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Brazil
Rio de Janeiro 3-Day Itinerary
The perfect long weekend in Rio de Janeiro. Three days of must-see attractions, local favorites, and insider tips — from $45 to $320 per day.
Trip Overview
Duration
3 Days
Best Time
May to October (drier, cooler), or February for Carnival
Budget Cost
$135
Mid-Range
$330
1
Day 1
Christ the Redeemer
Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf sunset, Lapa nightlife and samba street party
Estimated cost: $110 (mid-range)
2
Day 2
Copacabana morning
Copacabana morning, Ipanema beach, Arpoador sunset, churrascaria dinner
Estimated cost: $110 (mid-range)
3
Day 3
Santa Teresa tram
Santa Teresa tram, Selarón Steps, favela tour, Maracanã football match
Estimated cost: $110 (mid-range)
Total 3-Day Cost Estimate
Budget
$135
$45/day x 3 days
Mid-Range
$330
$110/day x 3 days
Luxury
$960
$320/day x 3 days
Insider Tips
- Take the Sugarloaf cable car at sunset — sky goes orange, city lights come on
- Use Uber, not street taxis; safer and cheaper, especially at night
- Stay in Copacabana, Ipanema, or Leblon — Lapa is fun by day but iffy after dark
- Don't bring valuables to the beach; Rio thieves work fast on tourists
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