The Best Day Trips From Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is famous for its samba beats, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife, but there’s so much more to explore beyond the city’s borders. Whether you’re into hiking, idyllic beaches, or cultural immersion, Rio de Janeiro serves as the perfect gateway to some incredible day trips.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best day trips from Rio de Janeiro, complete with travel times, and the attractions not to miss to maximise your time. Having taken many of these day trip myself, I highly recommend that you take a day out of Rio to explore some of the many incredible nearby destinations. It’s a chance to trade the city’s non-stop buzz for hidden gems and breathtaking views, all while soaking in Brazil’s incredible diversity.

If you don’t have time to read this blog post, here are the links to all the recommended best trips from Rio de Janeiro.

Ilha Grande – A Tropical Paradise

Why Visit Ilha Grande ?

Ilha Grande is a jaw-dropping tropical island boasting pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush rainforest trails. Just off the coast of Rio, this once pirates lair, leper colony and penal institution, is now a haven for relaxation and fun. Known for its car-free, nature-first ethos, it’s a perfect day trip if you are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Rio.

Key Attractions:

Lopes Mendes Beach – Famous for its soft sand, turquoise waters, and great surfing conditions.

Blue Lagoon (Lagoa Azul) – Ideal for snorkelling and spotting colourful marine life.

Rainforest Hikes – Trails offer breathtaking views and lush greenery.

Travel Time: 2–3 hours, depending on your ferry or boat choice from Angra dos Reis.

Best Tour Options

Rio de Janeiro: Angra do Reis and Ilha Grande Full-Day Tour: If you’re looking for an unforgettable day trip from Rio at a reasonable cost, then the Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande Full-Day Tour is a top-notch choice. This tour is perfectly designed if you want to escape the city for the day and experience beaches and crystal clear lagoons.

From start to finish, everything is organised – you’ll enjoy comfortable transportation from a number of pick up options in Rio. The convenience of a fully planned itinerary allows you to relax and focus on exploring the natural beauty of this idyllic region.

Once you have arrived at Ilha Grande, you’ll visit pristine beaches and take in the vibrant marine life.

With its stunning landscapes and stress-free experience, this tour is a great option for discovering this hidden jewel of Brazil.

If you are travelling in a group, then it is worth booking a private tour just for your group. The best private tour recommendation is the Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande: Small-Group Fast-Boat Tour.

Designed specifically for small private groups, this tour ensures a more personalised and flexible experience to Ilha Grande.

This tour takes a faster boat to Ilha Grande so it is both fun and quick. Throughout the day you’ll experience some of Ilha Grande’s most incredible spots, from beaches and tranquil coves to crystal-clear waters for swimming and snorkelling.

If you are after flexibility and exclusivity, this private small-group tour is a one of the best ways to visit Ilha Grande.

Petrópolis – The Imperial City

Why Visit Petrópolis?

Nestled in the Serra dos Órgãos mountains, Petrópolis is steeped in history, charm, and aristocratic opulence. This city was the summer retreat for Brazil’s royal family so if you are after a glimpse into the country’s royal past; this is a great one day option.

Key Attractions

Imperial Museum – Formerly the summer palace of Emperor Dom Pedro II.

Crystal Palace – A stunning glass pavilion built to host 19th-century royal events.

Catedral de São Pedro de Alcântara – A beautiful neo-Gothic cathedral and burial site of the last Brazilian Emperor; and other members for the Brazilian Imperial Family.

Travel Time: About 1.5–2 hours by road. The distance is about 68 kilometres (42 miles).

Best Tour Options

Full Day Excursion to Petrópolis from Rio de Janeiro: If you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking to explore the imperial city, then this is a great tour option.

With a dedicated guide, this tour covers the city’s most iconic landmarks: the Imperial Museum, the Cathedral and Crystal Palace.

If you are travelling in a group, then it will be worth booking the Petropolis Full Day Private Tour. This tour again covers the key sites (The Imperial Museum, Cathedral and Crystal Palace) as well as a visit to the Quitandinha Palace, once the largest casino in South America.

This private tour also includes time visiting the House of 7 Errors. The House of 7 Errors is a 19th-century mansion known for its eclectic architecture and debated design asymmetries, making it really popular city attraction.

As this tour is private, with your own dedicated driver and guide, it can be tailored to your preferences and timings in advance. This really is the best option for visiting Petrópolis from Rio in one day.

Arraial do Cabo – The Brazilian Caribbean

Why Visit Arraial do Cabo?

With its powdery white sand beaches and equally stunning underwater world, Arraial do Cabo is fondly called the “Brazilian Caribbean”. A perfect day trip if you love beautiful beaches, this place will seriously leave you in awe.

Key Attractions

Praia do Farol – Often ranked among Brazil’s most beautiful beaches.

Pontal do Atalaia – Famous for its steps leading to turquoise waters.

Scuba Diving and Snorkelling – Filled with marine life in crystal waters.

Travel Time: Approximately 2.5–3 hours by road. The distance is 165 kilometres (103 miles).

Best Tour Option

The Arraial do Cabo Island Day Trip is a fantastic one-day trip from Rio, offering a tropical paradise experience. The tour covers visits to stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters and golden sands, perfect for swimming and relaxing.

The tour also includes photo stops at stunning locations such as The Blue grotto, known for its unique rock formations, and Fenda de Nossa Senhora. Finally, this tour includes lunch and offers several pick up options from Rio; so really great value and convenient.

Paraty – Colonial Beauty By The Sea

Why Visit Paraty?

If you love a mix of culture, architecture, and natural beauty, Paraty is a great place to visit. This colonial-era town has cobbled streets, colourful buildings, and the lush green coast as its backdrop.

Key Attractions

Historic Centre – Wander through beautifully preserved streets full of 17th-century Portuguese architecture.

Boat Tours – Explore nearby islands and secluded beaches.

Cachaça Distilleries – Sample Brazil’s famous tipple in local distilleries.

Travel Time: The drive time takes around 4 hours. As this is a longer journey compared to other day trips from Rio, the best recommendation is to take a private tour to maximise your time and comfort.

Best Tour Option

The Full-Day Historical Tour in Paraty from Rio is a great tour option. This tour includes visits to Paraty’s historical centre, time at a Cachaça distillery, hiking and beach time.

The historical centre is worth it alone, with time to spend wondering the cobblestone streets of this charming town.

As this is a private tour, just for your group, the itinerary is flexible and makes it a very convenient and comfortable day trip from Rio.

Teresópolis Nature’s Retreat

Why Visit Teresópolis?

Offering cooler weather, soaring mountains, and lush greenery, Teresópolis is a dream for nature lovers. Whether you’re hiking through the national park or enjoying its charming streets, this small city is the perfect breath of fresh air.

Key Attractions

Serra dos Órgãos National Park – Home to hiking trails, waterfalls, and one of Brazil’s most famous peaks, the Dedo de Deus (“Finger of God”).

Horto Municipal – A beautiful botanical garden showcasing local flora.

Travel Time: Around 1.5 hours by car. Teresópolis is approximately 96 kilometres (about 60 miles) from Rio.

Best Tour Option

Rio: Hiking Adventure in Serra dos Órgãos National Park Tour – This is a great one day tour option from Rio to get to hike in the national park and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

This tour includes all the essentials, hotel pick-up, transport and park entrance fees.

This day tour allows you to fully immerse yourself in the serenity of the Serra dos Órgãos National Park, a protected area established in 1939 and renowned for its diverse flora, fauna, and stunning terrain.

The tour includes hikes to several key areas of the park, including the “Green Pit” (PARNASO) and the Mirante do Cartão Postal viewpoint. These stops offer scenic vistas and photo opportunities that capture the park’s rugged beauty. While some components of the hike are optional, such as an extended hike to particular viewpoints, the routes on this tour have been designed to cater to both casual walkers and experienced hikers. The tour also gives you time in Teresópolis for food and shopping.

This hiking adventure tour from Rio de Janeiro to Serra dos Órgãos National Park really is a convenient way to escape the city and connect with Brazil’s incredible national park and landscapes.

Búzios – Glamour and Relaxation

Why Visit Búzios?

Búzios is a luxurious coastal town known for its sophisticated vibe and stunning beaches. Popularised by Brigitte Bardot in the 1960s, this destination is great if you are seeking some glamour and downtime from Rio.

Things to Do in Búzios

Rua das Pedras (Stones Street) – A lively area filled with shops, bars, and restaurants.

João Fernandes Beach – A calm spot for swimming.

Orla Bardot Boardwalk – For picturesque seaside views.

Travel Time: 2.5–3 hours by car from Rio. Búzios is approximately 175 kilometres (about 106 miles) from Rio.

Best Tour Option

From Rio de Janeiro: Búzios Boat Trip with Lunch – A great option for escaping Rio and enjoy a day filled with serene beauty and coastal charm.

This tour ensures a hassle-free and enjoyable experience with several key inclusions: including round-trip transfers back to your hotel, a tour guide and lunch.

The tour includes a boat trip, that stops at beautiful beaches and time for swimming or snorkelling. Afterwards, you will spend some time in Búzios for lunch and more exploring, including time visiting Rua das Pedras.

Overall, this Búzios tour is a great way to visit the Brazilian coast.

Niterói – Rio’s Scenic Neighbour

Why Visit Niterói?

Just a short drive or ferry ride from Rio, Niterói offers impressive viewpoints, modern art, and relaxed beaches. It’s an ideal destination for a quick escape with minimal travel time.

Key Attractions

Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC) – Designed by renowned architect Oscar Niemeyer and offering stunning views of Rio’s skyline.

Parque da Cidade – A hilltop park with panoramic vistas.

Itacoatiara Beach – A quieter beach ideal for swimming and climbing.

Travel Time: About 30–45 minutes by car or ferry.

Best Tour Option

Niterói City Tour & Contemporary Art Museum Admission (with Transfer): Is a great tour for art lovers and architect enthusiasts. This 5-hour tour highlights the best of Niterói’s history and artistry, including world-renowned works by architect Oscar Niemeyer.

This tour includes transport, flexible pickup hotel options, and a tour guide. During the tour, you’ll visit a number of key landmarks showing Niemeyer’s signature curvilinear designs that defy conventional architecture including time at the The Museum of ComContemporary Art Museum (MAC). Lastly, and not forgetting you’ll enjoy great views of Guanabara Bay.

So To Wrap Up On The Best Day Trips From Rio de Janeiro…

Rio de Janeiro is undoubtedly an exciting city, but its nearby destinations prove that there’s so much more to explore in this corner of Brazil. Whether you want to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, relax on stunning beaches, spend time hiking in national parks, or immerse yourself in Brazil’s rich history, these day trips from Rio give you just that.

For more great information on visiting Rio, read the Rio de Janeiro Best Things to Do & Essential Tips blog post.