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Ready-made itinerary · Rio de Janeiro

3-day itinerary in Rio de Janeiro

Spending 3 days in Rio de Janeiro lets you combine the classics with time to enjoy each place. This plan brings together the top-rated experiences, spread across mornings and afternoons, with breaks for meals. The best time to follow it is from May to September.

2 days3 days5 days
Most reviewed activity in Rio de JaneiroRio de Janeiro Full-Day Tour + Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain by Minibus★ 8.6 · 338 reviews · from US$ 103 · via CivitatisSee dates and price →
Day 1 Arrival and the first classics
11:00
Dona Marta Viewpoint Sunrise & Christ the Redeemer from US$ 98

On this tour in Rio de Janeiro, we'll see a spectacular sunrise at the Dona Marta viewpoint and the awe-inspiring statue of Christ the Redeemer.

Book on Civitatis
13:00
An unhurried lunch

Take a break at a restaurant in Rio de Janeiro to recharge before the afternoon.

15:00
Rio de Janeiro Sailboat Trip from US$ 54

Admire the famous Sugar Loaf Mountain from a truly unique perspective with this unforgettable sailboat trip around Rio de Janeiro.

Book on Civitatis
20:00
Dinner and evening

End the day at an easy pace: local food and a bit of nightlife.

Day 2 Nature and postcard views
09:00
Tijuca National Park Cave & Waterfall Hike from US$ 77

Explore the nature of Rio de Janeiro on this hiking tour in the Tijuca National Park! You'll see stunning waterfalls and amazing caves on this Cave Trail.

Book on Civitatis
13:00
An unhurried lunch

Take a break at a restaurant in Rio de Janeiro to recharge before the afternoon.

15:00
Rio de Janeiro Private Boat Tour from US$ 271

Enjoy a day sailing Brazilian waters in the most exclusive way with this Rio de Janeiro Private Boat Tour just for you and your partner, family or friends!

Book on Civitatis
20:00
Dinner and evening

End the day at an easy pace: local food and a bit of nightlife.

Day 3 At your own pace
09:00
Roxy Dinner Show Tickets from US$ 78

At Roxy Dinner Show, you'll enjoy a show full of Brazilian traditions with an incredible staging. Plus, you'll enjoy a delicious dinner.

Book on Civitatis
13:00
An unhurried lunch

Take a break at a restaurant in Rio de Janeiro to recharge before the afternoon.

15:00
Rio Sunset Sailing Tour from US$ 53

Experience a beautiful sunset over Rio de Janiero, sailing the bay as night falls on board a luxurious yacht - a unique experience in the 'Cidade Maravilhosa'.

Book on Civitatis
20:00
Dinner and evening

End the day at an easy pace: local food and a bit of nightlife.

Questions about the itinerary

How many days are ideal in Rio de Janeiro?
The ideal is to set aside 4–5 days for the main sights, without rushing. This 3-day itinerary covers the top-rated experiences, with breaks to eat and rest.
When is the best time to follow this itinerary?
The best window in Rio de Janeiro runs from May to September, when the weather is most comfortable and there is less rain. See the month-by-month detail on the best time to visit page.
Complete guide to Rio de Janeiro Best time to visit Getting there