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Carioca cool in Rio de Janeiro: A curated itinerary from Vogue

July 3, 2024
By Vogue for Chase Travel

    When it comes to energy and natural beauty, few cities can compete with Rio de Janeiro.

    Experience the city like a true insider with this multi-day itinerary curated by Vogue for Chase Travel. This journey is tailor-made for travelers with an eye for fashion and design: You'll stop at cutting-edge concept shops, dine in the bohemian Santa Teresa neighborhood and take in the view from the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain. It's a journey that will transform you from a wide-eyed spectator to an honorary Carioca (read: a Rio local).

    Chase Travel is the first stop for your next adventure. Earn and redeem Ultimate Rewards points with your eligible Chase card when booking a trip through chasetravel.com. Chase Sapphire Reserve cardmembers who book a hotel stay through The Edit by Chase Travel will earn 3 points per dollar and receive special benefits, including daily breakfast for two, a property credit worth $100, plus early check-in, late checkout and a room upgrade, when available.

     

    Drop Your Bags

    When it comes to living the Carioca life, where you stay is just as important as what you do. This hotel is one of our favorites.

    Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel

    Member of The Edit by Chase Travel

    A century after its grand debut in 1923, this hotel is still one of the city's most beloved properties. Check out the elevated infinity pool on the sixth floor, which serves up jaw-dropping panoramic views of Copacabana Beach and the mountains beyond.

     

    The Main Attractions

    There's so much more to discover in this carnival of a city than caipirinhas. Our favorite spots showcase Rio's natural beauty, cultural richness and nonstop fun. You'll leave blissed out, breathless and maybe a little sun-kissed.

    Ipanema Beach

    Locals and tourists flock to this iconic stretch of coast, drawn by the lively atmosphere and round-the-clock activities. As evening falls, the beach transforms into a stage for samba revelries and gatherings under the stars.

    Santa Teresa

    Despite the relentless encroachment of modern life, the laidback Santa Teresa neighborhood has held fast to its artistic spirit. At the heart of this sensibility is Largo dos Guimarães, a tree-shaded plaza where you can watch live samba and experience a vibrant cafe culture (drop by Bar do Mineiro for the feijoada). Wander the serpentine alleys and discover an unexpected art exhibition behind a wooden gate, and the psychedelic mosaics of the Selarón Steps.

    The view from above

    You haven't experienced Rio until you've soared to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain and taken in the jaw-dropping views of the city from 1,300 feet. The journey there is half the fun thanks to the Bondinho, a glass-walled cable car that's whisked visitors over the Atlântica Forest since 1912.

    Take your vistas to the next level with a private helicopter tour where you'll get an unforgettable bird's-eye view of Rio's greatest hits, from the world-famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue atop Corcovado Mountain.

     

    The One-Stop Shop

    Forget the tourist traps—this is the coolest concept store for one-of-a-kind finds. Be sure to bring an extra suitcase just for your purchases.

    Pinga

    A cornerstone of Brazil's design scene, Pinga showcases Rio's cutting-edge talents, who push the boundaries of fashion, industrial design, art and pop culture. Keep an eye out for souvenirs that embody Rio's signature contrasts, like handcrafted lace jewelry juxtaposed with bold geometric furniture or streetwear that channels the city's urban edge.

     

    Sate Your Appetite

    Whether you're in the mood for traditional recipes or the latest culinary trends from the city's top chefs, Rio's cuisine celebrates fresh, local ingredients that bring the city's eclectic personality to life.

    Aprazível

    This open-air oasis is like a love letter to the region's culinary heritage. Chef Ana Castilho's self-described "roots cuisine" pays homage to the old-school farmhouse recipes passed down through the generations—but with a modern spin. The menu strikes the perfect balance between comfort and innovation with soulful dishes that evoke memories of family meals.

    Tacacá do Norte

    Tucked inconspicuously into one of Lapa's buzzing commercial quarters, this unpretentious cafe draws patrons who jockey for limited bar and sidewalk seating. The entertainment: Watch as servers swerve between tables, juggling stacked bowls of shrimp soup and Amazonian açaí slurries.

    Pérgula Restaurant

    You don't need to be a guest of the Copacabana Palace to score a table at its signature restaurant, but you'll definitely want to break out your most stylish fit to impress the discerning doorman. Snag a seat at this indoor-outdoor spot, which is famous for its brunch spread. Or, try the catch of the day with the pupunha, a native fruit, on the side.

    Dive deeper into Rio de Janeiro or check out the latest travel guides and itineraries at chasetravel.com.

     

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