Your Guide To Rio 2016

All eyes will be on Rio de Janeiro next year as the Olympics set up shop at the coastal paradise. That’s right – it’s been nearly four years since London 2012. For all those lucky enough to have bagged themselves tickets, it’s not just about the games, but soaking up the travel, activities, attractions, culture, people and food that are all on offer. Get the full experience with our guide to Rio 2016.

Getting There

Airlines flying to Rio de Janeiro’s Galeao International Airport include American Airlines, British Airways, TAP Portugal, LAN Airlines and TAM Linhas Aereas. When you get to the airport, you can take advantage of the airport transport service, pick up a taxi, or take the bus.

Accommodation

There are a variety of hotels available in Rio, from romantic hotels to fully equipped rental apartments, so you can find something to suit you, but you best get a move on, as you’re going to be competing with hundreds of thousands of other visitors thanks to the Olympic Games. It might be obvious, but make sure to book at least a few days either side of the event(s) you’ll be watching, so you have time to experience the rest of the city.

Money

The currency used in Rio is the Real (BRL), and is the currency used throughout Brazil. There are ATMs in Brazil where you can withdraw money, but these are turned off at 11pm to prevent you withdrawing money late at night.

Eating And Drinking

Eating out is very popular in Rio because it’s relatively cheap, whether you fancy fruit salad at a beach bar, bean stew in a quiet restaurant, or meat skewered on a BBQ. If you’re after something to quench your thirst, discover the sweet taste of a Caipirinha or order a fresh agua de coco in a coconut.

Attractions

When you’re not at the games, there are plenty of attractions in Rio, from the world-famous to the obscure. Take the climb up Corcovado Mountain to gawp at Christ the Redeemer with its arms outstretched, or whip straight up to the top of Sugar Loaf Mountain on a cable car for fantastic views over the harbour at the grand height of 396metres. If you’re more into your water sports than mountainous heights, head to the coast for windsurfing, parasailing and beach volleyball on the beautiful beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema. With a rich history, much of Rio is an outdoor museum, but you can find the greatest collections at the National Museum and Natural History Museum.