5 Spots for Breathtaking Views of Rio

Rio de Janeiro, sprawling around Guanabara Bay, is renowned for its stunning panoramas, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. We«ve selected five spots that offer the most impressive views of this Brazilian metropolis.

1. Mount Corcovado

The classic attraction is Mount Corcovado in Tijuca National Park. At a height of 710 meters (2,329 ft), one of the New Seven Wonders of the World — the Christ the Redeemer statue — stands here. Clouds often drift below the viewing platform, creating the sensation that you are hovering over the city. Downsides: there are always many tourists, and the statue itself cannot be included in the frame when shooting a panorama.

2. Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar)

Many travelers believe that the most beautiful panorama of Rio opens up from this mountain, and some call the view one of the best in the world. A two-stage funicular leads first to Urca Mountain, then to the summit of Sugarloaf. The ideal time to visit is before sunset, to see the city light up. At the top, there are shops, a restaurant, and a bar where you can spend the evening. Nearby is one of Rio«s airports, adding dynamism to the landscape.

3. Pedra da Gávea Mountain

This is the choice for extreme sports enthusiasts. The ascent is difficult and takes several hours, but the reward is the best view of the symbol of Ipanema, the Dois Irmãos mountain (Two Brothers). From the summit, you can take photos that make it seem like you«re hovering over Rio. And you can really fly by descending from the mountain on a paraglider.

4. Vidigal Favela

Located on the slope of Dois Irmãos mountain, on the border with the wealthy Leblon district, this favela offers a splendid view of Ipanema, Sugarloaf, and other attractions. Today, Vidigal is one of the most tourist-visited favelas, considered relatively safe. However, crime remains a problem, so it«s worth being cautious during your visit.

5. Niterói City Park

The city of Niterói on the other side of Guanabara Bay is connected to Rio by a bridge over 13 kilometers long. The famous architect Oscar Niemeyer said: «When I was asked about the most beautiful city in the world, I answered: »Rio de Janeiro, and then Niterói, because from there you can look at Rio.«» The best viewing platform is at the top of Niterói City Park (Parque da Cidade). The view is not as famous, but it«s the most comprehensive: from here, you can see the entire Guanabara Bay.