Where to stay in Rio de Janeiro – a neighborhood guide

Rio offers its tourists a wide range of choices when it comes to accommodation, from five-star hotels to a bustling hostel, to B&Bs or apartments amongst the more scenic areas. Many of Rio’s visitors stay in the Southern area where the hotels boast fitness centers and rooftop swimming pools, and similar to the shopping scenario, there is less accommodation in the North Zone. 

South Zone

 

With the pristine beaches and continuous buzz of activities taking place in the area, it is home to a collection of Rio’s top hotels. Windsor Atlantica provides their guests with a stunning roof-top swimming pool, a hearty breakfast and an excellent location, or for a cheaper budget The Mirasol Copacabana offers a similar experience but boasts fantastic hospitality. Those of you looking for a hostel, Ipanema Beach House provide what they can for those on a tight budget from local advice to great breakfasts. Acapulco Copacabana and Leme Palace are in a central location for the beaches and shops, providing standard accommodation at a reasonable price.

 

North Zone

 

It is much easier to stay outside of the north zone and travel in to visit the attractions, but if you’re set on it there are a few places to stay. Arosa Rede Rio, also known as the Snob Hotel, is not at all pretentious but full of friendly staff and the room rate includes breakfast. If you’re looking for basic, Hotel Paraguai is in close proximity to the beach and restaurants, and offers a good accommodation at a cheap price.

 

West Zone

 

You really are spoilt for choice in this area, with hotels such as Windsor Barra and Sheraton Barra that offer roof top swimming pools and luxury restaurants; you won’t want to go home. If you’re not too fussed about seeing the center of Rio, but looking forward to spending time on the beach then Hotel Praia Linda may be perfect for you. A mid-range, modest but friendly hotel, offering Wi-Fi and a decent restaurant with a selection of rooms that provide a beach view. On a budget, try Tropical Barra Hotel, which has comfortable rooms, a small pool and a great buffet breakfast, situated close to the beach and surrounded by restaurants.

 

Central Zone

 

With a large selection of mid-range hotels in the area, you will be in the center of a shopper’s paradise and a stone’s throw from the beaches. Windors Asutrias prides themselves on above average hospitality and their roof top pool, providing comfortable rooms in a prime location. Hotel Granada and Sao Francisco offer a similar experience at a cheaper rate, and slightly closer to Copacabana Beach. For those of you on a budget, Hotel Carioca is clean, friendly and many rooms have views of the ‘Christ the Redeemer’ statue.