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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 pick of the bunch in Ipanema for a midrange option with a great location, this stylish little property was renovated in 2016 by renowned architect Bel Lobo and now combines elegant, breezy design and a vibrant restaurant serving contemporary Brazilian food with comfortable rooms. Thoughtful touches for guests include beach towels, deck chairs, and sun umbrellas to save you from renting your own.
One of the stars of Copacabana's midrange hotels, this beachfront property combines beautiful rooms—all have balconies with sea views—with a great rooftop pool and charming, attentive staff. The distinctive black- and red-fronted hotel is Swiss-owned, and the tidy and modern Scandinavian design (aka crisp white decor) is one of its best assets, as are the views across the bay and of the Corcovado and the Christ statue.
In the heart of Ipanema's shopping and dining district, a block from the beach, this hotel has standard accommodations and in-room amenities but a great rooftop view—a postcard shot of Corcovado and the lagoon. Breakfast is served on the alfresco terrace, which doubles as a sushi restaurant after dark and the bar in the ground-floor lobby serves light meals and nibbles.
The excellent location in front of Copacabana Beach is this hotel's main draw. The rooms are clean and reasonably tasteful, and some have been recently refurbished. The rooftop pool is popular with families, the buffet breakfast is generous and varied, the staff are friendly and efficient, and the hotel is within easy reach of the metro and Ipanema.
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.
Lagune Barra hotel is located in the heart of Barra da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro—a perfect blend of comfort and functionality for both leisure and business travelers. With 306 thoughtfully designed rooms, the hotel provides a welcoming retreat for a restful stay. Its architectural project was designed by the renowned French architect Jean Michel Wilmotte, ensuring a contemporary and elegant atmosphere in all spaces. In addition, furniures signed by designers Paulo Alves and Fernando Jaeger provide a touch of sophistication and unique style. The hotel features three unique tile mosaics made by the MUDA collective, adding an artistic and local dimension to the hotel. After a productive day, unwind at wellness facilities, featuring a gym, steam room and sauna, or take a refreshing dip in the inviting swimming pool. Indulge your taste buds at Brisa Restô, the signature restaurant offering a delightful menu of authentic Brazilian dishes. For a more casual atmosphere, Le Lagune Bar at the hotel lobby is the perfect spot to enjoy handcrafted cocktails.
With a prime beachfront location, this classic Copacabana hotel underwent a complete face-lift and is now one of the neighborhood's best hotels. Rooms come with modern appliances such as iPod docks, HDTV, Wi-Fi, and Nespresso coffeemakers, and the bar at the rooftop infinity pool has glorious views over Copacabana and Sugarloaf.
This well-located hotel offers friendly service, a solid breakfast, and a good location opposite Copacabana Beach. Excellent restaurants, shopping, and nightlife in Copacabana are all within walking distance.
Each of the spacious and comfortable rooms in this mammoth hotel has a balcony overlooking Barra Beach, while facilities include a large heated pool, tennis courts, and a fitness center. While a long way from Rio's most famous attractions (public transportation makes it feel much closer), one of the highlights of staying in this neighborhood is proximity to Barra's substantial golden beach.
For those who no longer feel comfortable sharing a room with strangers but would like to meet other travelers, the Socialtel chain offers a relaxed atmosphere in its facilities, overlooking Copacabana beach. There are single, double, or family accommodations with bathroom, and there is the possibility of exchanging experiences with other travelers in the movie theater or in the hotel's communal kitchen. The accommodation also offers suggestions for guided group or private tours, events in the city, and other attractions.
This beachfront hotel may have been built in the 1950s, but its look is sleek and contemporary—from the sparkling marble lobby to the guest room closets paneled in gleaming Brazilian redwood. There's a pool with lovely views out to sea, as well as beach service that includes towels, chairs, and parasols.
One of the few solid hotel choices right in Centro, the Windsor Guanabara has reasonably sized and tastefully appointed rooms (although some are beginning to show signs of age), and the contemporary rooftop pool area—with white tiles, white trellises, and white patio furnishings—offers a welcome escape from the city swelter and stunning views of Guanabara Bay. The buffet breakfast is good, too, although the evening buffet served in the restaurant is a little steep. The hotel is a popular choice with business executives.
With a prime location overlooking Botafogo beach and Sugarloaf Mountain, this well-run hotel has become a favorite since opening in 2016. While the trendy design, funky colors, and a street-art-lined elevator give it a youthful edge, the reliable service, rooftop pool, excellent restaurant, and proximity to downtown have cemented it as a favorite for travelers looking for a location close to the financial heart of town yet still within reach of Rio’s spectacular sites. Recently was integrated into the Hilton Tapestry Collection.
