Why Rio is Which Country is Best for a New Year Celebration
When debating which country is best for a New Year celebration, Rio de Janeiro stands alone. Two million people dressed in white, gathering on Copacabana Beach, creates an energy you can't find anywhere else.
This 4-day itinerary guides you through the marvels of the Marvelous City. From the Christ Redeemer to the samba-fueled streets.
Your 4-Day Rio New Year Itinerary
Experience why Brazil is which country is best for a New Year celebration with this guide.
Day 1: Dec 30: The Icons
See the wonders of the world before the party starts.
Christ the Redeemer
Wonder of the World
The iconic art deco statue atop Corcovado mountain watching over the city.
Why You Should Visit:
The view puts the city's scale into perspective. It's a spiritual start to the trip.
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 heat and the crowds.
Sugarloaf Mountain
Sunset Views
A peak rising straight from the water, accessible by cable car.
Why You Should Visit:
Watching the sunset over Copacabana confirms why this is which country is best for a New Year celebration.
8:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Cable Car
2 hours
How to Reach:
Cable car from Urca.
Insider Tip:
Buy tickets online to skip the massive line.
Day 1 Dining: Churrasco
All-you-can-eat Brazilian BBQ.
Fogo de Chão
The classic steakhouse experience.
Marius Degustare
Seafood and meat extravaganza.
Day 2: Dec 31: The Reveillon
The biggest party on Earth.
Copacabana Beach
Party Central
The 4km stretch of sand where the magic happens.
Why You Should Visit:
Being one of the 2 million in white is life-changing. It's the definitive answer to which country is best for a New Year celebration.
All Day/Night
Metro (Ticket req)
Until sunrise
How to Reach:
Special Metro tickets are sold for NYE. Roads are closed.
Insider Tip:
Wear comfortable shoes you don't mind getting sandy/ruined. Bring no valuables.
Yemanja Offerings
Spiritual Moment
The shorebreak where locals place flowers and floating candles.
Why You Should Visit:
Participate in the ritual. Buy a white flower and make a wish for 2026.
Sunset
Walk on beach
30 min
How to Reach:
Just walk to the water's edge.
Insider Tip:
If the ocean returns your offering, it's bad luck. Throw it far!
Day 2 Dining: Beach Kiosks
Grab bites between dancing.
Kiosks
Shrimp pasties and caipirinhas.
Hotel Buffets
High-end hotels offer gala dinners.
Day 3: Jan 1: Ipanema Chill
Recover in style on the chicest beach.
Ipanema Beach
The trendier sister
Famous for the song and the sunset at Arpoador rock.
Why You Should Visit:
It's cleaner and more relaxed than Copa. Perfect for washing away the hangover.
All day
Metro/Walk
4 hours
How to Reach:
Walk from Copacabana or Metro to General Osorio.
Insider Tip:
Post 9 is the spot to see and be seen.
Arpoador Rock
Sunset Spot
The rocky outcrop between Copa and Ipanema.
Why You Should Visit:
Join the locals in clapping as the sun sets. A beautiful start to the year.
Sunset
Walk
1 hour
How to Reach:
Walk to the end of Ipanema beach.
Insider Tip:
Arrive 30 mins before sunset to find a seat on the rocks.
Day 3 Dining: Feijoada
The national bean stew dish.
Casa da Feijoada
Traditional rich stew.
Garota de Ipanema
Historic bar where the song was written.
Day 4: Jan 2: Bohemian Vibes
Explore the artistic heart of the city.
Santa Teresa
Artistic Hillside
Winding streets, old mansions, and art studios.
Why You Should Visit:
It shows a different, quieter side of Rio.
Daytime
Tram/Uber
3 hours
How to Reach:
Take the historic yellow tram.
Insider Tip:
Visit Escadaria Selarón (tiled stairs) on the way up.
Day 4 Dining: Botecos
Casual bars with finger food.
Bar do Mineiro
Famous for pasties.
Aprazível
Treehouse dining with views.