Where to stay
in Rio de Janeiro?
Where would be the best area to stay in?
People commonly ask themselves, “Where would be the best area to stay in?”
What if the correct answer was not one but two areas?
Choosing the right neighborhood can make a major difference in your experience.
Here is why you should stay in Copacabana during the week and in Santa Teresa on the weekend when visiting Rio de Janeiro.
Two of the city’s most famous areas are Copacabana and Santa Teresa, each offering something completely unique.
A fantastic way to soak in everything Rio has to offer is to split your stay, you can spend the weekdays in Copacabana and head to Santa Teresa for the weekend. This way, you will get the best of both worlds – Copacabana’s lively beach scene during the week and Santa Teresa’s laid-back, artsy vibes on the weekend.
Copacabana During the Week:
Rio’s Beachfront Playground
1) Enjoy the Beach Without the Weekend Crowds
Copacabana is famous for its long stretch of sandy beach, perfect for those looking to unwind by the ocean. Staying here during the week means you will avoid the big weekend crowds and have a more peaceful time enjoying the sun, sea, and the iconic promenade. Whether you want to relax, go for a swim, or just take a stroll along the boardwalk, weekdays are the ideal time to soak it all in at a slower pace.
2) Central Spot for Exploring the City
If you’re planning to visit Rio’s top sights, Copacabana is super convenient. You can easily hop on the metro or a bus to reach landmarks like Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, and downtown Rio. During the week, those spots are typically less crowded, making it easier to explore without the weekend rush. After a day of sightseeing, you can relax with a cold drink at one of the beachfront kiosks and watch the sunset.
3) Good Balance of Work and Play
If you need to fit in some work or just want to stay connected, Copacabana is a wonderful choice. The area has plenty of modern hotels with all the amenities you need, and it’s well-connected with public transportation. It’s perfect for balancing productivity while still enjoying Rio’s iconic beach culture.
4) Chill Weeknight Vibes
While Copacabana is known for its buzzing nightlife, during the week things are a bit more relaxed. You’ll find plenty of bars and beachside spots where you can have a drink without dealing with the intense weekend crowds. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the city’s energy without feeling overwhelmed.
Santa Teresa on the Weekend:
Rio’s Artsy Escape
1) Dive Into Art and Culture
Once the weekend hits, it’s time to head up to Santa Teresa. This charming neighborhood sits on a hill and is known for its artsy, bohemian vibe. On weekends, Santa Teresa comes alive with street markets, art galleries, and live music. It’s the perfect place to take things slow, wander around its cobblestone streets, and check out the local art scene.
2) Lively Weekend Dining and Nightlife
Santa Teresa’s culinary scene and bars kick into high gear over the weekend. You’ll find everything from cozy cafes to great Brazilian restaurants, often with live music playing in the background. After dinner, if you want to go out at night, you can go to Lapa, the nightlife district of Rio, where you can listen and dance to samba, forró, Brazilian funk and enjoy the various nightclubs or its traditional bars.
3) Blend in with the Locals
One of the best parts about staying in Santa Teresa on the weekend is how lively it gets with locals. This is when people from all over Rio head to the neighborhood to hang out in cafes, art markets, and to enjoy live music. It’s the perfect chance to mingle with locals and get a real feel for the city’s laid-back, creative side.
4) Explore with Ease
Santa Teresa is a great base for weekend adventures. You can easily visit nearby spots like Lapa, known for its nightlife and the iconic Arcos da Lapa, Glória with its amazing Sunday street market, Flamengo Park with its promenades and beach facing the Sugar Loaf. And when you’re done exploring, head back to Santa Teresa to wind down in one of its cozy guesthouses or boutique hotels, away from the hustle and bustle of the city center.
Conclusion: A Perfect Combo
By staying in Copacabana during the week and in Santa Teresa on the weekend, you’ll experience two different sides of Rio de Janeiro. Copacabana offers all the energy of the beach, tons of things to do, and easy access to the city’s must-see sights. On the flip side, Santa Teresa brings a more chilled-out, artistic vibe that’s perfect for a weekend escape. So, spend your weekdays soaking up the sun and seeing the sights, then switch gears for a relaxing, culture-filled weekend in one of Rio’s most charming neighborhoods.
We think this would be the best way to experience the full range of what Rio has to offer.
