Sao Francisco Travel Guide
Rio de Janeiro
Visit Sao Francisco
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.
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.
Recreio dos Bandeirantes Beach
Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Recreio dos Bandeirantes Beach during your travels in Rio de Janeiro? While you're in the area, wander around the parks.
Things to do
Plaza Premium Lounge at Rio Galeão – Tom Jobim International Airport (GIG)
Maracana Stadium: Behind the Scenes
Rio: Carnival Backstage Tour at Samba City with Cocktail
Rio: Maracanã Stadium Official Entrance Ticket
Rio de Janeiro: Yup Star Observation Wheel Ticket
Top hotels in Sao Francisco
Sheraton Grand Rio Hotel & Resort
This hotel is truly wonderful. The breakfast was delicious and with lots of options. The staff was very professional and genuinely kind. Also, the beach and mountain view were breathtaking. Highly recommend.
Reviewed on 28 Mar 2026
Hotel Arpoador
Brilliant breakfast, great location on the beachfront. Nice to have beach umbrellas available too
Reviewed on 30 Mar 2026
Rio Othon Palace
Great location and partial beach view in my room. Rooms are dated. Good breakfast.
Reviewed on 30 Mar 2026
Hilton Copacabana Rio de Janeiro
The hotel needs some updating
Reviewed on 30 Mar 2026
Hotel Astoria Ipanema (antigo Mar Ipanema)
There was a huge coachorage in my bathroom and after I hardly killed that oneand couldn’t sleep I saw another one next day. I asked them to change my room and they said they can’t and they don’t have any room. After I insisted so hard they accepted and all of a suddeb there was another room. I know ...
Reviewed on 4 Mar 2026
Grand Hyatt Rio De Janeiro
The breakfast was well worth the cost. Dinner was very affordable for two and the stay was amazing.
Reviewed on 30 Mar 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Sao Francisco
Icarai
You'll enjoy the beaches and restaurants in Icarai. You might want to make time for a stop at Icarai Beach or Guanabara Bay.
Glória
You might enjoy the museums while in Glória. Museum of Modern Art is a notable sight, and you can get around town at Gloria Station or Russel Tram Stop to see more of the city.
Flamengo
Well liked for its beaches and breweries, Flamengo is worth a visit. Check out the variety of things to see and do like Catete Palace and Flamengo Beach, and jump on the metro at Flamengo Station to get around the city.
Leme
The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Leme. A stop by Copacabana Beach or Praia do Leme might round out your trip.
Lapa
You'll enjoy the churches and live music in Lapa. You might want to make time for a stop at Circo Voador or Arcos da Lapa.
Catete
You might enjoy the beaches while in Catete. Largo do Machado is a notable sight, and you can get around town at Largo do Machado Station or Catete Station to see more of the city.
