Flights to Rio De Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is the lively capital of Carnival located in southeast Brazil. The cidade maravilhosa unfolds dramatically against a backdrop of lush mountains, glorious beaches and deep blue sea, making it one of the most spectacular cityscapes on earth. Rio was the capital of Brazil from 1763 to 1960, and its longstanding history of Portuguese, Japanese, Indian and German settlers has helped to shape its multicultural vibe. Whether visitors want sun, sea, samba beats, shopping malls, natural scenery or history, trips to Rio de Janeiro offer it all. For the biggest adrenaline rush, visit in February during Carnival time to experience the world's biggest marathon party event in all its glory.

Basking on the shores of Guanabara Bay, the buzzing city centre is home to historic landmarks, the financial district and the modern Metropolitan Cathedral. Overlooking the old colonial capital, 19th century mansions conceal bohemian artists' hangouts in the hilly streets of Santa Teresa, whilst Christ the Redeemer keeps watch from atop the Corcovado Mountain, as the city throbs with samba beats beneath him. To the south, bay meets ocean at the Sugarloaf Mountain and Rio's famous beaches stretch out west along the Atlantic coast one after another, from Copacabana and Ipanema to Leblon and Barra de Tijuca.

When visiting Rio de Janeiro, be sure to:

• Take a cable car up to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain and be rewarded with spellbinding vistas
• Rattle up to Christ the Redeemer on the Corcovado rack railway and see Rio's most iconic monument up close
• Be dazzled by parades of dancers in glittering costumes and revellers during February's Carnival
• Sink your toes into the soft golden sands of Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon beaches
• Learn about Brazil's indigenous people at the National Museum
• Browse the shops and flea markets in south zone and pick up some souvenirs
• Stop by Barra Shopping, the largest mall in South America
• Try surfing on Barra da Tijuca beach, then kick-back with a sunset caipirinha cocktail
• Sample traditional dishes at a Churrascaria
• Get your groove on and try samba dancing