Daniel Basil | Creative Commons

The Olympics

From 5th - 21st August 2016 the city will see more than 10,500 athletes partake in 28 sports across four different regions of the city, Barra, Copacabana, Deodoro and Maracanã - home of the famous Maracanã stadium, the scene of many of Brazil's most prolific sporting events.

Things to do

Rio de Janeiro has some of the most famous and iconic sights in the world, from the much sung about Copacabana Beach to the outstretched arms of Christ the Redeemer. It's a city that is greatly talked about and photographed but it is only when there that you can fully appreciate the awe inspiring views from Corcovado and Sugarloaf Mountains and feel the energy and buzz of the golden beaches.

While you're here, take a city tour showing you all the famous sights including the Selarón Steps - a colourful installation featuring mosaic tiles from around the world - and get that all important selfie with the statue which overlooks the city. For an alternative glimpse into life in Rio, a favela tour is a must to fully understand this complex metropolis.

The beaches

You can't visit Rio without spending some time on the infamous Copacabana Beach where crashing waves are set against a backdrop of high-rise hotels. If you'd prefer to get away from the main tourist drag, head further along the coast to the beautiful sunsets of Arpoador or the laid back vibes of Ipanema Beach.

The nightlife

It's no secret that Brazilians know how to party. Make like the locals and head to lively Lapa where you'll find a host of bars and nightclubs filled with the sounds of samba. This is the place to try Brazil's favourite drink - the Caipirinha. These cocktails, made with a mix of cachaça, sugar and lime, are a must try on any visit to Brazil and are sure to have you dancing the night away.

Further afield

Rio is just one small part of Brazil; if you have some time to escape the city, nearby Ilha Grande has some of the best beaches in the country combined with a laid back island vibe, whilst the colonial town of Paraty gives a glimpse into the Brazil of old with its cobbled streets and horse drawn carts offering a direct contrast to the big city nearby.