Sao Francisco Travel Guide
Rio de Janeiro
Visit Sao Francisco
Popular places to visit
Copacabana Beach
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.
Christ the Redeemer
This mountain rising out of the city center is most well known as the home of Rio’s iconic skyscraper-sized Jesus statue.
Avenida Atlantica
Golden sandy beaches, excellent restaurants, walking paths and some of Rio de Janeiro’s most popular neighborhoods surround this bustling seaside avenue.
Ipanema Beach
See the place that inspired a famous song about a bikini at this upscale beach.
Maracanã Stadium
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.
Recreio dos Bandeirantes Beach
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.
Things to do
Skip the Line Christ the Redeemer Admission Ticket
Plaza Premium Lounge at Rio Galeão – Tom Jobim International Airport (GIG)
Rio de Janeiro: Flamengo Museum Ticket Entrance
Rio: Maracanã Stadium Official Entrance Ticket
Rio DE Janeiro : Official Roxy Dinner Show - Dinner + Show
Little Africa - Walking tour from the passed to the future
Top hotels in Sao Francisco
Sheraton Grand Rio Hotel & Resort
Nice hotel but need a little fixing on the beach side. Helpful and friendly staff
Reviewed on 21 Feb 2026
Hotel Arpoador
The room was incredible and I would want to stay here everytime I come back to Rio. The room and the view were perfect and spacious, very modern. The rooftop pool and breakfast were wonderful!
Reviewed on 26 Feb 2026
Hotel Atlantico Business Centro
People seemed cool. I stayed to myself. I had my privacy.
Reviewed on 22 Feb 2026
Hilton Copacabana Rio de Janeiro
Great place to stay, friendly staff, cleanliness is great.
Reviewed on 23 Feb 2026
Rio Othon Palace
Booked this place with regards to enjoy my birthday celebration and all I can say is that my Ocean front view checked out all the boxes! Victoria at the front desk was extremely helpful at initial check in. The rooftop bar and pool were a nice addition. Will definitely be back.
Reviewed on 26 Feb 2026
Hotel Atlântico Prime
Room was in decent condition, although could have done a better job changing/cleaning the sheets.
Reviewed on 26 Feb 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Sao Francisco
Glória
You might enjoy the museums while in Glória. Museum of Modern Art is a notable sight, and you can get around town at Gloria Station or Russel Tram Stop to see more of the city.
Flamengo
Well liked for its beaches and breweries, Flamengo is worth a visit. Check out the variety of things to see and do like Flamengo Beach and Guanabara Bay, and jump on the metro at Flamengo Station to get around the city.
Leme
The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Leme. A stop by Copacabana Beach or Praia do Leme might round out your trip.
Lapa
You'll enjoy the churches and live music in Lapa. You might want to make time for a stop at Circo Voador or Arcos da Lapa.
Catete
You might enjoy the beaches while in Catete. Largo do Machado is a notable sight, and you can get around town at Largo do Machado Station or Catete Station to see more of the city.
Rio de Janeiro Centro
You might enjoy the museums while in Rio de Janeiro Centro. Saara Rio is a notable sight, and you can get around town at Tiradentes Tram Stop or Colombo Tram Stop to see more of the city.
