Santa Cruz Travel Guide
Rio de Janeiro
Visit Santa Cruz
Popular places to visit
Copacabana Beach
More than just a stretch of sand, Rio de Janeiro’s most famous beach is where locals and visitors from all over the world come to relax, strut, pose and play.
Christ the Redeemer
This mountain rising out of the city center is most well known as the home of Rio’s iconic skyscraper-sized Jesus statue.
Ipanema Beach
See the place that inspired a famous song about a bikini at this upscale beach.
Maracanã Stadium
To truly appreciate Brazil’s obsession with “the beautiful game,” watch a match or take a guided tour of one of the world’s largest and most historic soccer stadiums.
Avenida Atlantica
Golden sandy beaches, excellent restaurants, walking paths and some of Rio de Janeiro’s most popular neighborhoods surround this bustling seaside avenue.
Sugar Loaf Mountain
Scale this mountain on foot or by cable car to see impressive views of Rio’s beaches, rain forests and its most famous statue.
Things to do
Grumari, Prainha & Pontal Beach Day Tour with Transfer
Pedra Do Telegrafo Hike with Transfer
Rio de Janeiro Helicopter Tour without Doors
Rio de Janeiro Helicopter Tour – Scenic Flights Over Landmarks
Private Helicopter Flight Tour: Rio de Janeiro Landmarks
Top hotels in Santa Cruz
Regency Barra Hotel
"Good Hotel, great location, will come back on a similar budget as the last time"
Reviewed on 3 Jun 2026
Grand Hyatt Rio De Janeiro
"Power kept going out in late afternoon and during the night. I have sleep apnea and to be honest , didn’t sleep last 2 nights because of power issues. I guess they had no backup generators. Our bathroom sink also backed up and wouldn’t drain. I called them 2 times to fix it but they never resolved ..."
Reviewed on 7 Jun 2026
Windsor Marapendi
"It was good spot."
Reviewed on 3 Jun 2026
Lagune Barra Hotel
"The hotel itself wasn’t very clean"
Reviewed on 15 May 2026
Laghetto Stilo Barra
"We spent 10 days at Hotel Laghetto Stilo Barra and had a lovely stay overall. What really stood out was the amazing service. Every member of the staff was friendly, attentive, and genuinely cared about making sure guests were comfortable and well looked after. Their kindness and willingness to help ..."
Reviewed on 2 Jun 2026
Américas Barra Hotel
Where to stay in Santa Cruz
Copacabana
Copacabana Beach and Rua Barata Ribeiro are top sights in Copacabana, and you should be sure to explore the stunning beaches. Hop aboard the metro at Siqueira Campos Station or Cardeal Arcoverde Station to see more sights in the area.
Ipanema
Ipanema is highly notable for its stunning beaches, and you might want to visit top sights like Ipanema Beach and Rua Farme de Amoedo. See more of Rio de Janeiro by jumping on the metro at Nossa Senhora da Paz Station or Ipanema-General Osorio Station.
Barra da Tijuca
If you're spending time in Barra da Tijuca, you might enjoy attractions like Barra Shopping Mall and Village Mall. You might also enjoy the neighbourhood's pristine beaches before hopping on the metro at Jardim Oceânico Station to see more of the city.
Leblon
Consider exploring the beaches in Leblon. If sightseeing is on the list, Ipanema Beach is a top attraction. Hop on the metro at Antero de Quental Station or Jardim de Alah - Leblon Station to see more of the area.
Rio de Janeiro Centro
You might enjoy the museums while in Rio de Janeiro Centro. Saara Rio is a notable sight, and you can get around town at Tiradentes Tram Stop or Colombo Tram Stop to see more of the city.
