Things to do
Rio de Janeiro viewpoints
From the top of Corcovado to the Arpoador rock: where to see Rio from above, and when.
Updated on October 7, 2026 ✓ Information verified on October 6, 2026 adapted version of the Portuguese original
The landscape is Rio’s greatest attraction. These are the most popular viewpoints, from the easiest to those that require a walk.
Paid, with facilities
- Christ the Redeemer: the most famous 360-degree view. Best early in the morning, on a clear day.
- Sugarloaf Mountain: the bay, Copacabana and Corcovado. Best in the late afternoon.
Free
- Mirante Dona Marta: the bay head-on, with Sugarloaf. Good light in the morning.
- Vista Chinesa: a pavilion high in the Tijuca Forest, with views of the Lagoa and the South Zone. The access road has car restrictions at times set by the park.
- Arpoador: the sunset that gets applause.
- Mirante do Leblon: at the end of Leblon beach, with the whole seafront ahead.
With a hike
- Pedra Bonita: a short trail with views of Pedra da Gávea and São Conrado; the trailhead closes at 4 p.m., according to the park.
- Dois Irmãos Hill: the view of Ipanema and the Lagoa.
- Morro da Urca: a trail of about 30 minutes from the Pista Cláudio Coutinho.
See how to fit them into the itineraries.
Places mentioned
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Paid South Zone Christ the Redeemer The statue on top of Corcovado, about 709 meters above sea level, inside Tijuca National Park. Go up by train, official van or on foot. See details -
PaidKids South Zone Sugarloaf Mountain and its cable car The cable car climbs from Praia Vermelha to Urca Hill and on to Sugarloaf, 396 meters above the bay. The sunset from the top is the most sought-after in town. See details -
Free access South Zone Mirante Dona Marta One of Rio's most beautiful viewpoints, on the way to Corcovado, with Sugarloaf and Botafogo Cove straight ahead. See details -
Free access South Zone Arpoador The rock between Copacabana and Ipanema where locals applaud the sunset. Below it, a small surf beach. See details
Frequently asked questions
What is the most beautiful viewpoint in Rio?
It is a matter of taste. Christ the Redeemer has the most complete view; Sugarloaf, the best sunset; Dona Marta, the bay head-on without an entrance fee.
Which viewpoints are free?
Mirante Dona Marta, Vista Chinesa, Arpoador and the Leblon lookout charge no entrance fee.
Keep reading
Keep planning
-
How to visit Christ the Redeemer Train, official van, authorized guide or on foot: step by step to the statue, with official prices checked in October 2026. Read guide -
Carioca Landscapes: a UNESCO World Heritage Site UNESCO's first recognition of an urban cultural landscape: mountains, forest, bay and beaches shaped by the city. Read guide -
Hiking in Rio de Janeiro Walks in the Atlantic Forest with sea views, in order of difficulty, and the rules that apply to all of them. Read guide