The name Rio is famous the world over and for good reason; there’s so much to see and do here. Hire a car, for the first must-see is the stupendous Statue of Christ the Redeemer from which there is an incredible view of the city.
Next on the list is a day on the renowned Copacabana Beach where samba rhythms pump out all day and most of the night. Finally, if you’re in Rio in the spring, don’t miss carnival time. It’s the carnival that all others aspire to but never reach.
Rio De Janeiro Mini Guide
Rio de Janeiro City is mostly known for its incredible carnival, the huge statue of Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer) that overlooks the bay and the beautiful people who line the amazing beaches spanning the coast. Among them are such famous places as Copacabana and Ipanema which have become a main part of music and cultural folklore. This is the place where people dance all night to the rhythms of the samba and the Bossa Nova.
This city has the nickname 'A Cidade Maravilhosa', which is the marvellous city. However the name Rio de Janeiro translates from Portuguese as January River. Rio de Janeiro City was the capital of Brazil for almost two hundred years before it was relatively recently transferred to the city of Brasilia. In the 9th century Rio de Janeiro City was the capital of the United Kingdom of Portugal.
Hiring a car is an invaluable way to get around what is the second largest city in Brazil. Because of the carnival, Rio de Janeiro receives more visitors than any other city in the southern hemisphere. They will see a spectacular natural position to the city, nestled among the Sugarloaf and Corcovado mountains, near to dense forest and the glittering waters of the bay below. One of the best ways to admire these views is to get the cable car.
Rio de Janeiro is hosting the final match for 2014 FIFA World Cup as well as the 2016 Summer Olympics, so prebook your car hire well in advance for either of these events.
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