The World's Biggest Beach Party
When the debate over what's the best place to visit for New Years begins, Rio de Janeiro often wins by sheer scale. Three million people, all dressed in white, gathering on one beach is a sight you have to see to believe.
This 3-day itinerary guides you through the chaos and beauty of Rio. You'll visit Christ the Redeemer, samba in Lapa, and offer flowers to the ocean goddess at midnight.
Your 3-Day Tropical Party
Experience what makes this what's the best place to visit for New Years.
Day 1: Dec 30: The Icons
See the wonders before the party starts.
Christ the Redeemer
New Wonder
The Art Deco statue watching over the city from Corcovado mountain.
Why You Should Visit:
It's the symbol of Rio. Start your trip with a blessing and a panoramic view that proves this is what's the best place to visit for New Years.
8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Cog Train
3 hours
How to Reach:
Train from Cosme Velho station.
Insider Tip:
Go at 8 AM sharp to beat the crowds and the heat.
Sugarloaf Mountain
Sunset Views
Take the cable car up to this granite peak for the best sunset in the world.
Why You Should Visit:
Watch the lights of the city turn on, building anticipation for tomorrow's festivities.
8:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Cable Car
2 hours
How to Reach:
Cable car from Praia Vermelha.
Insider Tip:
Buy tickets online to skip the massive line.
Day 1 Dining: Churrasco
All-you-can-eat steak.
Fogo de Chão
Classic rodizio with a view.
Carretão
Local favorite in Copacabana.
Day 2: Dec 31: Reveillon
The night of 3 million people.
Copacabana Beach
The Main Stage
The world's most famous beach transforms into an ocean of white-clad partygoers.
Why You Should Visit:
This energy is unmatched. Being part of this crowd is the definition of what's the best place to visit for New Years.
All Night
Metro (Special Tkt)
12 hours+
How to Reach:
Metro to Siqueira Campos (pre-booked ticket required).
Insider Tip:
Wear white! It's considered bad luck to wear other colors (though you can accessorize with colors for specific wishes).
The Offerings
Spiritual Moment
At the water's edge, millions throw white flowers into the sea as gifts to Yemanjá.
Why You Should Visit:
It's a beautiful, serene moment amidst the chaos of the party.
Before Midnight
Walk
30 min
How to Reach:
Just walk to the water.
Insider Tip:
Buy flowers from street vendors earlier in the day.
Day 2 Dining: Beach Kiosk
Keep it casual and close.
Beach Kiosks
Caipirinhas and snacks.
Hotel Buffet
Ticketed safe zones.
Day 3: Jan 1: Ipanema Chill
Recover on the chic side of town.
Ipanema Beach
Style & Surf
Less chaotic than Copacabana, famous for 'The Girl from Ipanema'.
Why You Should Visit:
It's the perfect place to wash off the previous night and relax in the sun.
All Day
Walk / Metro
All Day
How to Reach:
Next beach over from Copacabana.
Insider Tip:
Watch the sunset at Arpoador rock; the crowd claps when the sun goes down.
Day 3 Dining: Feijoada
The national bean stew.
Casa da Feijoada
Traditional rich stew.
Garota de Ipanema
Historic restaurant.