Rio de Janeiro is a festive city known for its samba dancing, sandy beaches, and Carnival. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. This will help you plan the best trip to Rio de Janeiro and stay within your ideal travel budget, whether you're exploring the museums, eating the delicious cuisine, or enjoying the nightlife.
How much does it cost to travel to Rio de Janeiro?
You should plan to spend around $105 (R$615) per day on your vacation in Rio de Janeiro. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $31 (R$179) on meals
- $6.98 (R$41) on local transportation
- $116 (R$677) on hotels
A one week trip to Rio de Janeiro for two people costs, on average, $1,474 (R$8,610). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$737
R$4,305
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$1,474
R$8,610
-
One Month
Per person
$3,158
R$18,450
-
One Week
For a couple
$1,474
R$8,610
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$2,948
R$17,220
-
One Month
For a couple
$6,316
R$36,900
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Rio de Janeiro cost?
A one week trip to Rio de Janeiro usually costs around $737 (R$4,305) for one person and $1,474 (R$8,610) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Rio de Janeiro on average costs around $1,474 (R$8,610) for one person and $2,948 (R$17,220) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Rio de Janeiro will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Rio de Janeiro on average costs around $3,158 (R$18,450) for one person and $6,316 (R$36,900) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Rio de Janeiro expensive to visit?
Rio de Janeiro is a popular city that's got a reputation that spans the globe. This makes it a hotspot for all sorts of travelers, from luxury seekers to budget backpackers. Visitors can find a range of options for accommodation from high-end luxury hotels to mid-range places to budget-friendly hostels.
Rio de Janeiro has the potential to be expensive, but you can manage your budget by eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
On average, budget travelers spend $39 (R$237) per day, mid-range travelers spend $100 (R$615) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $269 (R$1,648) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Rio de Janeiro.
Within South America, Rio de Janeiro is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Puerto Natales or La Serena.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Rio de Janeiro Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Rio de Janeiro?
The average Rio de Janeiro trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Rio de Janeiro travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Rio de Janeiro cost?
Rio de Janeiro on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$22
(R$130)
|
$58
(R$339)
|
$156
(R$913)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$3
(R$16)
|
$7
(R$41)
|
$19
(R$111)
|
|
Food 2
|
$12
(R$70)
|
$31
(R$179)
|
$79
(R$460)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$7
(R$41)
|
$19
(R$111)
|
$53
(R$312)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$2-6
(R$11-34)
|
$5-16
(R$31-93)
|
$15-46
(R$90-270)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to set realistic expectations for your travel budget. Many assume they can get by cheaply in Rio de Janeiro, but most people don't enjoy traveling on a very tight budget. Think about how you like to travel, and whether you prefer resorts, hostels, or vacation rentals. Do activities like sightseeing and dining out matter to you? These factors will help shape your travel budget.
The Truth on Budget Travel
You may believe you're traveling on a budget, but unless you're ready to give up some conveniences, you'll likely spend much more than the $39 daily average that backpackers get away with.
Younger budget travelers often stick to this low budget by staying in dorms, eating inexpensive meals, taking public transportation, and focusing on free activities and sights.
Rio de Janeiro is home to plenty of hostels, including Books Hostel, CabanaCopa Hostel, and Discovery Hostel. In hostels like these, you can snag budget-friendly dorm beds and enjoy a social environment, but be prepared for basic amenities. The city also offers superb public transit, making it easier for budget travelers to avoid the high costs of taxis and Ubers. While food is a highlight for many in Rio de Janeiro, budget travelers often resort to street food or self-catering in hostels, which can lead to missed opportunities for savoring the local cuisine.
Do You Identify as an Average Traveler?
For couples or families traveling for enjoyment, opting for a mid-range hotel, dining at popular restaurants, and exploring major museums and attractions with entry fees is likely. Most people who travel to Rio de Janeiro will want to experience its major attractions, museums, and historical landmarks. Remember, many activities do come with costs. So, you should realistically expect your daily budget to be around $100 per person, per day.
In Rio de Janeiro, you'll find a broad range of hotels and vacation rentals. If traveling with companions, you can share accommodations with a partner, friend, or your children, helping to cut costs. Families will want to look for hotels and restaurants that are kid-friendly. Mama Ruisa Boutique Hotel is a fantastic option for families, and Pouso Verde Bed and Breakfast is also a great pick. Explore more family and couple-oriented hotels in our hotel guide for Rio de Janeiro here.
Seeking a Stylish Getaway from the Daily Routine?
If you're looking for an all encompassing trip with every amenity and a higher level of service, then prepare yourself for a price tag closer to $269 per day. To stay in a nicer hotel, eat at award winning restaurants, splurge on extravagant excursions, and take taxis or private drivers to get around the city, you'll need to be prepared for a more "luxury" set of prices. Many luxury travelers also enjoy unique experiences such as Private Walking and Cultural Tour Rocinha-Rio de Janeiro - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Rio de Janeiro
The prices for hotels in Rio de Janeiro can really vary, especially during peak travel season. Off-season, the average hotel room costs $59, while during peak winter season, that average price jumps to around $110. With budget accommodations starting at $30 and luxury hotels peaking at $235, there are options for every traveler. Dorm-style hostels are often the cheapest. Traveling during the low season or booking early can help you save.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Rio de Janeiro for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $116 (R$677). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $58 (R$339) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Rio de Janeiro? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Rio de Janeiro include:
- Mama Ruisa Boutique Hotel starting at $232
- Hotel Arpoador starting at $130
- PortoBay Rio de Janeiro starting at $123
- Vila Gale Rio de Janeiro starting at $62
- Venit Mio Hotel starting at $81
Rio de Janeiro is a bustling city with a multitude of accommodation choices. From affordable hostels like Books Hostel to cozy vacation rentals and luxury hotels, there's something for every budget. Be aware that lodging in the city center is generally more expensive, but offers convenient access to public transportation and major attractions.
With Rio de Janeiro's good public transit, staying on the outskirts of the city is possible to save money, but the transportation costs and commute time could add up quickly.
Rio de Janeiro is a great destination for families, and you'll want to find an apartment or larger accommodation when traveling with kids. It's a large city, so the rooms might be on the smaller side and feel a bit cramped.
With many people staying up to a week in Rio de Janeiro, it might be worth booking a vacation rental with a kitchen if you're staying longer, so you can prepare your own food.
Choosing to travel in the shoulder or low season and avoiding winter will help you save on lodging costs and escape the tourist rush.
Exploring Rio de Janeiro on foot is a popular choice, so it's wise to find a place in the center of it all. Just be prepared for potentially higher prices.
Transportation Budget in Rio de Janeiro
In a large city like Rio de Janeiro, you'll need to think about how to get around. Fortunately, the city has a solid public transit system. The city has a subway system, MetroRio, that is relatively reliable and convenient. There are also city buses, trams, and commuter trains. For a cost-effective option, stick to public transit, but you can also easily grab a taxi or rideshare when needed.
Explorers who prefer to walk will have a fantastic time here. Most of the areas where tourists spend their time are relatively walkable. Centro is compact and many tourists choose to explore areas on foot. As always, remember to take the appropriate safety precautions and always be aware of your surroundings.
Public Transit: 
(great)
Walkability: (great)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $6.98 (R$41) per person, per day, on local transportation in Rio de Janeiro. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Rio de Janeiro is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$6.98
R$41
If public transit is a big part of your plans, multi-day transit passes are worth considering for saving money.
Stay vigilant against pickpockets on the buses and trains, and don't let your guard down in the stations. Rio de Janeiro is quite a big city.
When planning a hiking trip, consider how you'll get to the hiking trail, as public transportation might not provide direct access.
Some of the standard hotel transfers and transport options include:
- Transfer in Rio for $35 details
- Private Transfer Rio de Janeiro and Airports x Angra dos Reis (4 max) for $211 details
- Private Transfer Rio de Janeiro to Buzios for $95 details
How much does it cost to go to Rio de Janeiro? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Rio de Janeiro will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
The typical transit costs in Rio de Janeiro are outlined below, based on data from actual travelers. These figures provide an estimate of overall transportation expenses in the city. Remember, your personal costs will depend on how you choose to get around, as taxis and hired cars tend to be much pricier than using public transportation.
Food Budget in Rio de Janeiro
The dining in Rio de Janeiro is truly world-class, and you should definitely experience it. Be sure to enjoy meals at local restaurants and sample some unique offerings. The cuisine around town mixes African and European cooking styles to give it a unique taste. The city is a mix of cultures and flavors and you'll find restaurants that integrate traditional Brazilian dishes with international influences. You'll find a wonderful street food scene, but also fine dining, and everything in between. Some of the most popular dishes include feijoada (beef and bean stew), churrasco (Brazilian barbecue), and pão de queijo (baked dough and cheese).
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Rio de Janeiro can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Rio de Janeiro is $31 (R$179) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$31
R$179
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Rio de Janeiro is around $29 (R$179) per person, with previous travelers spending from $11 to $75. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Rio de Janeiro are as follows:
- Breakfast: $3 to $9
- Lunch: $4 to $12
- Dinner: $9 to $20
- Coffee: $2
- Fast Food or Street Food: $4
Rio de Janeiro has a wide diversity of food options. Local food is often available at buffet style restaurants (comida a kilo). Prices are by weight. There are also all-you-can-eat restaurants that serve grilled meats and vegetables. Servers bring the dishes to tables on skewers. This style of cooking, called rodizio, is also available for seafood, pizza, and snacks.
Brazilian specialties often include seafood such as shrimp, lobster, calamari, and shellfish. Juice bars have also becoming very common and fruit juices are available of all types.
Dias Ferreira Street, in Leblon, is the city's trendy restaurant row. Restaurants are a little more expensive in this area, but are usually quite good.
Choosing to eat at nicer restaurants during lunch instead of dinner can help you save. Many restaurants in tourist areas or business districts present lunch specials or a 'menu of the day.' These are generally smaller and more affordable versions of their dinner menus. If you look carefully, you could treat yourself to a full multi-course gourmet meal without overspending. Then, just enjoy a light dinner.
If you're traveling with little ones, try to find restaurants that feature a children's menu. This can really cut costs since these meals are often cheaper. Remember, some places don't display kids' options, so it's a good idea to ask the waiter first.
Many accommodations throw in breakfast at no extra cost, though others might charge you for it. The price and quality can greatly vary by hotel. Knowing this in advance can help you figure out if you need to spend more money. You might find the hotel's buffet is worth it, or you may prefer to grab a cheaper bite at a local bakery or cafe.
Enjoying the scenery while saving money is easy with a picnic. Head to a local grocery store or market, pick up some fresh food, and find a charming park or picturesque location for your meal.
Take a water bottle with you to save on drinks. It's also an environmentally friendly option.
Before you head out on a tour, be sure to find out which meals are included. You could end up paying for some meals out of pocket, which can impact your budget.
If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Rio de Janeiro, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:
- 3-Hour Brazilian Cooking Class in Rio de Janeiro for $160 details
- Brazilian Cooking Class in Copacabana with Hotel Pickup for $140 details
- 12 - Guided Scenarium River Tour with Dinner for $150 details
Typical prices for food in Rio de Janeiro are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the food prices in Rio de Janeiro. However, your individual costs will vary based on your travel style, selected restaurants, and the items that you order.
-
Popcorn
R$3.00
-
Corn on the Cob
R$4.00
-
Hamburger
R$5.00
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Rio de Janeiro
The allure of Rio de Janeiro is undeniable, especially since it offers museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and beaches.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Rio de Janeiro typically cost an average of $19 (R$111) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$19
R$111
Rio is known for its beaches. They are wide and beautiful with soft white sand. The main beaches are between Leme and Barra and there are many services available to visitors. There are also beaches on the island of Paqueta such as Praia da Moreninha that are worth visiting.
In addition to the many popular beaches, Rio de Janeiro has some great sights that you should make a point of visiting. The Streetcar of Santa Teresa passes through a very scenic neighborhood. Parque Lage is a small park with a mansion that has been converted to a school for fine arts. Jardim Botanico is the botanical gardens that have existed since the 1800s and the National Museum of History is downtown and covers a range of information about Brazil history.
One of the most recognizable spots in Rio is on Corcovado Hill. The landmark statue of Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer) is truly amazing and the view is breathtaking. There are several ways to reach the top of the hill but the most popular is the funicular train.
The peak time to visit is during the city's famous Carnival festival, which is one of the most famous festivals in the world. This is the most crowded, but interesting time to visit the city. The event lasts two weeks and includes many parades and events that go well into the night. The streets are filled with music, dancing, and festivities and it truly is a once in a lifetime experience.
Other activities in and around Rio include hang gliding, paragliding, hiking, and dance lessons.
Museums and Attractions:
The museums and landmarks in Rio de Janeiro are some of the most famous in the world. Looking out over the city is the world famous landmark of Christ the Redeemer. It sits on top of Corcovado Mountain and it is a must-see destination for visitors to the city. Other sights around town include the church and monastery of São Bento, the stunning church of São Francisco da Penitência, the imperial palaces of São Cristóvão, and the baroque church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo.
Beaches:
Relaxing on the beach is a top reason many visit Rio de Janeiro. The beaches have long been written about and made iconic by songs and literary works. Copacabana and Ipanema are world renowned, and the sandy stretches and vibrant waterfront promenades will not disappoint. There are plenty of recreational activities as well as a striking blue water backdrop. You'll find beach parties, waterside bars, and pickup games of football or volleyball. In addition to these iconic beaches, there are several lesser known places to visit like Joatinga and Barra da Tijuca.
Hiking:
Adventurers will find the hiking around Rio de Janeiro to be excellent. Although it is a bustling megacity, it also offers access to world class hikes. The city is filled with mountains and dramatic peaks, so many hikes take you to spectacular views of the city. There are also jungle hikes and even opportunities to see local wildlife. There's a combination of iconic trails and lesser known strolls that will let you truly absorb what this city has to offer. Some of the best hikes include Pedra Bonita, Dois Irmaos, and Pedra da Gávea.
Shopping:
You won't want to miss out on the shopping here. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Whatever your budget, there are options for you. There are wonderful street markets for those on a budget and grand shopping malls if you're looking for something a bit higher end. Some of the best places for shopping include Rio Sul, Barra Shopping, and SAARA Market.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Rio de Janeiro. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- From the Past to the Present: A Historical Walking Tour of Rio for $88 details
- Little Africa Walking Tour in Rio de Janeiro Small-Group trip for $54 details
- Rio Favela Tour for $35 details
Nightlife Budget in Rio de Janeiro
Visitors flock to Rio de Janeiro for its exceptional nightlife, which is famous around the world. It has a world famous nightlife scene, and the most popular party neighborhood is Lapa. While the biggest crowds are on the weekends, weeknights stay busy as well. Every weekend in Lapa there's a huge street party, but there are also bars and dance clubs nearby. A more local neighborhood is Botafogo, which is a great area to grab a beer and enjoy a relaxed night out. If you want a beachside bar, check out the touristy neighborhoods of Ipanema and Copacabana.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $11 (R$62) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Rio de Janeiro per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$11
R$62
Enjoying the nightlife is exciting, but if you want to save money, drinking less is an easy way to do it.
When enjoying the nightlife, stay alert and cautious, as you may attract the attention of pickpockets or other criminals. It's best to stay with a group of people you trust.
Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Rio de Janeiro. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:
- Pub Crawl in Lapa with Authentic Brazilian Bar Food” for $69 details
- Petropolis Bohemia: Historic tour and visit to the Bohemian Brewery for $56 details
- Rio de Janeiro Pub Crawl (Lapa district) for $40 details
Travel cost data last updated: Dec 21, 2024
Traveling in Rio de Janeiro
The beaches of Rio
Rio de Janeiro is the most popular travel destination in Brazil. It is the second largest city in Brazil and the sixth largest in the Americas. A portion of the city has been designated a World Heritage Site. It's also famous for Carnival, it's gorgeous beaches, and world-famous landmarks. Rio's appeal as a travel destination is apparent year round due to the great weather and plenty of fun activities. The city has a wonderful natural harbor that is surrounded by Sugar Loaf Mountain, Corcovado Peak, and the hills of Tijuca, creating an absolutely breathtaking and awe-inspiring setting.
Rio has a climate that is similar to a tropical monsoon climate. Between the months of December and March, extended periods of heavy rain are not uncommon. Temperatures in the inland areas can climb above 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer months and highs are typically in the low 80s.
Neighborhoods & Around
There are four main districts in Rio de Janeiro. Centro has the business and financial districts as well as some interesting museums and sights. The South Zone has many upscale neighborhoods and many of the tourist areas including Copacabana, as well as Sugar Loaf and Corcovado Mountains. The North Zone has the stadium, zoo, and a handful of other interesting sights. The West Zone is a growing suburban area that is most popular for its beaches. This is also the area that will house most of the 2016 Olympics.
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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.