The city of Rio is the greatest attraction in the country and one of the most popular destinations for people from all parts of the world. The first thing you notice upon arrival in Rio de Janeiro is the friendly reception and the locals enjoyable way of living; the contrast of the old colonial architecture with the flashy modern buildings, and the tropical rainforest extending down to the sea, makes Rio one of the most beautiful sights to see. Known as the “Wonderful City”, Rio de Janeiro offers attractions that have given the city its international fame.

Besides the millions of visitors that thrive on the landscapes and natural beauty, the wide range of culture and history offered by this Brazilian city, Rio has attracted a different type of tourists in the past few years, which is the business tourists. The capital of the State of Rio de Janeiro is also one of the greatest business centers in Brazil, constantly chosen to host important local and international conferences, congresses, and meetings. Rio is definitely a jack of all trades city.

Who has never heard about the Carnival in Rio, the most amazing and popular party in the world? Or about the Sugar Loaf Mountain and the statue of Christ the Redeemer? Or how about the beautiful beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana that have inspired musicians from all over the world? And who can forget the Tijuca National Park, the largest urban natural preservation area in the Country? Rio de Janeiro, is all that and much more. The Wonderful City has also a wide range of other attractions to offer, such as cultural centers, numerous museums, and churches.

Since the city’s weather is pleasant and hot throughout the year, Rio does not depend on seasons to attract visitors. Its attractions can be appreciated any time. Whoever visits Rio soon finds out that their schedule is always full – which is the pride for the local population. There is always something to be done in the city, from exhibitions, theatre plays, dance and music shows, to sports events for all tastes – such as free flying, much appreciated by all those who enjoy strong sensations, a hang glider floating above the beautiful and famous landscapes.

Rio is a big and complex city, and can be hard to navigate for first time visitors. Getting lost is part of the experience, but moving around is fairly easy with the metro. The metro system works well in the city, and the cheapest and easiest way to move around is to invest in a metro card. Finding the right place on the first shot is not always the case, but gives you a chance to see parts of the city you would not explore otherwise.

Rio truly keeps you busy, the city will always provide you with something to do whether you like hiking, beaches or exploring other vibrant parts of the city. Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, Copacabana and Ipanema beaches are all well known tourist attractions in Rio. The city offers a lot of choices when it comes to sightseeing, nature and culture. For splendid sights of the city and a good workout hike the Morro Dois Irmãos or Morro da Ursula.

When the daily amount of sports are covered with hiking, heading to the beach for relaxation is always a good idea. Rio offers you a variety of beaches where to enjoy the sun, sea and Brazilian music. When the beaches do not inspire you anymore, you can head to the Jardim Botanico, Botanical Garden, which will blow your mind with its 8000 species, of which 140 are birds. Or visit the Rodrigo de Freitas Lake, which can be explored with paddle boats, canoeing or by biking around the lake.

After a good deal of nature it is good to discover the feel of the streets in Rio. The Santa Teresa neighbourhood is known for its bohemian feel, narrow streets and boutique shops. A perfect place to find that souvenir to take home with you. Not far from Santa Teresa are the colourful Escadaria Selarón, Selarón steps. A colourful must-see with 250 steps that are covered with different tiles all the way. If seeing a completely different side of Rio is in order, head for a Favela tour.

When it comes to culture Rio does not let anyone down. Theatro Municipal do Rio de Janeiro, Fortaleza de São João and the Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil are all worth the visit. The Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil is a perfect stop for a rainy day, with its ever changing art and history exhibits and a cinema. Football is what Brazilians live for, so taking a detour from the museums to the biggest and most famous stadium, Maracenâ, is truly an experience. If you have a chance, catch a game, and truly enjoy the Brazilian football frenzy.

Rio’s weather could be described as hot and sweaty, with a warm atmosphere year round that turns hot in the summer. December to March the humidity is high and the temperature can reach 40°C (104°F), but stays more commonly around 30°C (86°F). The night temperatures in the summer drop to a more comfortable 25°C (77°F). The summer in Rio is considered extremely rainy, with about 12-15 rainy days per month, which means carrying an umbrella everywhere you go.

If the heat, moist and rain is not for you, the winter, June to September, is a more pleasant time to visit Rio de Janeiro. The winter temperatures are still warm, with the daily high being 24°C (75°F) and the nights dropping to 18°C (64°F). The winter is less humid and has an average of 6 rainy days per month, which makes it a perfect time to visit Rio. Spring, April to May, and autumn, October to November, are gently warm and humid, with a possibility of sudden changes in the weather.