by Ed Ford Why go? Renowned around the world for its party scene, beautiful women, picture-perfect beaches, and all-around sense of fun, Rio’s the perfect place to spend your final days as a single man. Plus, its reverse southern-hemisphere seasons mean it’s a perfect escape from wintry weather back home — even in its coldest season, the city rarely dips below the 60s at night.
Best Ideas: Go all out with a bacchanalian visit during Carnival — if you’re prepared to truly party, of course. Outside that celebratory season, Rio’s still an amazing place to visit, and a day at Copacabana or Ipanema beach, a night at Rio Scenarium, and anything involving caipirinhas are musts on your trip.
Good to Know: If you are planning a Carnival bachelor party, make your plans well in advance — seemingly everyone else in the world will be headed to Rio at that time, too. Crime is an issue throughout Brazil, and you should take common sense precautions in your hotel and whenever you go out.
Few cities capture people’s imaginations like Rio de Janeiro. São Paulo may be the brains of South America’s most-populous nation, but Rio is its beating heart. It’s hard not to get excited when catching your first glimpse of Dois Irmãos mountain rising dramatically from the sands of Ipanema Beach. Rio’s a city that just about has it all: Great weather, some of the world’s best beaches and most beautiful people, innovative cuisine, a strong cultural identity, and a true zeal for life. Throw in the city’s world-famous nightlife, and you have a recipe for a perfect trip to send you into married life.
Travel & Essentials for a Rio de Janeiro Bachelor Party
The weather in Rio is pretty damn good all year round, but as it’s in the southern hemisphere, the seasons are reversed from those in the north. You can expect scorching-hot temperatures from about December through March, but you’re never too far from a beach (and a refreshing caipirinha) in Rio, making the heat a lot more bearable. Temperatures are more moderate in the fall (April through June) and spring (September through November), where daytime highs are in the 70s and 80s and the evenings slip into the 60s.
You can’t have a discussion about the best time to visit Rio without talking about Carnival, which occurs in February in the middle of the South American summer. Carnival is Rio at its best — the city teems with visitors and locals (called Cariocas) alike dancing in the streets to the sounds of samba. But Carnival is also Rio at its busiest and most expensive. It may be hard to find accommodation at all for a large group of guys, never mind something affordable. You may want to consider not visiting during Carnival, or at least make your plans far in advance so you aren’t left without a place to house your group.
Getting to Rio isn’t as simple as hopping on a 2.5-hour flight to Miami or a cross-country trek to Las Vegas. Brazil is a big country, and Rio lies in the southeastern part on the Atlantic Ocean. Flights from the U.S. are long, and there aren’t a ton of American cities with nonstop options. American Airlines does fly nonstop from its hub in Miami as well as seasonally from JFK in New York City. Delta has a daily nonstop flight from Atlanta, as well as a seasonal one from JFK, while United flies daily from its Houston hub. With not much competition on these routes, prices are often high, even in economy, so you can expect to pay around $1,000 or more for a round-trip ticket from the US.
Once you land in the Marvelous City, call an Uber to pick you up directly at Galeão International Airport — it’s also a great way to get around town. The city’s metro system runs 24/7 during Carnival but otherwise closes at midnight Monday through Saturday. While helpful for getting around between Copacabana and downtown Rio, it’s not the most extensive system, so you’ll likely be relying on Uber for many trips.
There’s no shortage of things to do in this city, but if you have more than a few days in town (you should), escape the crowds in the city and take a boat trip to nearby Ilha Grande, where you can relax, throw back more than a few beers, and experience the slower side to life in Rio.
Despite its beauty, there are a few things to be aware of. Brazil has a reputation for being a dangerous country, and while much of that is overblown, there are some legitimate concerns. Petty crime is widespread and pickpockets are everywhere in the city. While you’re out during the day, just take a few bills along with your debit and credit card and keep them very close — in a front pocket or even in the waistband of your shorts or pants. Leave the Rolex at home. Jewelry is a magnet for thieves and even your iPhone could become a target, so discretion is key while walking around the city. That said, if you take a few precautions, there’s no reason you shouldn’t feel totally safe in Rio. You can even go on a tour of the city’s infamous favelas, the neglected slums built from castoff junk and devoid of even basic public services like water, sewerage systems, and electricity, though the ethics of that kind of tour are nebulous to say the least.
Another Thing to Note: Rio’s most famous neighborhoods are beachfront Copacabana and Ipanema, though there’s much more to the city than these two areas. Head to Santa Teresa to get a taste of the trendier side of Brazil, with its numerous craft stores and street art installations. Want to party? Get yourself to Lapa, which is chock-full of bohemian vibes and is the center of Rio’s world-famous nightlife scene.
Pros and Cons of a Bachelor Party in Rio de Janeiro
Pros:
- Great weather
- An unbeatable setting
- Fun-loving people
- Epic nightlife
Cons:
- It’s expensive to get to
- It’s far from the U.S.
- There are a few genuine safety concerns
Best Attractions and Activities in Rio de Janeiro
Rio is as teeming with activities to take part in during the day as it is with fun not-under-the-sun at night. As always, exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, but expect to be wowed by what this Brazilian city has to offer whether it’s light out or you’re out under cover of darkness.
-
Christ the Redeemer
Parque Nacional da Tijuca - Alto da Boa Vista, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22261, Brazil
(Photo courtesy of Edísio Júnior)
Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, you’re going to wait in line. But it’s totally worth it to nail that selfie under the arms of Jesus Christ. Oh, and the view from the top of Corcovado mountain isn’t so bad either.
-
Copacabana and Ipanema Beach
Copacabana Beach - Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro - State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
(Photo courtesy of Alobos Life)
No trip to Rio would be complete without a day at Copacabana and Ipanema beaches. In fact, you could devote practically one whole day to each — they’re that epic. Copacabana has gotten less glamorous as Ipanema has raised its profile, but spend a day on either and you’ll get a taste of what real life in Rio is like.
-
Jardim Botânico
Jardim Botânico, Rio de Janeiro - State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
(Photo courtesy of Visit Rio)
After several late nights that turn into early mornings, you’ll probably want a place to catch your breath and enjoy some peace and quiet. Look no further than Rio’s botanical gardens, which are home to more than 8,000 plant species. Perhaps even more impressive is the garden’s setting, which makes for endless Instagram opportunities.
-
Niterói Contemporary Art Museum
Mirante da Boa Viagem, s/nº - Boa Viagem, Niterói - RJ, 24210-390, Brazil
(Photo courtesy of Niterói Contemporary Art Museum)
If you want to do something that doesn’t involve consuming large amounts of cachaca, head to the Oscar Niemeyer-designed masterpiece that houses one of the largest private collections of contemporary art in the world. The best part? It’s not overrun with tourists and their selfie sticks.
-
Escadaria Selarón
R. Joaquim Silva, S/N - Centro, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 20241-110, Brazil
(Photo courtesy of Contiki)
Does it get more Instagrammable than a multicolored tile staircase like this famous one? We didn’t think so. However, beware the crowds of tourists just like you trying to get the perfect photo.
-
Sugarloaf Mountain
Sugarloaf Mountain - Urca, Rio de Janeiro - State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
(Photo courtesy of Bondinho Pão de Açúcar)
Wait for a perfectly sunny day, then make a beeline for Sugarloaf Mountain, otherwise known as Pão de Açúcar. Take the cable car to the top of the mountain and prepare to be amazed by the unbeatable views of the entire city, from Christ the Redeemer to Copacabana Beach.
-
Catch a match at Maracanã Stadium
Av. Pres. Castelo Branco, Portão 3 - Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 20271-130, Brazil
(Photo courtesy of Johrling)
You can’t talk about culture and daily life in Brazil without a mention of soccer. The country is completely obsessed with the game, and Maracanã Stadium — one of the world’s biggest — is an ode to the beautiful sport. Just know that it is very difficult to get tickets, as cariocas (locals) don’t just let them go very easily. If you manage to score a ticket, though, get ready for one of the most electrifying experiences you’ll ever have.
-
Go out in Lapa
Lapa - Santa Teresa, Rio de Janeiro - State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
(Photo of Lapa courtesy of Dennis Goedegebuure)
The city’s bohemian home is also the soul of its nightlife. Do as the locals do and gather at the famous Lapa arches for a drink before venturing into one of the neighborhood’s many bars and clubs.
-
Join a Boat Party in Bahia de Guanabara
Guanabara Bay, Brazil
(Photo courtesy of Rio Madness Boat Party)
Head to Bahia de Guanabara and hop on a party boat to kick off one of your nights out. The scene is loud and relaxed, and you’ll have no shortage of incredible nighttime views of the city before your night gets too foggy.
-
Eat at a Churrascaria
R. Rodolfo Dantas, 16 - Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22020-040, Brazil
(Photo courtesy of Churrascaria Palace)
No trip to Rio would be complete without a visit to a churrascaria, a Brazilian steakhouse. Get ready for a lot of meat. By the time the waiters are done carving you the various meats tableside, you’ll be begging for it to end.
-
The Best Hotels and Airbnbs in Rio de Janeiro
Given that this is one of the world’s most popular cities for tourists, you won’t have too much of a problem finding a place to stay — unless you’re visiting during Carnival, of course.
-
Miramar Hotel by Windsor
Best Rooftop Pool Av. Atlântica, 3668 - Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22070-001, Brazil
(Photo courtesy of Travel Humboldt)
Vibe: If your group is smaller and you’re going to go the hotel route, there are plenty of options in many price ranges. If your budget is tighter, take a look at the Miramar Hotel by Windsor, located right on Copacabana Beach.
Price: Rooms start at about $125 per night for a prime location and access to a ridiculously Instagrammable rooftop pool overlooking Rio’s iconic mountainous landscape.
-
JW Marriott Hotel Rio de Janeiro
Best Value Av. Atlântica, 2600 - Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22041-001, Brazil
(Photo courtesy of JW Marriott Hotel Rio de Janeiro)
Vibe: Also located on Copacabana Beach, the JW Marriott Rio de Janeiro is a mainstay in the city. The Moonlounge Rooftop Bar & Truck is an ideal place to get your nights in Rio off to a good start.
Price: Rooms start around $160 a night, not a bad price at all considering the hotel’s location.
-
Belmond Copacabana Palace
Worth the Splurge Av. Atlântica, 1702 - Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22021-001, Brazil
(Photo courtesy of Belmond Copacabana Palace)
Vibe: If the budget is looser, Belmond Copacabana Palace is for you. This is arguably the grand dame of Rio’s hotels, and you’ll feel like a celebrity sipping on caipirinhas and coconuts on the its stylish white loungers.
Price: Rooms here start at about $350 per night.
-
Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro
Best "Go Big or Go Home" Splurge Av. Vieira Souto, 80 - Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22420-002, Brazil
(Photo courtesy of Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro)
Vibe: And if money’s no object whatsoever, the Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro is where you want to be. This property is located in Ipanema, opposite the Dois Irmãos, setting up the ultimate bragworthy Instagram backdrop.
Price: Rooms here are small, and start at over $400 per night, so if you have a large group, things are going to get pricey … and quick.
-
If your group is just too big to practically stay in a hotel, home share services like Airbnb and VRBO are your friend. There are plenty of places with their own pools and backyard bars, perfect for a group of guys traveling together. You can also book homes that come with chefs and cleaning services, so you don’t have to worry about a thing once you arrive.
-
Airbnb: Luxury Duplex Penthouse Leblon
Best Bachelor Party Pad Rio de Janeiro, State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
(Photo courtesy of Airbnb)
Vibe: The Luxury Duplex Penthouse Leblon, for example, has motion picture looks, a pool, 24-hour security, and is steps away from the beach.
Price: It has room for up to eight guests and prices start around $590 a night.
-
Airbnb: Colorful Copacabana Penthouse
Best for Large Groups Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro - State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
(Photo courtesy of VRBO)
Vibe: Meanwhile, in Copacabana, this colorful penthouse rents up to seven bedrooms and includes a lush patio with fantastic views of Sugarloaf Mountain.
Price: Rates start at $721 a night.
-
Best Restaurants in Rio de Janeiro
-
Nosso
Best Low-Key Dining Scene R. Maria Quitéria, 91 - Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22410-040, Brazil
(Photo courtesy of Nosso)
This three-level restaurant is the perfect place to get into the party mood. Set in the Ipanema neighborhood, this spot focuses on local cuisine with a refined twist. The bar skews heavily to rum, ensuring a good night will be had by all.
-
Marea
Best Views Posto 8 - Av. Vieira Souto, 0 - Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22420-002, Brazil
(Photo courtesy of Marea)
From the Fasano group (the same one that runs Rio’s Fasano hotel), this beachside cafe is putting an upscale spin on Rio’s beachfront kiosk food. Serving food all day long (come for an acai bowl in the morning), Marea is the perfect place to take a break from the surf and soak up some of the best views in town.
-
Aprazível
Best Upscale Brazilian Food R. Aprazível, 62 - Santa Teresa, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 20241-270, Brazil
(Photo courtesy of Aprazível)
It’s all about the views at this Santa Teresa restaurant located on the top of a hill, but you’ll like the food, too. Think hearty Brazilian dishes — like medelhão, or beef medallion in port sauce accompanied by Aprazível potatoes and creamed spinach cream with plantains, topped with Parmesan au gratin — served with cocktails made with the freshest local fruits.
-
Adega Perola
Best Tapas-Style Snacks Rua Siqueira Campos, 138 - Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22031-010, Brazil
(Photo courtesy of Adega Perola)
You’ll likely be standing during your meal, but the tapas-style snacks at this Rio institution are worth it. Open for over 60 years, this place knows what it’s doing. Order the famous octopus marinated in olive oil and wash it down with a refreshing Chopp cerveja.
-
CoLAB
Best Brunch Menu R. Fernandes Guimarães, 66 - Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22290-000, Brazil
(Photo courtesy of CoLAB)
This jack-of-all-trades restaurant located in the Botafogo district has something for everyone, but when you’re craving a bit of home, head here for the American-style brunch. It’s one of the city’s best.
-
Churrascaria Palace
Best Steakhouse R. Rodolfo Dantas, 16 - Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22020-040, Brazil
(Photo courtesy of Churrascaria Palace)
The Palace dates back to 1951 and has been a hit in Rio ever since. This Brazilian steakhouse will leave you so stuffed you’ll barely be able to walk home — but you’ll want to do it all over again the next night.
-
Galeto Sat’s
Best Late-Night Eats R. Barata Ribeiro, 7 - Loja D - Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22011-001, Brazil
(Photo courtesy of Galeto Sat’s)
Specializing in roast chicken and open until 5 a.m. daily, Galeto is the perfect spot to satisfy the late-night hunger that comes after a night of heavy drinking.
-
Feira Nordestina
Best Hangover Cure Armação dos Búzios - State of Rio de Janeiro, 28950-000, Brazil
(Photo courtesy of Feira Nordestina)
Head to this fair on the weekend to get a taste of the spicy food that hails from Brazil’s northeast. With hundreds of food stalls, you’ll never be too far from a delicious bite of acarajé, deep-fried balls of bean paste that hark back to the cuisine of slaves — or another cachaca cocktail.
-
Cervantes
Quirkiest Local Favorite R. Barata Ribeiro, 13 - Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22011-001, Brazil
(Photo of Cervantes courtesy of Roberta Montezuma)
Filet mignon-and-pineapple sandwiches. Need I say any more? When you want something quick and totally satisfying, look no further.
-
Best Bars and Clubs in Rio de Janeiro
Before you even consider stepping outside your hotel for a night out in Rio, you need to know one thing: what a caipirinha is. On paper, it’s nothing more than cachaça (sugarcane liquor), sugar, and lime, but when you drink one, you’ll understand that it’s so much more — and you won’t need any explanation why it’s Brazil’s national cocktail.
-
Bar Astor
Best Place to Start Your Night Av. Vieira Souto, 110 - Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22420-002, Brazil
(Photo courtesy of Bar Astor)
Bar Astor is where you go before the night really gets underway. Its high-end vibe, cold beers, and fresh cocktails make the perfect start to a very long night out.
-
Bar Urca
Best Waterfront Bar Loja (bar) e Sobreloja (restaurante - R. Cândido Gaffrée, 205 - Urca, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22291-080, Brazil
(Photo courtesy of Bar Urca)
Catch one of Rio’s world-famous sunsets with any one of a number of varieties of caipirinha in hand at this waterfront bar.
-
Rio Scenarium
Best Place to Go Dancing All Night Long R. do Lavradio, 20 - Centro, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 20230-070, Brazil
(Photo courtesy of Rio Scenarium)
If you only had one night out in Rio, most people would tell you to go to Scenarium. It’s made up of two buildings that each have three floors filled with antiques from movie sets, and enough samba to keep you going into the early hours of the morning.
-
Febarj
Best Megaclub Av. Mem de Sá, 37 - Centro, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 20230-150, Brazil
(Photo courtesy of Febarj)
Also in Lapa, Febarj is another multi-floor mega-club that features live music and dance shows and cheap drinks.
-
Best Strip Clubs in Rio de Janeiro
-
Boate Kalabria
Best Strip Club Rua Belfort Roxo, 88 - Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22020-010, Brazil
(Photo courtesy of Boate Kalabria)
Located on Copacabana Beach, this is one of Rio’s most popular gentlemen’s clubs. Drinks are on the pricey side here, so make sure you’ve got plenty of booze in you before you arrive. In other words, this is one strip club you’ll want to pregame for.
-
Boate Marrakech Café
Best Gentlemen's Club Av. Princesa Isabel, 185 - Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22011-010, Brazil
(Photo courtesy of Boate Marrakech Café)
With more of a contemporary vibe, Boate Marrakech Café doesn’t feel as seedy as a traditional strip club, but it doesn’t fail to disappoint with plentiful booze and gorgeous Brazilian women.
-
Bottom Line
If you want a bachelor party destination that’s a bit out of the ordinary and not your typical Vegas or Miami trip, Rio is your spot. The beach, the booze, the food, and the nightlife guarantee you’ll have an unforgettable trip with your best buddies before you walk down the aisle and say goodbye to single life forever.
