How much does it cost to travel to Rio de Janeiro?

Rio de Janeiro is one of the most popular destinations in Brazil and the world. With breathtaking landscapes such as Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, as well as a vibrant and captivating culture, the city attracts tourists all year round. But after all, how much does it cost to travel to Rio de Janeiro?

We’ve prepared this post to help you plan your trip with detailed information about prices for the city’s main attractions, cultural tours, and accommodation tips so you can experience the best of Rio!

Before we begin, it’s important to remember that prices vary depending on the time of year, whether it’s high or low season, special events, and tourist demand. The higher the demand, the higher the prices will be.

How to get there

The cost depends on the departure point:

By Air: Domestic flights starting from R$250 and R$600 (round trip). For international flights, prices usually range from R$2,500 to R$5,000, depending on the season and country of origin.

By Bus: Tickets from nearby cities usually starting from R$100 and R$300.

Transportation

Here are the prices for getting around the city:

  • Metro: R$7.90 per ride
  • Buses and Light Rail (VLT): R$4.70 each
  • Ride-hailing apps: Prices vary according to distance

💡 TIP: When you buy a ticket with the “Jaé” card, you can reload the same card (at kiosks or via app) and use it for all public transport in the city, so you will have more free time to enjoy Rio!

Food

In Rio, you’ll find options for every budget:

  • Simple restaurants: Between R$30 and R$60 per person (self-service style).
  • À la carte restaurants: Between R$80 and R$200 per person.
  • Beach snacks: Street vendors often overcharge, especially with foreign tourists who aren’t familiar with the currency conversion. Be mindful of the real value of items. Typical snacks cost around R$20.

Tours and attractions

Christ the Redeemer (Corcovado train):

  • Adult: R$128
  • Senior: R$67
  • Child: R$102
  • Student: R$102
  • People with disabilities: R$102

Sugarloaf Cable Car:

  • Standard Ticket: R$195
  • Promotional (Brazilians): R$155
  • Child: R$97
  • Senior: R$97
  • Other discounts: R$97

Museums and Cultural Centers

Many museums offer free admission on specific days, or charge up to R$30.

Free museums in Rio de Janeiro:

TOUR IN RIO

Accommodation: where to stay in Rio de Janeiro

This can be one of the biggest expenses of your trip. Hotels in tourist areas like Copacabana and Ipanema can exceed R$800 per night during peak season. But there is a safe, convenient, and cost-effective alternative:

Pineapples

Pineapples is a leading vacation rental company in Rio de Janeiro, with more than 1,700 properties listed on its website. Complete accommodations at affordable prices in the best city locations!

Beyond saving money, vacation rentals offer extra benefits such as:

  • Equipped kitchens, helping you save on meals
  • Privacy and comfort, ideal for couples, families, or groups of friends
  • Strategic locations in Copacabana, Ipanema, Barra da Tijuca, and other neighborhoods
  • A real “home away from home” feeling

Traveling to Rio de Janeiro doesn’t have to be expensive — just choose the right options!

airbnb in rio de janeiro