Rio de Janeiro, Brazil » City Info

Rio is the second largest city in Brazil and the state capital of Rio de Janeiro. The city is best known for its beaches, carnivals, football, music and its well preserved tropical forests.

Commonly known just as Rio and once a Portuguese colony, it was also the capital of Brazil for nearly two centuries during the 1800s. Brasilia became the capital in 1960 when Brazil achieved independence. Tourists mainly get attracted to Rio not just because of it musical diversity and beaches but also because of its flora and fauna.

The world’s two largest forests are in Rio, surrounded by the most amazing beaches and mountains forming the most breathtaking landscapes.

Recently, the statue of Christ Redeemer was amongst the Seven Wonders of the World.


Rio also boasts some of the world's largest football stadiums and as soccer is Brazil’s national sport, wherever there is an open space you will constantly see children and youngsters playing their favourite game.

Rio is also well known for its vibrant night life, housing some of the best clubs and bars in the city.

Two of the best beaches on earth, Ipanema and Copacabana, are in Rio and the white sands and blue waters draw a lot of attention from surfers, water sports lovers and other tourists who just want to just enjoy a pleasant sun bathe.

Art and culture unite together and on display is Rio and Brazil’s history exhibited in the museums and galleries.

Shopping can be done in plenty as the ranges of prices vary from expensive designer items to buying knick-knacks and souvenirs in the city centrum at a bargain. The same applies to restaurants where one can taste all kinds of cuisines including local and Brazilian food and that too at an affordable price.

The carnivals of Brazil are the most awaited among visitors, the dancing, music and enjoyment that comes along with the festivities makes a worthy stay. 'Carnaval' and 'Reveillon' - New Year's Eve, are renowned to be the most spectacular festivals in the world.

There is usually any excuse for a party in Rio, whether it is for a weekend Samba party, random music jams in the streets, or festivities at soccer matches, there is always a time and a place to join a celebration in this colourful city.

One of the densest cities in the world where rainforests and the seas come together, Rio is a city which one will surely fall in love with for its food, music, entertainment, art, culture and its beautiful outdoors.

CountryBrazil / Brasil
CityBrasília
StateRio de Janeiro
CapitalBrasilia
Area
  • Municipality: 1,260 km² (486.5 sq mi)
Population
  • Municipality: 6,093,472
  • Metro: 10,556,000
  • Density: 4,781/km² (12,382.7/sq mi)
Time ZoneBST (UTC-3) Summer: BDT (UTC-2)
Official languagePortuguese