Top 5 Things to Do in Rio de Janeiro in 2025
October 13, 2025
Pontis Tour
8 min read
Rio de Janeiro is one of the world's most iconic cities, known for its stunning beaches, imposing mountains, and vibrant culture. If you're planning to visit the Marvelous City in 2025, here are 5 experiences you absolutely cannot miss!
1. Christ the Redeemer - One of the Wonders of the World
Christ the Redeemer is not only Rio's most famous postcard but one of the Seven New Wonders of the World. Located atop Corcovado Mountain at 710 meters altitude, this impressive 38-meter-tall statue offers 360-degree panoramic views of the city. The experience of visiting Christ is truly magical. Upon reaching the top, you'll be greeted by breathtaking views of Guanabara Bay, Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, and the Tijuca Forest. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when there are fewer tourists and the light is perfect for photographs. Tip: Book your tickets online in advance to avoid queues and consider taking the train ride through Tijuca National Park, a unique experience through the world's largest urban forest.
2. Sugarloaf Mountain - Unforgettable Views
Sugarloaf Mountain is another unmistakable icon of Rio de Janeiro. This 396-meter-high granite peak offers some of the most spectacular views of the city. The experience begins with a cable car ride that leaves from Red Beach, passes through Urca Hill, and reaches the top of Sugarloaf. From the top, you'll have 360-degree views of the city, including Christ the Redeemer, Guanabara Bay, Copacabana, and nearby islands. The sunset from Sugarloaf is considered one of the most beautiful in the world, when the sky fills with orange and pink tones. Fun fact: The name 'Sugarloaf' comes from the mountain's shape, which resembles the sugar loaves (refined sugar blocks) that were produced in colonial Brazil. Extra Tip from Pontis Tour: For an even more special perspective, take a boat tour around Guanabara Bay and see Sugarloaf from the sea! Our nautical tours offer unique and photographic angles of this postcard.
3. Copacabana and Ipanema Beaches - The Heart of Rio
When you think of Rio, its world-famous beaches immediately come to mind. Copacabana and Ipanema are more than just beaches - they are true cultural and social centers of the city. Copacabana: With its 4 km extension and boardwalk with black and white wave pattern, Copacabana is Brazil's most famous beach. It's the perfect place to observe carioca life in action - footvolley games, street vendors, and the famous cold 'mate' tea. Don't miss walking the boardwalk at sunrise or sunset. Ipanema: Made immortal by the song 'The Girl from Ipanema,' this beach is known for its natural beauty and more sophisticated atmosphere. The beach is divided into 'postos' (lifeguard stations), each with its own vibe. Posto 9 is frequented by artists and intellectuals, while Posto 8 is more family-oriented. Insider Tip: Arpoador, located between Copacabana and Ipanema, is the best place to watch the sunset in Rio. Locals and tourists gather there every afternoon to applaud the sun as it disappears behind the mountains.
4. Selarón Steps - Art and Culture
The Selarón Steps are a unique public art installation and one of Rio's most photographed spots. This 250-step staircase connects the Lapa and Santa Teresa neighborhoods and is completely decorated with more than 2,000 colorful tiles from over 60 countries. The work was created by Chilean artist Jorge Selarón, who began the project in 1990 as a 'tribute to the Brazilian people.' Selarón worked on this staircase until his death in 2013, constantly adding and modifying the tiles. The tiles are predominantly in the colors of the Brazilian flag - green, yellow, and blue. The Lapa neighborhood around it is known for its vibrant nightlife, with many samba bars and concert venues. Consider combining your visit to the Staircase with a samba night in Lapa on weekends. Tip: Visit during the day to appreciate the vibrant colors of the tiles and take your photos before 10am or after 4pm to avoid crowds.
5. Botanical Garden - Nature in the Heart of the City
Rio de Janeiro's Botanical Garden is an oasis of tranquility and natural beauty in the middle of the city. Founded in 1808 by Dom João VI, this historic garden houses more than 6,500 species of Brazilian and foreign plants. The highlight is the Imperial Palm Avenue - two rows of majestic royal palm trees reaching up to 40 meters high, creating a natural green cathedral. The garden also features lakes with giant water lilies, an orchid house with more than 2,000 species of orchids, and shaded spaces perfect for picnics. Beyond the flora, the Botanical Garden is home to various animal species, including marmosets, toucans, and butterflies. It's the perfect place to escape the heat and fast pace of the city. Nearby: Combine your visit to the Botanical Garden with Parque Lage, which is just minutes away. Parque Lage has a beautiful historic mansion with a café in the inner courtyard and trails leading to Corcovado. Tip: The garden is especially beautiful after rain, when the plants are greener and the air fresher.
Conclusion
These five experiences capture the essence of Rio de Janeiro - from its natural wonders to its rich culture and history. Each offers a unique perspective of the Marvelous City and together create memories that will last a lifetime. And to make your Rio experience even more special, don't forget to include a nautical tour of Guanabara Bay! Seeing Rio de Janeiro from the sea offers a completely different and unforgettable perspective of the city, with privileged views of Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf, and the city skyline.