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Best hotels in Rio - split by area to match your vibe!

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Rio is an absolutely incredible city, and we loved our time there! We spent time in a few areas as we found that each one offers a unique vibe and energy. We gathered here the top 7 best areas to stay and the best hotels for each one🏨
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Centro

There is so much to do and see in Centro! We found so many hidden gems in here (check out our blog for all the details). This is the area where history and modernity meet. We recommend staying here for a night or two and moving to another area by the...

 
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We recommend staying for a night of two in Centro to explore the city .Who said you can't have a cheeky swim between exploring places or when the city gets too hot. In cities this hot a swimming pool is a must!
Vila GALÉ Rio de Janeiro
 
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We are huge fans of rooftop pools and great views. This lovely hotel is in perfect location for exploring Centro or enjoying Carnival parties. Just grab a cocktail and enjoy the views.
Windsor Asturias Hotel, Rio de Janeiro
 
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If you want to explore Rio's city centre, enjoy the history or want to dance the days away during Carnival Blokos or visit Sambadrome this hotel is in a perfect location for it all. As you can see this one has a rooftop pool as well:)
Windsor Guanabara Hotel

Lapa

The most vibrant neighbourhood of the city with lots of nightlife and clubs. During the day you get to enjoy restaurants and more famous spots and at night you can experience the party scene of Rio. We stayed 1 night here but we preferred quieter nei...

 
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You can't get closer to the best spots in Lapa than by staying in this hostel. You can get private room and there is so much social activities that you will never get bored. Also if you're travelling solo you will meet great, like minded people here.
Socialtel Lapa Rio de Janeiro
 
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This lovely hotel in the downtown Rio offers air conditioned rooms, buffet breakfast and small rooftop swimming pool. Great spot for enjoying the nightlife in Lapa and exploring the Centro.
Arosa Rio Hotel
 
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Great spot to stay if you're planning to go to Sambadrome to watch the Samba competition or to enjoy Blokos in Santa Teresa or Lapa. We stayed here for 2 nights and moved to the beach from here.
Hotel Fluminense

Santa Teresa

Peaceful and charming neighbourhood with narrow colonial streets. Santa Teresa feels like an oasis from the city’s hustle, offering a peaceful and bohemian escape. It’s a great place for those seeking a quieter experience, with plenty of art gallerie...

 
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This probably one of the best places to stay. With its beautiful buildind, comfy rooms and lovely gardens you will feel like you're not in one of the busiest cities in the world. We absolutely love the decor and breakfast here.
Santa Teresa Hotel RJ - MGallery, Rio de Janeiro
 
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This is the place for you if you're looking to relax and unwind between exploring the charming streets of Santa Theresa. It looks and feels truly dreamy.
Villa Paranaguá Hotel & Spa - Boutique Hotel
 
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With an outdoor swimming pool and incredible views over iconic Sugar Loaf Mountain and Guanabara Bay. And let's not forget this epic breakfast here.
Gerthrudes Bed & Breakfast, Rio de Janeiro

Copacabana

The most famous of neighbourhoods in Rio! And for a reason. The area is busy with beachfront bars and people enjoying the golden beach.
 
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A swim with the best views over the most famous beach in the world
WINDSOR CALIFORNIA COPACABANA
 
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Swim with the best iconic beach at your doorstep
Miramar by Windsor Copacabana
 
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Another hotel with views and swimming pool on the roof
RITZ COPACABANA BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Ipanema

More sophisticated and upscale compared to Copacabana. You'll find here amazing beaches, trendy bars and cool vibes.
 
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Luxury and best beach in one place
SOL IPANEMA HOTEL
 
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With only 100m to the beach and great sunset spot at Arpoador
ARENA IPANEMA HOTEL

Leme

Leme is a small, tranquil residential neighbourhood that offers the perfect escape from Rio's bustling crowds. What makes Leme special is its residential charm and enhanced safety compared to its famous neighbour Copacabana. We loved the more chilled...

 
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A hotel in the quieter but equally lovely area.
WINDSOR LEME HOTEL
 
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Best spot to explore Sugar Loaf mountain and enjoy the beach at the same time
ARENA LEME HOTEL

Leblon

Rio's most exclusive and luxury neighbourhood. You'll find here high end shops and upscale restaurants. Beaches are also quieter here so if you want to relax in luxury this is your place!
 
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A hotel with a rooftop swimming pool and views over the Leblon beach
HOTEL MARINA PALACE RIO LEBLON - Reviews, Photos
 
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A good value for money place to stay in the exclusive area in Rio.
MC FLATS LEBLON OCEAN - Prices & Specialty Hotel Reviews (Rio de ...
 
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Quieter neighbourhood but still with great beaches and more upscale restaurants
RITZ LEBLON HOTEL - Updated 2025 Reviews, Photos & Prices