Rio de Janeiro · Brazil · Things to do
5 things to do in Rio with kids
The five best things to do in Rio with kids are going up to Christ the Redeemer, spending a morning on Copacabana, riding the Sugarloaf cable car, watching the coast from a high viewpoint, and finding the city's colour in its murals and live music. Go on a clear morning for the statue and keep beach days short in the midday heat.
What to do, in order
- 1
Go up to Christ the Redeemer
The statue stands on Corcovado mountain, about 700 metres above the city, and the view from its base covers the bay, beaches and Sugarloaf. The classic way up is the cog train from Cosme Velho through Tijuca forest, which children enjoy; vans and taxis also climb to the top. Book a timed ticket ahead and go first thing in the morning, since clouds often hide the statue by midday and queues build. Bring water and a hat, as there is little shade at the top.
- 2
Relax on Copacabana
Copacabana is a long, curving city beach with a wide black and white wave pattern on the pavement behind it. Families can rent chairs and umbrellas from the beach kiosks and order water, coconut or snacks without leaving the shade. Waves can be strong, so stay near the lifeguard posts and keep children close to the shore. Go in the morning, when it is cooler and quieter, and keep your phone and bag out of sight. Ipanema, to the south, is a little calmer.
- 3
Ride up Sugarloaf Mountain
Sugarloaf is a granite peak at the mouth of Guanabara Bay, reached by a two-stage cable car that stops first at Morro da Urca. The ride itself is the highlight for children, with open views over the bay and the city. Go in the late afternoon, so you see the city in daylight and then at dusk, but buy tickets online to avoid the longest queues. The stop at Morro da Urca has space to sit and eat. Little marmosets sometimes appear on the paths, so keep food away from them.
- 4
Take in the coast from above
Rio's coastline is best seen from a height. For a free viewpoint, climb the Pedra do Arpoador, the small rock between Copacabana and Ipanema, where people gather at sunset and sometimes applaud as the sun goes down. Mirante Dona Marta, in the Tijuca forest, has a wide view of the city and the statue. Helicopter flights are available for those who want a bird's-eye view. Pack water, wear shoes with grip and go with an adult on rocky ground.
- 5
Feel the city's colour
Rio's colour is in its streets. The Selarón Steps in Lapa are covered in bright tiles from around the world, and the arches nearby host live music in the evenings. Santa Teresa has murals and small galleries, and the port area has large street art. Samba circles meet in several neighbourhoods, usually in the evening, and many are open to families. Use licensed taxis or ride apps at night, avoid carrying valuables, and stay in busy, well-lit streets.
Plan it
- Best time
- May to September is drier and cooler, with comfortable days. December to March is hot, humid and busy, with Carnival in February or March. Book early for those weeks.
- How long
- Four days covers these five at a family pace. Add two days for a beach trip or the Tijuca forest.
- Getting around
- The metro runs along the south zone to Copacabana and Ipanema and is clean and quick. Ride apps and licensed taxis cover the rest. Use official transport to the statue, not unmarked cars.
Good to know
- Wear sunscreen and drink more water than you think you need. The heat is strong, even on cloudy days.
- Keep phones and cameras close, and carry only what you need to the beach.
- Ask your accommodation which neighbourhoods are best at night.
Frequently asked
Is Rio safe for families? +
Yes in the main tourist areas with sensible precautions. Petty theft is the main risk, so carry little, avoid displaying phones and use ride apps or licensed taxis at night. Ask your accommodation about areas to avoid.
What is the best time to visit Christ the Redeemer? +
Early morning on a clear day. Clouds often cover the statue by midday, and queues grow through the morning. Check a live webcam or the weather before you commit to a slot.
How many days do you need in Rio? +
Four days is enough for the statue, Sugarloaf, a beach day and the city's music and murals. Add more if you want forest walks, a boat trip or day trips along the coast.
When is the best time to go to Rio? +
May to September for cooler, drier weather, or December to March if you want beach weather and festivals. The summer months are hot, humid and crowded, with Carnival the busiest period.