Breathtaking landscapes where lush, emerald mountains dramatically meet the sparkling Atlantic Ocean define the magnetic charm of this vibrant Brazilian city. We’ve handpicked the best hotels in Rio de Janeiro, based on expert recommendations and thousands of genuine guest reviews. All of our recommended hotels have a review rating of at least 4 out of 5 stars.
Best cheap hotel in Rio: B&B Hotels Rio Copacabana Posto 5
Best boutique hotel in Rio: Mama Ruisa Boutique Hotel
Best luxury hotel in Rio: Copacabana Palace Hotel
Best hostel in Rio: Aquarela do Leme
Best eco-friendly hotel in Rio: Vila Galé
Sort list by price, rating or by value for money.
Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro is a masterpiece of Italo-Brazilian sophistication, prominently situated on the Ipanema beachfront. Designed by the renowned French creator Philippe Starck, it was his first project in Brazil. The hotel’s aesthetic is a loving tribute to the Bossa Nova era of the 1950s and 60s, featuring mid-century Brazilian furniture, dark hardwood floors, and whimsical "ear-shaped" mirrors in the guest rooms.
CN Traveler + 5 more“The modern antidote to the Copa Palace’s grand hotel glamour, Philippe Starck’s Brazilian debut— which opened in 2007— has design cred in spades. Somehow the Union Jack flags draped against Argentinian brick walls give the place the swinging feel of Rio’s 1960s hey-day.”
The Belmond Copacabana Palace is a legendary Art Deco landmark that has defined Rio de Janeiro’s glamour since opening in 1923. Designed by French architect Joseph Gire, the hotel was inspired by the grand seaside palaces of the French Riviera, specifically the Negresco in Nice and the Carlton in Cannes. It was built at the request of the Brazilian president to host international guests, quickly becoming the city’s social epicenter.
New York Times + 5 more“A piece of Old World elegance amid the allure — and menace — of Copacabana Beach, the Palace, with 232 rooms, completed an extensive renovation late 2012. It promotes itself as a modern property that still conjures the glamour of the days when Marlene Dietrich and Orson Welles were guests.”
The MGallery Santa Teresa Hotel is a stunning urban retreat tucked away in Rio de Janeiro's most bohemian neighborhood. Housed in a beautifully restored 1850s coffee plantation mansion, the property pays homage to Brazil’s "Golden Era" of coffee and cocoa. Its design is a masterpiece of sustainability and local artistry, featuring reclaimed tropical woods, banana fibers, and burnt cement, all accented by pieces from renowned Brazilian designers like Sergio Rodrigues.
Fodors + 4 more“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.”
Featured as Fodor’s Choice in Rio de Janeiro.
Mama Ruisa Boutique Hotel is a serene, French-owned hideaway tucked away in a 19th-century colonial mansion in the heart of Santa Teresa, Rio de Janeiro’s bohemian hillside district. Once the private residence of Jean Michel Ruis, the mansion has been beautifully preserved and transformed into an intimate retreat, offering a sophisticated contrast to the city's bustling beach life.
New York Times + 1 more“Seven rooms in a 19th-century mansion in the hilltop neighborhood of Santa Teresa give Mama Ruisa a more intimate feel than its bigger neighbor, the Santa Teresa Hotel. Mama Ruisa’s draws include eclectic décor, an elegant outdoor breakfast (around 50 reais), a garden pool and views of Guanabara Bay.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Rio de Janeiro.
The Miramar Hotel by Windsor is a sophisticated, five-star retreat perfectly positioned right on the iconic Copacabana Beach. Reopened in 2013 after a complete transformation, the hotel balances a sleek, modern aesthetic with rich Brazilian influences. Its interior is a showcase of high-end design, featuring elegant touches like Venetian crystal, fine marbles, and a curated collection of authentic Brazilian artwork throughout its 200 rooms.
New York Times + 1 more“Winner of a TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award for 2015, the Miramar has a prime Copacabana beachfront location, walking distance from Ipanema Beach and the subway to get downtown. Though the less expensive rooms don’t face the beach, anyone can take in a panoramic view of Copacabana, including a glimpse of Sugarloaf Mountain, from the rooftop pool and bar.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Rio de Janeiro.
Hotel Emiliano Rio de Janeiro is a masterpiece of modern luxury, situated right on the iconic Copacabana Beach. Designed by renowned architect Arthur Casas, the building is instantly recognizable by its striking white, perforated facade. These clever, foldable shutters aren't just for show; they allow the refreshing sea breeze to circulate naturally while providing guests with complete privacy and beautiful dappled light.
CN Traveler + 1 more“A welcome new opening and pace on Rio’s Zona Sul. It’s more subtle and modern to contrast the go-go party scene of the Fasano, yet without the sometimes stiffness of the Copacabana Palace. It feels young and sophisticated.”
Yoo2, located in the vibrant Botafogo district, is a striking boutique hotel that masterfully blends local Carioca soul with cutting-edge design. Opened in 2016, the property is celebrated for its avant-garde decor, featuring bespoke design elements like custom-made tiles, unique wallpapers, and furniture pieces by renowned designers such as Fernando Jaeger.
New York Times“Halfway between the port area and the South Zone, the funky, Philippe Starck-designed Yoo2 has a prime location for city exploration. The small rooftop pool has great views of the Christ the Redeemer statue in one direction and Botafogo beach in the other.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Rio de Janeiro.
In the artistic heart of Santa Teresa, Casa Beleza is a hidden gem that feels more like a private villa than a standard B&B. This historic building is a classic example of the neighborhood’s colonial-style architecture, originally constructed in the early 20th century. Over the years, it has been meticulously restored to blend its original period charm with modern comforts.
Lonely Planet“This lovely property dates back to the 1930s and was once a governor’s mansion. Tropical gardens overlook the picturesque pool, and you can sometimes spot toucans and monkeys in the surrounding foliage.”
Hotel PortoBay Rio de Janeiro occupies a prime spot right on the iconic Avenida Atlântica, placing you directly in front of the world-famous Copacabana Beach. It is a well-loved destination for travelers who want to be in the heart of the action while enjoying the comfort of a hotel that perfectly balances modern amenities with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
CNN“The Porto Bay Rio gives you a resort-style experience in the heart of beachfront row Avenida Atlantica. The modern, upscale facility pulls out all the stops, from luxurious rooms to fine dining and views up and down the world’s most famous beach.”
Hotel Astoria Ipanema, formerly known as the Mar Ipanema, is a stylish boutique hotel located in the heart of Rio de Janeiro’s famous "Quadrilátero do Charme." Founded in 1987, the property has undergone significant modern renovations in recent years, blending traditional Carioca hospitality with contemporary design. It sits on a prime street, perfectly positioned for those who want to be in the center of the neighborhood's elegant shopping and dining scene.
CNN“This stylish boutique hotel has a primo locale, just five minutes from Ipanema Beach and a few blocks from the Rodrigo Freitas Lagoon. The hippest beach hangouts are minutes away, as are a host of the city’s most happening boutiques, restaurants and bars in one of the safest neighborhoods in Rio.”
Novotel Rio de Janeiro Leme is a sleek, modern hotel located in one of the city's most peaceful and charming neighborhoods. Nestled just one block from the famous sands of Leme Beach, it serves as a sophisticated retreat while remaining perfectly positioned for those who want to be close to the energy of Copacabana.
CNN“It’s a high-volume beach hotel two short blocks from Leme, the least-known beach of the Zona Sul. But the view from its rooftop pool rivals anything the five-stars have, and its complimentary breakfasts are well-stocked. Rooms are distinctly modest.”
Recommended by:
CN Traveler, New York Times, Lonely Planet, Fodors, Frommers, Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times, CNN, Lonely Planet, Forbes, Fodors, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Fodors, Lonely Planet, Frommers, Forbes, Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times, Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times, Telegraph
Recommended by:
CN Traveler, Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet
Recommended by:
CNN
Recommended by:
CNN
Recommended by:
CNN
This flamboyant capital of Brazil is famous for its beaches and the huge statue of Christ the Redeemer looking over its inhabitants.
Ipanema
A very colourful neighbourhood, Ipanema is an extremely inclusive place- a favourite among hippies, and tourists alike. Some of the best shopping opportunities are available here, with exclusive restaurants providing scrumptious meals. You can shake a leg to the tunes of bossa nova. Boutique hotels are located along the beach.
Copacabana
This crescent-shaped beach is famous among locals and tourists alike. It is alive throughout the day and night and is popular for surfing. Casual cafes and bars are found here. Prominent hotels and the Art Deco Copacabana Palace are located here.
Flamengo
This place has a relaxed feel with the largest park in Brazil and art deco architecture. Casual nightclubs are a popular haunt of a more sophisticated crowd. Several old hotels serving cold brews and traditional Brazilian fare are found here.
Botafogo
The beach provides a breathtaking view of the Sugarloaf Mountain. Movie theatres, exciting bistros, as well as happening enclave-featuring bars with fresh new concepts, and alternative nightclubs, call Botafogo their home. Such diverse hangout options make it a popular destination. Premier hotels, as well as budget inns, offer variety in accommodation.
Leblon
This upscale neighbourhood has an amazing beach famed among surfers, there are several posh boutiques, cafes and breweries along the beach to sit and relax. Some of the best restaurants are located here.
Also check out our guide about the best areas to stay in Rio de Janeiro.
If you're looking for a cheap hotel in Rio de Janeiro, then book B&B Hotels Rio Copacabana Posto 5. It's an excellent budget hotel offering great value for money. It's in a good location, it's been recommended by travel experts and the hotel has excellent customer reviews. Also check out our list of the best cheap hotels in Rio de Janeiro.
Not a fan of big chain hotels? No problem. If you want to stay in a boutique hotel in Rio de Janeiro, then you should book Mama Ruisa Boutique Hotel. The hotel has been rated highly by previous guests for its boutique style. It has also been recommended by influential travel journalists.
Also check out our list of the best boutique hotels in Rio de Janeiro, it's a manually curated list of the most unique and romantic hotels in the city.
If money isn't a problem and you're looking for a luxury hotel in Rio de Janeiro, then go for Belmond Copacabana Palace Hotel. The hotel offers excellent service, it's in a top location, it has been rated very highly by previous guests and renowned travel critics have recommended it. Also check out our list of the best luxury hotels in Rio de Janeiro, it's a manually curated list of the most exclusive 5-star hotels in the city.
If you're looking for a great hostel in Rio de Janeiro, then you should check out Aquarela do Leme. The hostel has magnificent reviews by backpackers, it has been recommended by well-known travel experts and it's in a good location.Also check out our list of the best hostels in Rio de Janeiro.
Looking for a cozy place to stay in Rio de Janeiro that serves you handmade and fresh breakfast in the morning? Go and check out Casa Beleza. The B&B has been recommended by well-known travel experts and recent guests have given it top ratings.
For a 3-star hotel you have to pay around $60 per night and for a 4-star hotel you would be looking at $80 per night. If you're after a luxury 5-star Rio de Janeiro hotel then you can expect to pay around $220 per night.
Try the Casa Beleza or Mar Ipanema Hotel if you're looking for a delicious breakfast at a hotel in Rio de Janeiro. Both hotels have excellent customer review ratings for breakfast.
If you're looking to stay in Rio de Janeiro with your family, then try Miramar Hotel by Windsor. The hotel has excellent review ratings by families.
Try Belmond Copacabana Palace Hotel if you're looking for a romantic getaway in Rio de Janeiro, it has some excellent recent customer reviews by couples.
Full Day in Rio: Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf, Maracana and Selaron with Lunch. Get an overview of Rio's most important sights during this comprehensive 8-hour tour. With a local guide, travel through the Tijuca Forest, stopping at Paineiras to board transportation to the top of Corcovado, home of the Christ the Redeemer statue. Price: $73.
Rio de Janeiro: Rocinha Favela Walking Tour with Local Guide. Discover a more authentic side to Rio de Janeiro on a non-intrusive and respectful walking tour of a favela. Learn about the lives of the people and how you can help break the cycle of drugs and guns through the power of education. Price: $28.
Open Sunset Sailing Tour. Sail along Guanabara Bay just as the sun is setting below the horizon and experience Rio when it starts to come to life. This small-group sailing adventure is a perfect way to relax and see the sites. Price: $42.
More things to do in Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro, famously known as the “Cidade Maravilhosa” or Marvelous City, carries a history as dramatic as its mountainous skyline. Founded by the Portuguese in 1565 to expel French colonists who had established an outpost in Guanabara Bay, the city evolved from a strategic colonial port into the capital of the Portuguese Empire in 1808. This was a unique moment in history when a European monarch, fleeing Napoleon, relocated his entire court to a colony, temporarily making Rio the only European capital outside of Europe. It served as the capital of Brazil until 1960, a period during which it witnessed the transition from a slave-holding monarchy to a modern republic.
Today, Rio stands as a global cultural icon, representing the vibrant, rhythmic heart of Brazil. It is a city defined by the fusion of indigenous, African, and European influences, best expressed through the pulsating energy of samba and the inclusive spirit of its people, the Cariocas. While it no longer serves as the administrative capital, it remains the country’s primary gateway for tourism and a center for creative industries, oil and gas, and international diplomacy, perpetually balancing its natural splendor with the complexities of urban life.
Beyond the famous postcards of Christ the Redeemer and Copacabana, the city holds fascinating secrets. Its very name is a colonial misnomer; explorers mistook the vast Guanabara Bay for the mouth of a river in January, hence “January River,” despite no such river existing. Furthermore, the name of its most iconic beach, Ipanema, translates from the indigenous Tupi language to “stinky lake,” a stark contrast to its glamorous reputation. Additionally, while the Christ the Redeemer statue is a symbol of peace, it is also a magnet for nature’s fury, being struck by lightning several times every year. These layers of history and irony make Rio not just a destination, but a living, breathing testament to human resilience and beauty.
We recommend that you read our guide about where to stay in Rio de Janeiro. It provides an excellent overview of the most popular areas, highlighting the main attractions and hotel recommendations for each area.
If you like our list of hostels, B&Bs and hotels in Rio de Janeiro, then you should also check out our selection of recommended hotels in Santiago de Chile or the best hotels in Buenos Aires.