Corcovado mountain
Take the cable car up to Corcovado mountain to The Christ the Redeemer statue — one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Once you arrive at the foot of the statue, gaze down at the city and take in the neighborhoods that make up the Zona Sul and out to Guanabara Bay. Try to go early and choose a day with clear weather.
Escadaria Selarón
These colorful 215 steps reside in Rio’s Lapa neighborhood. In 1990, an artist started decorating the staircase outside his home using scavenged tiles. In the years since, it has grown to over 2,000 tiles. While in Lapa, you can also explore hip coffee shops, thrift stores, and lively nightclubs.
Grumari Beach
Head where the locals go on the western shore of Rio. Although it’s about an hour’s drive, Grumari is what some call the city’s most secret beach. The unspoiled nature reserve includes nearly two miles of white and red sand. You’ll want to bring your own food and drink, since there aren’t any restaurants or shops here.