Short history:
Rio de Janeiro, commonly known as "Rio," is one of Brazil's most iconic cities, rich in history and cultural significance. It was founded on March 1, 1565, by the Portuguese military officer Estácio de Sá, who established the city as a defensive outpost against French incursions. Initially called São Sebastião do Rio de Janeiro in honor of Saint Sebastian, the city played a crucial role in securing the Portuguese foothold in South America. Over time, Rio evolved from a small colonial settlement into a bustling port and administrative center.
From the late 17th century, the discovery of gold and diamonds in the neighboring region of Minas Gerais turned Rio into a major commercial hub, as it became the primary port for exporting these valuable resources to Europe. The city's significance grew further in 1808 when the Portuguese royal family fled Napoleon's invasion of Portugal and relocated the court to Rio de Janeiro. This unprecedented move transformed Rio into the capital of the Portuguese Empire, the only European capital to ever exist outside Europe. As the center of imperial power, Rio underwent rapid urbanization and cultural expansion.
Rio remained the capital of Brazil after the country's independence from Portugal in 1822, and it continued to play a pivotal role in national politics, culture, and economics throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries. It was during this period that Rio developed many of its famous landmarks, including the Imperial Palace and the National Library, reflecting its status as a seat of power. The city's vibrant culture blossomed with the rise of samba and Carnival, cementing its reputation as a cultural capital.
In 1960, Rio de Janeiro ceded its status as Brazil's capital to the newly built Brasília, marking a shift in political focus. However, Rio continued to thrive as a major center for tourism, culture, and international business, keeping it at the heart of Brazil’s global image.
Landscapes and Natural Beauty:
Renowned globally for its stunning natural beauty, Rio de Janeiro is a city where mountains, beaches, and rainforests seamlessly converge to create breathtaking landscapes. Its iconic geography is dominated by the towering Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar), which rises dramatically from the waters of Guanabara Bay and offers panoramic views of the city and coastline. Perched high on Corcovado Mountain is the world-famous Christ the Redeemer statue, a symbol of both Rio and Brazil, overlooking the city with arms outstretched.
Rio is also home to the Tijuca National Park, one of the largest urban rainforests in the world, filled with lush greenery, waterfalls, and trails that wind through a dense canopy, providing a tranquil escape within the bustling city. This forested landscape is an integral part of Rio's charm, blending nature with urban life. The city’s coastline is lined with pristine beaches, including the world-renowned Copacabana and Ipanema, where golden sands meet the azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean. These beaches are not only famous for their beauty but also for their vibrant social scenes, drawing locals and tourists alike to enjoy the sun, surf, and iconic beach culture.
Further south, the Joá and Barra da Tijuca beaches offer more secluded and expansive stretches of sand, while the Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas, a scenic lagoon surrounded by mountains and urban parklands, provides a peaceful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. Rio’s landscapes are a harmonious blend of urban development and natural wonders, making it one of the most unique and captivating cities in the world.
Culture and attractions:
Culturally, Rio is celebrated as the home of Carnival, one of the largest and most vibrant festivals in the world. The city’s vibrant music scene, particularly samba and bossa nova, has also earned international acclaim. A hub for art, music, and cuisine, Rio offers visitors a unique blend of traditional and contemporary experiences.
As a result of its colonial history and the influence of both native and European immigrants, Rio de Janeiro is a vibrant and welcoming city. Its diverse cultural heritage is reflected in the city's gastronomy, music, and architecture. Visitors are sure to be enchanted by its unparalleled beauty, which exists in perfect harmony with nature, academic research centers, and universities.
Known as the "Marvelous City," Rio de Janeiro boasts attractions that have earned it international recognition. From the world's largest urban forest to its two bays, lagoons, 90 kilometers of beaches, and surrounding mountains, Rio is a haven for nature lovers. As one of Brazil's cultural capitals, the city is home to numerous museums, cultural centers, historic buildings, music events, cinemas, and theaters. With an impressive selection of restaurants and tourist sites, Rio offers something for everyone.
Combining breathtaking scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture, Rio de Janeiro continues to be one of the world’s most sought-after travel destinations.
Some Hotel Options
Hotel IBIS Rio de Janeiro Botafogo
Hotel IBIS Style de Janeiro Botafogo
From Galeão International Airport to FGV
We suggest to take a taxi or use the Uber app.
You can take a taxi at the exit of the terminal. Aerocoop/Aerotaxi company has a counter, the ride to Rio's main areas is about 60-120 reais, it can be paid by card at the counter or by cash to the driver.
If you prefer to ride with Uber, you need to follow the signs that start already in the baggage claim. Uber has a dedicated parking area.
Further information can be found here: https://www.riogaleao.com/passageiros/page/taxis-e-aplicativos
Get around in Rio de Janeiro
Rio has an efficient metro system https://www.metrorio.com.br/ that links all the main neighborhoods of the city. Each ride costs 6.50 reais. It can be paid by contactless VISA credit/debit card, or you can buy tickets at the counters in the metro stations.
The hotels listed above are either within walking distance to FGV or close to one of the metro stations (FGV is located a 5-minute walk from Flamengo metro station).
Taxis are also safe and not expensive. There are apps that can be used for taxis as Taxi99.
Uber is a valid and safe alternative.