipe is Brazil’s smallest state, with coastal attractions including Aracaju’s beaches and the São Francisco River canyon at Xingó. Read More Paraiba North-East Brazil Joao Pessoa Capital City: Paraíba offers historic sites in João Pessoa, the easternmost point of the Americas at Ponta do Seixas, and quiet beaches along its coastline. Read More Mato Grosso do Sul Central-West Brazil Capital City: Mato Grosso do Sul attracts tourists to the Pantanal, the world’s largest tropical wetland, known for wildlife viewing, and to the clear rivers and caves of Bonito for snorkelling and diving. Read More Federal District of Brazil Central-West Brazil Brasilia Capital City: Federal District contains Brasília, Brazil’s capital, with modernist architecture by Oscar Niemeyer and planned urban design attracting visitors interested in political and architectural tourism. Read More Santa Catarina Southern Brazil Florianopolis Capital City: Santa Catarina combines Atlantic beaches such as those on Florianópolis Island with European-influenced towns like Blumenau, known for hosting German festivals such as Oktoberfest. Read More Rio Grande do Norte North-East Brazil Natal Capital City: Rio Grande do Norte offers a full range of coastal attractions including snorkeling at coral reefs, surf beaches, swimming with dolphins, and the sand dunes of Genipabu Read More Alagoas North-East Brazil Maceio Capital City: Alagoas is a small northeastern state known for its clear-water beaches and coral reefs, and is home to the popular beach towns of Maragogi and São Miguel dos Milagres Read More Pernambuco North-East Brazil Recife & Olinda Capital City: Pernambuco is a diverse state home to the colourful colonial city of Olinda, the natural pools of Porto de Galinhas, the cultural festivals of Recife, and the inland São João festivities in Caruaru Read More Ceara North-East Brazil Fortaleza Capital City: Ceará is known for its long sandy beaches, consistent wind conditions ideal for kitesurfing, and tourism centres like Jericoacoara and Canoa Quebrada. Read More Amazonas Northern Brazil Manaus Capital City: Amazonas is Brazil’s largest state by area, located in the Amazon rainforest with tourism centred on ecotourism, river cruises, and the city of Manaus serving as a gateway to the jungle Read More Para Northern Brazil Belem Capital City: Pará features the Amazon River and rainforest access through the city of Belém, as well as Ilha do Marajó with river beaches and unique buffalo culture. Read More Maranhao North-East Brazil Capital City: Maranhão is home to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, where seasonal rain creates freshwater lagoons among white sand dunes, and the colonial city of São Luís. Read More Parana Southern Brazil Curitiba Capital City: Paraná is known for Iguaçu Falls, one of the world's largest waterfall systems, and the preserved Atlantic Forest that can be visited in the state's National Parks. Read More Rio Grande do Sul Southern Brazil Porto Alegre Capital City: Rio Grande do Sul attracts visitors to the wine region of Serra Gaúcha, alpine-style towns like Gramado and Canela, and coastal areas such as Praia do Cassino. Read More Bahia North-East Brazil Salvador Capital City: Bahia is known as being the heart of Afro-Brazilian culture with unique cuisine, Salvador’s colonial architecture, and the longest coastline of any Brazilian state. Its inland attractions include Chapada Diamantina National Park. Read More Sao Paulo State South-East Brazil Sao Paulo Capital City: São Paulo is Brazil’s most populous state, and home to the city of São Paulo, Brazil's economic centre. It is famous for cultural institutions like the Sao Paulo Museum of Art (MASP), the Japanese Liberdade district, and the Costa Verde (Green Coast). Read More Rio de Janeiro State South-East Brazil Rio de Janeiro Capital City: Rio de Janeiro is famous for its iconic landmarks including the Christ the Redeemer statue, Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, and for its parties - hosting massive Carnival and New Years Eve celebrations. Read More Need more inspiration for your trip to Brazil? Where to watch the 2026 World Cup in Rio de Janeiro Festivals & Events The 10 best weekend trips from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Tourist Attractions The 10 best day trips from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Tourist Attractions Best Beaches in Ilhabela: What to Visit and How to Choose Tourist Attractions 1 2 3 4 5

Discover Brazil's best destinations with over 45 comprehensive travel guides. Discover hidden gems in Brazil and plan your perfect adventure. Travel Guides for Brazil's Best Destinations Whether you're looking for the best beach vacation spots in Brazil, thrilling adventure sports, or a vibrant food scene, I have a perfect destination in Brazil for you. With landscapes ranging from rainforest to pristine beaches, together with deep cultural traditions and diverse culinary experiences, the country offers endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Choose a destination below to see a practical travel guide with detailed instructions on how to get there, the top things to see and do, where to stay, and important things to know before you go. Filter by State Select State Filter by Location Type Select Location Type Filter by Activities Select Activity Lencois Maranhenses Maranhão Do you know what happens when it rains over pristine, white sand dunes? This unique national park has the answer. Read More Chapada Diamantina Bahia Swimming in waterfalls, hiking, rock-climbing: Everyone agrees - there's magic in the air here Read More Arraial D'Ajuda Bahia This tourist town combines beautiful beach with plenty of shopping, restaurants, and lively nightlife. Read More Belem ‎Pará Fishing villages lie along the northern coast, at the mouth of the Amazon River. Read More Caraiva Bahia Take a canoe to cross the river to Caraiva and unwind like never before on miles of deserted white sandy beach. Read More Trancoso Bahia Walk for miles along tranquil beaches where the river meets the sea Read More Ubatuba São Paulo From the hills covered by the Atlantic Rainforest to the rolling waves by the sea, Ubatuba is a tropical paradise Read More Florianopolis Santa Catarina This island city has 42 beaches, numerous hiking trails, and fantastic nightlife Read More Iguazu Falls Paraná The widest waterfall in the world sits on the border of Brazil and Argentina Read More Ilhabela São Paulo A sanctuary for nature, Ilhabela has 360 waterfalls, beautiful beaches and dense jungle Read More Salvador Bahia Discover the vibrant rhythms of Salvador, where Afro-Brazilian culture is reflected in the historic Pelourinho district, capoeira performances, and traditional Bahian cuisine Read More Boipeba Bahia Take a break among the coconut plantations, or explore the natural beauty of this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Read More Ilha do Mel Paraná Hike to Lighthouse Hill for panoramic views, visit Encantadas Cave, and relax on tranquil beaches. Read More Ilha Grande Rio de Janeiro Long, sandy beaches and crystal clear waters - take a hike or boat ride to see this Island's best attractions Read More Itacare Bahia Learn to surf in Itacaré, or relax with a coconut on one of it's remote pristine beaches Read More Porto Alegre Rio Grande do Sul Experience the cultural heartbeat of Southern Brazil Read More Pipa Rio Grande do Norte Spot dolphins while you learn to surf below Pipa's stunning cliff-lined beaches Read More Ouro Preto Minas Gerais A hilly historic town turned university city, with lively nightlife Read More Rio de Janeiro Rio de Janeiro Culture and history. Beaches and nature. Cuisine and nightlife. Rio de Janeiro proves you really can have it all. Read More Morro de Sao Paulo Bahia Morro de São Paulo offers an enticing balance of tranquil beach days, nightlife, and nature Read More Curitiba Paraná Explore one of Brazil’s most sustainable cities, known for its green spaces and urban planning. Read More Joao Pessoa Paraíba Discover the serene beauty of João Pessoa, where white-sand beaches and a laid-back vibe lead you to the most eastern point in the Americas Read More Maceio Alagoas Maceió is the gateway to the Alagoas, a string of beaches with calm clear water and natural pools. Read More Belo Horizonte Minas Gerais Eat and drink in the birthplace of Pão de Queijo, and visit the world's largest open-air museum Read More Paraty Rio de Janeiro See the historic town's colored buildings in the reflection of flooded cobblestone streets Read More Brasilia Federal District Brasília, the capital of Brazil, is known for it's white modern architecture designed by Oscar Niemeyer. Read More Maragogi Alagoas Boat out to the natural pools or relax on the white sands of Antunes beach Read More Gramado Rio Grande do Sul This mountain resort town is known for European-style architecture, Christmas festivals, and chocolate shops Read More Porto Seguro Bahia The gateway to the beaches of Southern Bahia, Porto Seguro has cheap sunset markets and some beautiful beaches of it's own. Read More Fernando de Noronha Pernambuco A remote Brazilian island paradise off the coast of Pernambuco, with crystal-clear waters, volcanic rock formations, and the best scuba-diving in Brazil Read More Natal Rio Grande do Norte Ride the sand dunes of Genipabu and enjoy Ponta Negra beach with its iconic Morro do Careca dune. Read More Jericoacoara Ceará There are few places with a more spectacular sunset than windy Jericoacoara. Watch it from the top of the dunes, or down by the ocean. Jeri is also hotspot for kitesurfing and adventure sports. Read More Novo Airao Amazonas Novo Airão is a small town in Amazonas, Brazil. Novo Airao is the gateway to the Anavilhanas National Park, a vast river archipelago with over 400 islands, flooded forests, and aquatic ecosystems along the Rio Negro. Read More Cabo Frio & Buzios Rio de Janeiro Cold blue water. Hot white sand. They call this the Brazilian Caribbean. Read More Presidente Figueiredo Amazonas Presidente Figueiredo is known as the “Land of the Waterfalls” for its more than 100 waterfalls and caves nestled deep in the Amazon rainforest Read More Barra Grande Bahia Take a boat to this secluded paradise on the Maraú Peninsula, where golden beaches, natural pools, and lush Atlantic Forest create the perfect tropical escape. Read More Guarda do Embau Santa Catarina A magical place to camp overlooking deep blue waters and rolling hills. Read More Recife & Olinda Pernambuco Explore Recife's historic Old Town with its rivers and bridges, and enjoy the vibrant beach and nightlife in Boa Viagem. Read More Fortaleza Ceará The gateway to a number of Brazil's most beautiful beaches has some tranquil spots of its own Read More Ilheus Bahia Learn about Ilhéus' chocolate heritage at the Cocoa Museum, explore the colonial downtown, and savor local seafood. Read More Sao Paulo São Paulo The business capital of Brazil is home to the best international cuisine the country has to offer. Read More Tiradentes Minas Gerais Known for its cobblestone streets, baroque churches, and the Maria Fumaça steam train, Tiradentes is a hotspot for cultural and gastronomy festivals. Read More Santarem & Alter do Chao Para The white sand beaches on the Tapajós River and Lago Verde earned Alter do Chao the nickname "The Caribbean of the Amazon" Read More Chapada dos Veadeiros Goias Hike, swim, repeat. Towering waterfalls and refreshing clear waters. Read More Manaus Amazonas The gateway to the Amazon jungle. Read More Porto de Galinhas Pernambuco Snorkel in Porto de Galinhas' famous natural tide pools teeming with colorful marine life Read More Aracaju Sergipe Visit the giant turtles at the Projeto TAMAR turtle sanctuary Read More Pantanal Mato Grosso & Mato Grosso do Sul The best wildlife in Brazil can be see here, in the world's largest wetlands Read More Canoa Quebrada Ceará Iconic red sand cliffs line this beautiful beach, which is a hotspot for paragliding. Read More Amazon Jungle Amazonas Embark on a thrilling adventure into the heart of the Brazilian Amazon, where unparalleled biodiversity and untouched wilderness await. Read More

Find travel guides for the top destinations in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, plus learn about Rio Grande do Sul's tourist attractions, regional cuisine, festivals & events, and more. Home > States of Brazil > Rio Grande do Sul Rio Grande do Sul Travel Guide Southern Brazil Rio Grande do Sul attracts visitors to the wine region of Serra Gaúcha, alpine-style towns like Gramado and Canela, and coastal areas such as Praia do Cassino. Skip to: State overview State quick facts Travel guides Tourist attractions Must-try regional dishes Festivals & events About Sao Paulo About the State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil Rio Grande do Sul is Brazil’s southernmost state, sharing borders with Uruguay and Argentina and covering an area of approximately 281,700 square kilometers. With a population of about 11 million, it is one of the most culturally distinct states in Brazil, shaped by waves of European immigration - especially German, Italian, and Polish. The state also has strong indigenous and gaucho (cowboy) traditions. The state capital is Porto Alegre , a major urban and cultural center known for its literary scene, historical architecture, and political activism. Historically, Rio Grande do Sul has played a central role in national conflicts, including the Ragamuffin War (1835–1845), a regional republican revolt that remains a key part of the state’s identity and is commemorated annually during Semana Farroupilha . Geographically, Rio Grande do Sul features a diverse landscape that includes coastal lagoons, rolling plains, highland plateaus, and temperate forests. The Pampas region in the south is characterized by vast grasslands and a strong gaucho culture centered on horseback riding, mate (chimarrão) drinking, and traditional barbecue (churrasco). To the north and northeast, the Serra Gaúcha is a mountainous area known for its European-influenced towns such as Gramado and Canela, which attract visitors with their Alpine-style architecture, cooler climate, and seasonal festivals like Natal Luz (Christmas of Lights). The region is also home to national parks such as Aparados da Serra and Serra Geral, which feature dramatic canyons like Itaimbezinho and extensive hiking trails. Along the Atlantic coast, beach towns such as Torres and Capão da Canoa are popular summer destinations. The economy of Rio Grande do Sul is highly diversified, with strong agricultural, industrial, and service sectors. It is a leading producer of grains such as soybeans, wheat, and corn, as well as livestock, particularly cattle and pigs. The state is also a major center for wine production, especially in the Serra Gaúcha region, Brazil’s largest and most developed wine region. Porto Alegre serves as the financial and commercial heart of the state. Cross-border trade with Argentina and Uruguay is facilitated by the state’s position in the Mercosur trade bloc, enhancing its strategic economic relevance. Quick Facts: Rio Grande do Sul Population of Rio Grande do Sul: Approximately 11.3 million (IBGE 2022 estimate) Area of Rio Grande do Sul: 281,748 square kilometres Nicknames: People from Porto Alegre are called portoalegrenses , while people from anywhere else in Rio Grande do Sul State are called gaúchos . Major Airports in Rio Grande do Sul Salgado Filho International Airport ( Porto Alegre ) Regional Airport of Caxias do Sul Pelotas Airport Uruguaiana Airport Santa Maria Airport Climate and Best Time to Visit Rio Grande do Sul Humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons: hot summers, cold winters Rainfall evenly distributed throughout the year Best time to visit: September to November and March to May See all travel guides for destinations in Rio Grande do Sul Gramado Travel Guide Porto Alegre Travel Guide Top Tourist Attractions in Rio Grande do Sul Porto Alegre historic centre and parks Gramado (Serra Gaúcha region) Canela (Serra Gaúcha region) São Miguel das Missões Jesuit Ruins Bento Gonçalves wine region and Vale dos Vinhedos Aparados da Serra National Park and Itaimbezinho Canyon Lagoa dos Patos (largest lagoon in Brazil) Museum of the Gaucho (Santana do Livramento) Parque Estadual de Itapeva (Serra do Sudeste) Mercado Público ( Porto Alegre ) Farroupilha Park ( Porto Alegre ) Must-try Regional Dishes in Rio Grande do Sul The cuisine of Rio Grande do Sul blends Gaucho barbecue traditions with European-inspired dishes, featuring fire-roasted meats, corn-based dishes, and preserved foods that reflect the state's ranching history. 10 Must-Try Regional Dishes from Rio Grande do Sul: Churrasco Gaúcho – Traditional southern Brazilian barbecue where cuts of beef, pork, and lamb are seasoned simply with rock salt and slow-roasted on skewers over open flame; often served with chimichurri or vinaigrette salad. Arroz de Carreteiro – A rice dish made with sun-dried beef, garlic, onions, and sometimes tomatoes, originally cooked by ox-cart drivers (carreteiros). Galeto al Primo Canto – Young chicken marinated with garlic, white wine, and herbs, then grilled over charcoal. A staple of Italian-Gaúcho cuisine, often served with polenta and radicci com bacon (bitter greens with bacon). Ximango – A lesser-known Gaucho dish made from beans, corn, dried meat, and squash, cooked together into a thick stew, especially popular in rural areas. Pinhão Cozido – Boiled seeds of the Araucária tree (a native pine), traditionally eaten during the cold months. Most commonly found in the mountainous regions of the state. Cuca Gaúcha – A German-Brazilian coffee cake made with a yeasted dough, topped with a buttery streusel and sometimes fruit or doce de leite Entrevero – A mixed-grill stir-fry combining various meats (beef, sausage, chicken) with vegetables and spices, cooked in a large skillet. Popular at festivals. Polenta Brustolada – Thick slices of cooked polenta grilled or fried until crisp on the outside, often topped with cheese or meat sauce Sopa de Capeletti – A clear chicken broth soup with small meat-filled pasta dumplings, commonly served during family gatherings and holidays in Italian-descendant communities. Chimia – A thick, jam-like preserve made from fruits such as apple, fig, or pumpkin, typically served with bread or cueca virada (fried pastry). Typically served for breakfast or as a snack. Travel resources for planning your trip to Brazil < Previous state Next state > Festivals & Events in Rio Grande do Sul Semana Farroupilha : The biggest celebration of Gaucho culture in Rio Grande do Sul, held every September, featuring traditional dress, horseback parades, chimarrão rituals, music, and reenactments of the 19th-century Farroupilha Revolution. Oktoberfest – Santa Cruz do Sul : The second largest Oktoberfest in Brazil, after Blumenau , this festival celebrates German heritage with traditional beer, folk music, dance, and authentic cuisine in one of the state’s biggest cities. Festa Nacional da Música (FENAMU) – Bagé : A major music festival showcasing regional and national artists, focused on traditional gaucho genres like música nativista and sertaneja, with concerts, contests, and cultural exhibitions. Festival Internacional de Teatro de Porto Alegre (FITPOA) : An important event in the performing arts calendar, attracting national and international theater companies with plays, workshops, and street performances throughout the state capital. Festa do Pinhão – Lages : Celebrating the pine nut harvest, this autumn festival includes typical foods, crafts, folk music, and dance, deeply connected to the mountain region’s traditions. Procissão de São João Batista – Pelotas : A deeply rooted religious procession held every June, combining Catholic devotion with local culture, featuring colorful processions and folk rituals in one of Rio Grande do Sul’s most historic cities. Where to watch the 2026 World Cup in Rio de Janeiro Festivals & Events The 10 best weekend trips from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Tourist Attractions The 10 best day trips from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Tourist Attractions Best Beaches in Ilhabela: What to Visit and How to Choose Tourist Attractions Need more inspiration for your trip to Brazil?

If you are in Rio de Janeiro during the World Cup, you are in for a treat. Even if you're not into football (soccer), the atmosphere is not to be missed. Brazilians create some of the best crowds in the world. They cheer, sing, support their team from start to finish, and are genuinely fun to be around. The energy during a World Cup match is something special, whether you're watching with locals at a neighbourhood bar or in the middle of a packed street party. If you're wondering where the best places are to watch World Cup matches, the answer is: almost anywhere. Bars, restaurants, event spaces, and even many public areas will be showing the games. If you're after a good vibe, you can choose between watching at a bar for a more relaxed, sit down experience, or joining one of the many parties and events that will incorporate watching the games into their regular events. Save this post - it will be updated with game schedules & venues throughout the event! Skip to: Brazil's Group C Schedule Bars showing specific matches Friday 19/06 Saturday 13/06 More coming... Follow this post for updates throughout the series Bars showing the World Cup in Copacabana Bars showing the World Cup in Centro & other areas Bars showing the World Cup in Barra da Tijuca Brazil's Group C Schedule (local time in Rio) Saturday 13 June 19:00 Brazil vs Morocco Friday 19 June 22:00 Brazil vs Haiti Wednesday 24 June 19:00 Scotland vs Brazil Where to watch World Cup Games in Rio de Janeiro This schedule will be updated for future matches as venues release their event schedules. Schedule for Friday 19/06 15:00 | Casa Cazé TV | Pier Mauá 16:00 | Village Superbet | Jockey Club 16:00 | Arena Copa | Praia de Copacabana 16:00 | Porco Amigo Fan Fest | Sambotica, Praça Mauro Duarte, Botafogo 17:00 | Baródromo na Copa | Rua Dona Zulmira 41 17:00 | Brasil na Copa e Mãe no Copo: Pagode do Compasso do Tempo | Mãe Joana, Botafogo 17:00 | Energia pra Torcer: Thiaguinho | Caminho Niemeyer 17:00 | Samba + Transmissão do Jogo | Jurema Bar 17:00 | Arena Passeio | Passeio Público 17:00 | Arena Senado | Rua do Senado 1 17:00 | Alzirão | Rua Alzira Brandão 18:00 | Samba Leve | Mureta da Lapa 18:00 | Golearte com Summer Eletro Bloco | Circo Voador 18:00 | Base da Copa | Base do Samba 19:00 | Copa Que Elas Querem com Samba Que Elas Querem | Beco da Cultura 19:00 | Jogos no Labuta | Labuta Bar, Rua do Senado 19:00 | Grupo Nó na Madeira + Galocantô | Beco do Rato 19:00 | Dia de Jogo é na Cozinha | Cozinha da Lapa 19:00 | Arena Itanhangá | Ilha Itanhangá 19:00 | Baile da Paixão | Espaço Luiz Gama, Rua da Constituição 54 19:00 | Parque Bondinho Arena Fest: Bloco das Gaúchas | Parque Bondinho 20:00 | Vinil na Calçada: Daniel Cairoli + Jogo do Brasil | Prainha Discos Schedule for Saturday 13/06 10:00 | Casa Cazé TV | Pier Mauá 12:00 | Copa do Baródromo | Rua Dona Zulmira 41 12:00 | Brasil na Copa e Mãe no Copo | Mãe Joana, Botafogo 12:00 | Telão e Samba | Largo da Prainha 13:00 | Village Superbet | Jockey Club 14:00 | Arena Senado | Rua do Senado 1 14:00 | Arena Cardosão com Sambotica e Sinfônica Ambulante | Quadra do Cardosão 14:00 | Feijuca com Samba | Jo&Joe, Largo do Boticário 15:00 | Baile da Lua: Arraiá na Copa | Bar Que Beleza, Rua da Relação 55 15:00 | Porco Amigo Fan Fest | Praça Mauro Duarte 15:00 | Arena Itanhangá | Ilha Itanhangá 15:00 | Energia pra Torcer + Ludmilla | Caminho Niemeyer 15:00 | Samba do Sacramento + Cabra Guaraná + Xepa + Transmissão do Jogo | Destilaria Maravilha 16:00 | Morro de Torcer | Mirante do Arvrão 16:00 | Copa no Telão: DJ Jales | Pavilhão Lapa 16:00 | Canela de Velho | Casa Savana 16:00 | Colher de Pau | Mureta da Lapa 16:00 | Se Essa Rua Fosse Copa com Pagode Pop | Beco da Cultura 16:00 | Arena Copa | Praia de Copacabana 16:00 | Arena LadoB | Quadra do Guararapes 16:00 | Base da Copa | Base do Samba, Praça da Bandeira 17:00 | De Sainha: Baile da Dabren Especial Copa do Mundo | Mauacvba, Praça XV 17:00 | Samba + Transmissão do Jogo | Jurema Bar 17:00 | Arena Passeio: Arruda + Pagode do Maui + Roda do Passeio | Passeio Público 18:00 | Golearte com Bloco Marimbondo Não Respeita + DJ Lencinho + Digital Mandinga | Circo Voador 18:00 | Samba dos Guimarães com Convidados | Largo dos Guimarães 19:00 | Jogos no Labuta | Labuta Bar, Rua do Senado 19:00 | Jogo do Br: DJ Laryh com Especial Sade | Discotecagem Prainha Discos 19:00 | Arlindinho das Antigas com Transmissão do Jogo | Beco do Rato 20:00 | Tamborzão Nights | Espaço Luiz Gama 22:00 | RnBaile | Casa Savana Bars that will show World Cup Games Aside from these specific events that have been scheduled so far, if you are looking for a bar to watch the games, the bars below will consistently show Brazil's matches. Where to watch the World Cup in Copacabana 📍 Fan Zone Oficial da Copa Orla de Copacabana – Posto 4 – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro – RJ 📍 Arena Copacabana Avenida Atlântica – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro – RJ 📍 Os Imortais Bar Rua Ronald de Carvalho, 147 – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro – RJ 📍 Caju Gastrobar Praça Demétrio Ribeiro, 97, Loja C – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro – RJ 📍 Praia Skol – Copacabana Av. Atlântica, Quiosques 27 e 28 – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro – RJ 📍 Boteco Belmonte Rua Domingos Ferreira, 242 – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro – RJ 📍 Espetto Carioca Av. Atlântica – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro – RJ 📍 Real Chopp Rua Barata Ribeiro, 319 – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro – RJ 📍 Bossa Rio Rua Domingos Ferreira, 215 – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro – RJ 📍 Pavão Azul Bar Rua Hilário de Gouveia, 71 – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro – RJ 📍 Boteco Rios Copacabana Rua Bolívar, 8 – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro – RJ Where to watch the World Cup in Centro & other areas 📍 Casa CazéTV Pier Mauá – Praça Mauá – Centro, Rio de Janeiro – RJ 📍 Baródromo Rua Dona Zulmira, 41 – Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro – RJ 📍 Village Superbet Jockey Club Brasileiro – Praça Santos Dumont, 31 – Gávea, Rio de Janeiro – RJ 📍 Buxixo Choperia Av. Maracanã, 760 – Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro – RJ Where to watch the World Cup in Barra da Tijuca 📍 Boteco Colinda Arena Show New York City Center – Av. das Américas, 5000 – Barra da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro – RJ 📍Arena Uptown Uptown Barra Av. Ayrton Senna, 5500 - Barra da Tijuca

If you want a Friday night that feels local, one of my favourite free Forro events in Rio de Janeiro is held each Friday in the neighbourhood of Laranjeiras. Every Friday, Praça São Salvador fills up with live forró, dancing, and a crowd that is mostly Brazilian with a handful of foreigners. The vibe is welcoming, wholesome, and attracts people of all ages. About the Friday night forro in Laranjeiras, Rio de Janeiro 💃🕺 📍 Praça São Salvador, Laranjeiras 🕕 Free dance class from around 6:30pm in Brazilian time 🎵 Live forró band from around 8pm to 10pm 💰 Free entry, donation only Free Forro dance class for beginners There is a free beginner's forro dance class before the band starts. Officially it begins at 6pm, which in Brazil means closer to 6:30pm. The class is open to everyone and is a good way to learn the basics before the dancing starts. What to expect at the Forro After the class, a live band plays from around 8pm until 10pm, with plenty of space for dancing in the square. If you're a woman, you can usually just stand around the edge of the square and someone will likely ask you to dance. If you're a man, you'll need to do the asking. The event itself is free, although donations for the band are appreciated. One of the great parts of this event is the casual outdoor location. Praça São Salvador is surrounded by botecos, so it's easy to grab dinner or a few drinks before or after. Inside the square you'll also find plenty of vendors selling snacks, caipirinhas, craft beer, and other drinks. Because it finishes relatively early, it's also a great way to start a Friday night before heading somewhere else afterwards. Want to learn more about Forro dancing? See my post: What is Forro? Traditional music and dance from Brazil More resources for planning your trip to Brazil

Rio de Janeiro itself a city full of things to do. Nevertheless, if you live in Rio or are visiting for a longer trip, you may start itching for a weekend getaway. Like Rio itself, the surrounding area has countless opportunities for adventure, from mountain ranges to beaches, to delightful historic towns. Along the coast, areas like Região dos Lagos and Ilha Grande are perfect for boat trips, snorkelling, and beach hopping. Inland, mountain regions such as Visconde de Mauá and Nova Friburgo are perfect for this craving rivers, waterfalls, and walking trails. There are also towns like Paraty and Petrópolis where you can combine historic sites with some time outdoors. Top 10 trips from Rio de Janeiro to do this weekend These are my personal top 10 weekend trips from Rio de Janeiro. 1. Itatiaia National Park and Penedo Distance from Rio de Janeiro: ~170 to 200 km Travel time: ~2.5 to 3 hours Itatiaia National Park is Brazil’s first national park, created in 1937, and is divided into two main areas with different landscapes. The lower section has forest trails, rivers, and waterfalls such as Véu da Noiva, where you can walk short distances and swim in natural pools. The upper section is higher in altitude and more exposed, with rocky terrain and peaks like Agulhas Negras, one of the highest points in the state, which requires guided climbing or hiking depending on the route. A short drive away, Penedo provides a base with restaurants, small shops, and accommodation, along with easy access to additional waterfalls such as Cachoeira de Deus and Três Bacias. 2. Petrópolis Distance from Rio de Janeiro: ~70 km Travel time: ~1 to 1.5 hours Petrópolis is a mountain city developed as the summer residence of the Brazilian imperial family, and many of its main sites are linked to that period. The Imperial Museum, housed in the former palace of Dom Pedro II, displays furniture, documents, and the imperial crown within landscaped grounds. Nearby, the Cathedral of Saint Peter of Alcantara contains the tombs of the imperial family, and the Quitandinha Palace is a large historic building originally constructed as a casino hotel. Over a weekend, you can also visit Casa de Santos Dumont, the former residence of the aviation pioneer, and explore parts of Serra dos Órgãos National Park nearby for short hikes. 3. Região dos Lagos (Arraial do Cabo, Cabo Frio, Búzios) Distance from Rio de Janeiro: ~160 to 190 km Travel time: ~2.5 to 3.5 hours The Região dos Lagos is a coastal area is known for its clear turqoise water, sand dune, and a diversity of beaches with different conditions. In Arraial do Cabo, the focus is on boat trips that stop at beaches like Praia do Farol and Prainhas do Pontal do Atalaia, where water visibility is high and suitable for snorkelling. Cabo Frio has long, accessible beaches such as Praia do Forte, backed by dunes and stronger wind. In Armação dos Búzios, you'll find multiple smaller beaches like João Fernandes and Geribá. Buzios is the more popular choice for those looking for lively nightlife and restaurants. 4. Itatiaia National Park and Penedo Distance from Rio de Janeiro: ~170 to 200 km Travel time: ~2.5 to 3 hours Itatiaia National Park is Brazil’s first national park, created in 1937, and is divided into two main areas with different landscapes. The lower section has forest trails, rivers, and waterfalls such as Véu da Noiva, where you can walk short distances and swim in natural pools. The upper section is higher in altitude and more exposed, with rocky terrain and peaks like Agulhas Negras, one of the highest points in the state, which requires guided climbing or hiking depending on the route. A short drive away, Penedo provides a base with restaurants, small shops, and accommodation, along with easy access to additional waterfalls such as Cachoeira de Deus and Três Bacias. 5. Conservatória Distance from Rio de Janeiro: ~140 km Travel time: ~2.5 to 3 hours Conservatória is a small inland town known for its association with Brazilian serenade music. The main activity is walking through the town centre, where houses display plaques with song lyrics and historical references to composers and performers. In the evenings, organised serenades take place, with musicians moving through the streets and stopping at specific locations to perform. During the day, you can visit small museums such as the Museu da Seresta, which documents the history of this musical tradition, or explore nearby farms and rural areas. The town has a compact layout with guesthouses, restaurants, and cafés concentrated around the centre. A weekend visit allows time to experience both the daytime setting and the evening performances, which are the main draw. 6. Vassouras (Vale do Café) Distance from Rio de Janeiro: ~120 km Travel time: ~2 to 2.5 hours Vassouras is part of the Vale do Café, a region that was central to Brazil’s coffee production in the 19th century. The main activity is visiting preserved estates, known as fazendas, where you can tour original buildings, see period furniture, and learn how coffee was produced and transported during the imperial era. Some estates offer guided visits that include demonstrations and meals based on traditional recipes. In the town centre, Praça Barão de Campo Belo and surrounding streets include colonial buildings, small museums, and churches linked to the same period. The landscape around Vassouras is made up of rolling hills and former plantation land, which can be seen while moving between estates. 7. Ilha Grande Distance from Rio de Janeiro: ~150 km to Angra + boat transfer Travel time: ~2.5 to 3 hours drive + 30 to 90 minutes by boat Ilha Grande is a car free island covered by Atlantic Forest, where movement is by foot or boat between beaches. Most visitors stay in Vila do Abraão, which acts as a base for boat trips and trail access. You can hike to beaches such as Lopes Mendes, known for its long stretch of sand and strong surf, or follow shorter trails to nearby spots like Praia Preta and Cachoeira da Feiticeira, which combines a waterfall with a swimming area. Boat tours circle the island, stopping at multiple beaches and snorkelling points with clear water. Alternatively, stay in Angra dos Reis, where tour operators run island hopping trips through the surrounding bay, which contains over 300 islands. 8. Nova Friburgo Distance from Rio de Janeiro: ~140 km Travel time: ~2.5 to 3 hours Nova Friburgo is set in the Serra do Mar and provides access to mountain terrain, forest trails, and elevated viewpoints. One of the main areas to explore is Parque Estadual dos Três Picos, the largest state park in Rio, where you can hike to viewpoints, walk forest trails, and access peaks such as Pico da Caledônia, which has a staircase route leading to panoramic views over the region. Within and around the town, there are rivers and waterfalls, swimming spots, as well as rural farms and local food producers. The town itself has a small centre with markets and restaurants. Camping is well established in the region, especially around areas like Lumiar, São Pedro da Serra, and near Parque Estadual dos Três Picos. There are multiple designated campgrounds with basic infrastructure. Low light pollution makes it a perfect spot to look at the night sky. 9. Visconde de Mauá Distance from Rio de Janeiro: ~280 km Travel time: ~5 to 6 hours Visconde de Mauá is a mountain region near the border with Minas Gerais, made up of small villages such as Maringá and Maromba, with activities centred around rivers and waterfalls. The area sits within the Serra da Mantiqueira and includes parts of Itatiaia National Park, Brazil’s first national park. You can follow short trails to waterfalls like Cachoeira do Escorrega, where smooth rock forms a natural slide into a pool, or walk between multiple falls along the Rio Preto. Many sections of river are accessible directly from the roadside, making it easy to move between swimming spots. The villages have a small number of restaurants and shops. 10. Paraty and Trindade Distance from Rio de Janeiro: ~250 km Travel time: ~4 to 5 hours Paraty is a preserved colonial town where the historic centre is built with stone streets and whitewashed buildings dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. The main activity is exploring the town on foot, visiting churches, small museums, and restaurants set within the old streets. From the waterfront, schooner and speedboat trips run daily, stopping at islands and beaches in the bay where you can swim and snorkel in clear water. A short drive south leads to Trindade, a smaller coastal area with beaches and trails. Here you can walk between Praia do Meio, Praia do Cachadaço, and the natural pool known as Piscina Natural do Cachadaço, which is formed by rocks and accessed via a short trail. Inland from Paraty, there are also waterfalls and cachaça distilleries that offer tours and tastings. Serra da Bocaina National Park Distance from Rio de Janeiro: ~220 to 270 km (access varies) Travel time: ~4 to 5 hours Serra da Bocaina National Park is a large protected area covering mountains, forest, and sections of historic routes between the coast and inland regions. The park includes parts of the old Gold Trail (Caminho do Ouro), a route used during the colonial period to transport goods between Paraty and inland areas. You can hike sections of this trail through forest, crossing stone paths, rivers, and historic infrastructure. The park is also known for waterfalls such as Cachoeira de Santo Izidro, which has a high drop and designated swimming areas below. Access points are spread out and often reached via dirt roads, with some areas requiring a guide or local transport. Over a weekend, the focus is on longer hikes, visiting waterfalls, and moving through less developed parts of the Atlantic Forest rather than staying in a single town. Visconde de Mauá Distance from Rio de Janeiro: ~280 km Travel time: ~5 to 6 hours Visconde de Mauá is a mountain region near the border with Minas Gerais, made up of small villages such as Maringá and Maromba. The area sits within the Serra da Mantiqueira and includes parts of Itatiaia National Park, Brazil’s first national park. You can follow short trails to waterfalls like Cachoeira do Escorrega, where smooth rock forms a natural slide into a pool, or walk between multiple falls along the Rio Preto. Many sections of river are accessible directly from the roadside, making it easy to move between swimming spots. The villages have a small number of restaurants and shops, and are connected by short drives or walking paths. More resources for planning your trip to Brazil