The metropolis of Rio de Janeiro lies nestled in beautiful countryside with a view of islands and paradise beaches. The city's landmarks are Copacabana beach and the Sugar Loaf Mountain, which gives the city its unmistakable silhouette. Opposite, on Corcovado hill, stands the world-famous statue of Christ. Historic churches and monuments compete with modern architecture; typical traditional street markets stand directly beside ultra-modern shopping centres. A trip in a cable car to the peak of the Sugar Loaf, which is over 700 m high, promises a truly breathtaking view of the city. Sights include: Metropolitana Cathedral, the municipal theatre, the city palace Paco Imperial, the National Historical Museum, Sugar Loaf Mountain and the statue of Christ.

Tips for excursions

Niterói

A trip over the 13 km long and 60 m high Presidente Costa e Silva bridge over the Guanabara Bay to the neighbouring city of Niterói, built in the 16th century, the museum of modern art "Boa Viagem", the beach of Praia das Flexas, the district of Icarai and other notable sights.

Jeep tour up the Corcovado and through the Tijuca rainforest

A jeep excursion in converted former military vehicles into the Tijuca rainforest, the biggest urban forest in the world, in whose midst stands the statue of Christ on the hill of Corcovado. The statue of the Redeemer, built in 1931, extends its protecting arms out over the city. The trip takes in the 220 steps up to the statue of Christ before going on through the Tijuca rainforest. Noteworthy sights include the Myrink chapel, the Cascatinha waterfall and the unique beauty of the rainforest.

Rio with the Sugarloaf

Panoramic tour to the various districts of Rio de Janeiro, a trip up the Sugarloaf by cable car. Wonderful views from the summit of the Sugarloaf over the whole bay of Guanabara and Rio de Janeiro.