There's not much chance of getting bored in Rio de Janeiro, and there are plenty more things to do outside the city in Rio de Janeiro State.
Taking a bus or coach trip down the Costa Verde will bring you to the perfectly-preserved town of Paraty, as well as the unassuming town of Angra dos Reis, which is surrounded by stunning islands.
Closer to home, Niteroi has some fantastic, uncrowded beaches as well as the famous MAC Museum, while Ilha da Paqueta makes a great day trip to escape the crowds and see the locals at play.
And exploring things to do outside the city isn't all about beaches, either - the historic mountain town of Petropolis has some fantastic architecture and views, while Vargem Grande is packed with nature trails and opportunties for exploring the lush inland.
Perfectly Preserved Colonial Town...
Island-hopping Adventures...
Baía de Guanabara
Boating and biking on the other side of the bay...
Miranda da Boa Viagem
Niterói
Space age archictecture...
Vargem Grande
Eating & Exploring...
Praia do Recreio das Bandeirantes
Surf, Sand and Sunbathing...
Rio de Janeiro - RJ, Brazil