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Budget Break in Rio

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Spiraling inflation, an increasingly strong currency and an ever-increasing flow of tourists mean that Rio is no longer the bargain beach destination it once was, especially as travelers feel the pinch of the financial crisis. However, with a little know-how and some smart thinking, it's easy to avoid the tourist traps and see the best of this magnificent city without breaking the bank. Never has the phrase ‘the best things in life are free’ been more apt than in Rio – beautiful beaches, breathtaking views and interesting museums can all be enjoyed without reaching for your wallet; and – if you know where to look – it’s possible to enjoy good food and lively nightlife without blowing your budget.

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Author: Lucy

Day 1 - Rio de Janeiro

Friday nights in Rio are all about the street parties and samba clubs of Lapa, so make your base close to the action at the good-value Rio Hostel. The hostel lies between the laid back, boho neighbourhood of Santa Teresa and Lapa itself, and while walking between the districts is easy, don’t do so at night unless in a large group. If you are alone, or there are just a couple of you, take a cab, or you might fall victim to opportunistic thieves. Once you’ve stashed your bags at the hostel, head down to Lapa itself and check out the intriguing Lapa steps. You’ll usually find the eccentric Chilean artist Selaron hard at work on his masterpiece, and he’s always happy to talk about his work. Bring your camera, the steps are a great photo opportunity! From here, head into Centro and take in colonial architecture before stopping for a cold beer and bite to eat at Amarelinho, which sits at the heart of Cinelandia square. Prices for food here are kept low despite a great location, and you’ll be sure to linger a while as you sit and watch the world go by. After lunch, head to the bonde (tram) station, and pay just 60 centavos for this fun, rattling ride aboard the old streetcar as it rumbles over the Lapa Arches and up the winding cobbled streets of Santa Teresa. Hop off at Curvelo and check out one of the best free views over the city from the top of a renovated mansion at Parque das Ruinas. Jump back on the bonde or walk on foot to Largo das Neves, where you’ll find a quaint little square lined with bars in front of a dinky little white church. You can pick up bargain arts, crafts and vintage clothes in Santa Teresa’s many boutiques, and after a hard day’s browsing settle down to a bargain Northeastern feast at the excellent-value Bar do Arnaudo. After dinner, grab a couple of drinks in a bar and head on down the hill to Lapa, where the street party action gets going around 11pm. Countless stalls selling vodka and cachaca cocktails make this a true cheap and cheerful night out – just be careful not to get lost in the crowd, and don’t take a bag or camera, keep money in front pockets .

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