Things to do in Sao Goncalo

Activities, attractions and tours

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Top places to visit

1. Copacabana Beach

Gleaming hotels and forested hills line the perfectly curved 2.5-mile (4-kilometer) stretch of Copacabana Beach, one of the most famous beaches in the world. Abutting one of Brazil’s highest density residential areas, this beach is nearly always filled to capacity, but that’s part of its charm. Swim in the cool waters of the Atlantic amongst thousands of other visitors, join in a game of soccer on the sand or just sit back on a beach chair and order snacks from a beach vendor and watch the passing parade.
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2. Ipanema Beach

Located in one of the wealthiest areas in Rio de Janeiro, Ipanema Beach is between Leblon and Arpoador, adjacent to the famed Copacabana Beach. Although the word Ipanema literally translates to “stinky lake” in the Tupi language, this description doesn’t fit what you’ll find along this stretch of white-sand beach where the rich and chic come to worship the sun. Beyond the western limit of the beach, there is a beautiful view of the two mountains, Dois Irmãos.
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Palms and Two Brothers Mountain on Ipanema beach, Rio de Janeiro

3. Christ the Redeemer

Corcovado, which means “hunchback” in Portuguese, is a mountain in the Tijuca National Park in central Rio. The mountain offers three attractions in the one place. Although the Christ the Redeemer (Cristo Redentor) statue may be the highlight, you can also see the world’s largest urban forest that is Tijuca National Park, and experience a scenic journey on the historic Corcovado Train, the country’s oldest tourist attraction.
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Aerial view of Rio de Janeiro city skyline in Brazil, Shutterstock ID 1033504918, Purchase Order: SP-1506 Go Guides, Order Number: , Client/Licensee: Faa Praharnpap, Other: Hcom budget

4. Sugar Loaf Mountain

Located on the coast of the southeastern corner of Rio de Janeiro, Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar) resides within forests, water and hills at the edge of Guanabara Bay. Rock climbers conquer the mountain using appropriate gear, but most visitors take the glass-sided cable car to the top. Originally built in 1912, the cable car transports 65 visitors per trip and offers panoramic views the entire way.
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Sugar Loaf Mountain

5. Avenida Atlantica

No Rio de Janeiro holiday is complete without a visit to Avenida Atlântica. This avenue is famous for its events year-round, including a massive New Year’s Eve celebration covering the entire avenue and Copacabana Beach. Stroll along the avenue’s promenade to experience Rio’s lively beach culture and oceanfront events.
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Sao Conrado Beach featuring a sandy beach

6. Maracanã Stadium

No arena is more central to the history of Brazilian soccer than Maracanã Stadium. The location of the final matches in both of Brazil’s FIFA World Cups, this stadium has hosted all the great names in Brazilian soccer. Watch one of Rio de Janeiro’s “Big Four” teams play a game, or take a guided tour of this iconic stadium and you’ll soon understand just how large soccer looms in the Brazilian psyche.
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Maracana Stadium which includes modern architecture and interior views

What to do in Sao Goncalo

Popular places to visit

Copacabana Beach featuring general coastal views, a beach and a sunset

Copacabana Beach

4.5/5(132 reviews)

More than just a stretch of sand, Rio de Janeiro’s most famous beach is where locals and visitors from all over the world come to relax, strut, pose and play.

Copacabana Beach
Ipanema Beach showing mountains and a beach as well as a large group of people

Ipanema Beach

4.5/5(71 reviews)

See the place that inspired a famous song about a bikini at this upscale beach.

Ipanema Beach
Corcovado featuring a statue or sculpture, a sunset and religious aspects

Christ the Redeemer

4.5/5(93 reviews)

This mountain rising out of the city center is most well known as the home of Rio’s iconic skyscraper-sized Jesus statue.

Christ the Redeemer
Recreio dos Bandeirantes Beach

Recreio dos Bandeirantes Beach

3.5/5(8 reviews)

Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Recreio dos Bandeirantes Beach during your travels in Rio de Janeiro? While you're in the area, wander around the parks.

Recreio dos Bandeirantes Beach
Flamengo Beach

Flamengo Beach

4/5(23 reviews)

If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Flamengo Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Rio de Janeiro. Take in the art scene and sunsets in the area.

Flamengo Beach
Sugar Loaf Mountain showing a sunset and mountains

Sugar Loaf Mountain

4.5/5(92 reviews)

Scale this mountain on foot or by cable car to see impressive views of Rio’s beaches, rain forests and its most famous statue.

Sugar Loaf Mountain
Avenida Atlantica which includes a sandy beach, mountains and tropical scenes

Avenida Atlantica

4.5/5(51 reviews)

Golden sandy beaches, excellent restaurants, walking paths and some of Rio de Janeiro’s most popular neighborhoods surround this bustling seaside avenue.

Avenida Atlantica
Maracana Stadium which includes modern architecture and interior views

Maracanã Stadium

4/5(42 reviews)

To truly appreciate Brazil’s obsession with “the beautiful game,” watch a match or take a guided tour of one of the world’s largest and most historic soccer stadiums.

Maracanã Stadium
Praia da Barra da Tijuca

Praia da Barra da Tijuca

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Praia da Barra da Tijuca during your trip to Rio de Janeiro? Stroll along the beautiful beaches or seek out the local tours.

Praia da Barra da Tijuca
Rio de Janeiro featuring a sunset, general coastal views and mountains

Rio de Janeiro

Frequently asked questions

Is Sao Goncalo worth visiting?
From shopping to outdoor activities and history, there are many interesting things to do in Sao Goncalo. Be sure to discover the area's blend of awesome sights, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Sao Goncalo?
Start your day with a visit to Icarai Beach and Paqueta Island Beach. Then, tour other parts of Sao Goncalo for a bite to eat and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Sao Goncalo?
You can't leave without visiting Icarai Beach, rated the top tourist attraction in Sao Goncalo.
Is three days enough to stay in Sao Goncalo?
If you just want to check out the leading attractions, three days is more than enough time for a getaway in Sao Goncalo. Stay for a week or more for the chance to really appreciate the local vibe, visit nearby hotspots and discover a few hidden gems.
What are some activities to do in Sao Goncalo with kids?
Planning what to do in Sao Goncalo with kids is easier than ever. Whether you have little ones or teenagers, there's a range of family-friendly tours and attractions to keep them busy here.

What to do in Sao Goncalo for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or fan of Mother Nature, there are loads of things to do in Sao Goncalo for adults including Image and Sound Museum.
Are there free things to do in Sao Goncalo?
From relaxing in parks to strolling around vibrant neighbourhoods, it's easy to find free things to do in Sao Goncalo. If you need inspiration, ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. Ilha de Itapacis is a top spot for anyone looking to save on their travel adventures.