3 Best Hotels in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

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Lodgings in Rio de Janeiro are among the most expensive in the world, though the price-to-quality ratio often disappoints. That said, there are some wonderful accommodation options in all price ranges if you know where to look. Copacabana and Ipanema are awash with lodgings and are the best bet for sun seekers, but expect to get more bang for your buck the farther you travel from the famous beaches. Leafy Santa Teresa contains many charming guesthouses and chic boutique hotels, while Centro, Flamengo, and Botafogo have solid options for business travelers. Note that "motels" are not aimed at tourists. They attract couples looking for privacy and usually rent by the hour.

Expect to pay a premium for a room with a view. Most hotels include breakfast in the rate, and Brazilian breakfasts are usually a lavish affair involving everything from fresh fruit and juices to cakes, cold meats, and cheeses. If you're traveling during peak periods—from December to March—make reservations as far ahead of your visit as possible.

THE BEST HOTEL IN RIO DE JANEIRO

Hotel Santa Teresa Rio MGallery by Sofitel

$$$$ | Rua Almirante Alexandrino 660, Rio de Janeiro, 20241–260, Brazil
Fodor's Choice
Hotel Santa Teresa, Santa Teresa
Courtesy of Hotel Santa Teresa

FODOR’S EXPERT REVIEW

This five-star hotel, located in the historic hilltop neighborhood of Santa Teresa, is housed in a regenerated coffee plantation mansion that pays homage to Brazil's cultures and traditions with folk art and handicrafts from across the nation; the location is an ideal area for travelers keen to discover Rio's artistic side. The use of fresh white linens and bamboo and other natural materials extends the rustic-chic motif into the spacious rooms and suites, which feature state-of-the-art amenities such as LCD televisions, super-king-size beds, 300-thread-count cotton sheets, and marble bathtubs; some rooms have verandas. The hotel offers activities for guests, related to the hotel story, like coffee tasting, or related to the neighborhood story, like a guided tour.

Pros

  • Activities for guests
  • Fabulous jungle pool
  • Close to Santa Teresa's drinking and dining scene

Cons

  • It's a cab ride to the beach
  • Hotel bar sometimes closed for private events
  • Limited access by public transportation
Rua Almirante Alexandrino 660, Rio de Janeiro, 20241–260, Brazil
21-3380–0204
Hotel Details
43 rooms
No Meals

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THE BEST HOTEL IN RIO DE JANEIRO

Hilton Copacabana

$$$$ | Av. Atlântica 1020, Rio de Janeiro, 22010000, Brazil

FODOR’S EXPERT REVIEW

With 360° views from the tallest building on Copacabana Beach, since 2017 the Hilton Copacabana has been one of the largest Hilton properties in the region and the company's 100th hotel in Latin America. The hotel offers comfort, versatility, and an unforgettable experience for guests and pets who want to experience the Rio lifestyle. Most of the rooms have sea views, and the hotel offers two outdoor pools, beach service, the Anna Pegova spa, 24-hour gym, restaurants, and a rooftop with views of the city's main tourist attractions.

Pros

  • Rooftop view to all Copacabana beach
  • Walking distance to a quieter beach
  • Notable breakfast

Cons

  • Not walking distance to subway
  • Can be noisy
  • Rooms are slightly dated
Av. Atlântica 1020, Rio de Janeiro, 22010000, Brazil
21-3501--8000
Hotel Details
545 rooms
No Meals

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Hilton Barra

$$$ | Av. Embaixador Abelardo Bueno 1430, Rio de Janeiro, 22775040, Brazil

Contemporary and comfortable, the Hilton Barra began operations in 2014, becoming the first property of the chain in Rio de Janeiro and the second in Brazil. It boasts a privileged location in Barra da Tijuca, just steps away from the Metropolitano Shopping Mall and the city's main concert and event venues, such as the Olympic Park and Riocentro, while being only ten minutes from the region's beaches. The hotel's identity combines architecture and sustainability, featuring artwork by renowned Brazilian artists like Roberto Burle Marx, and implementing measures that contribute to water and energy conservation. Guests and their pets have access to 298 rooms, a rooftop infinity pool, bars, a restaurant, a fitness center, and 1,300 m² of flexible meeting space, including ten rooms for small gatherings and two ballrooms, with a total capacity of up to 950 guests. Hilton Barra also offers services such as day use and special packages for weddings, romantic getaways, and pajama parties.

Pros

  • Close to Olympic Park
  • Ballroom for events up to 950 guests
  • Wedding packages

Cons

  • Not a beachfront location
  • Away from main tourist attractions
  • Delays on room service
Av. Embaixador Abelardo Bueno 1430, Rio de Janeiro, 22775040, Brazil
Hotel Details
298 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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