Known for its postcard-perfect beaches and cultural attractions, Rio de Janeiro is a fun-loving Brazilian city that also hosts one of the biggest parties in the world – Carnival. Set to take place February 21st – 29th in 2020, the festival is truly iconic with its over-the-top parties, colourful costumes and elaborate parades, and we’re here to help you plan your trip by narrowing down the top hotels near Rio Carnival.
The Sambadrome is the most important venue of Carnival, playing host to the famous parades. Considered a quintessential Carnival event, it hosts the city’s best samba schools performing with jaw-dropping floats. However, for a local experience, many of Rio de Janeiro’s top neighbourhoods host blocos (street parties) with live music, dancing and even family-friendly events.
With over 400 million annual visitors to HotelsCombined, we’ve tracked down the best neighbourhoods in Rio to base yourself and the top hotels near Rio Carnival. Whether you’re after a ritzy beach hotel in Copacabana or a party hot spot in Botafogo, these stylish accommodations cater to all types of travellers.
Top Tips for Rio Carnival
- Decide which street party (bloco) you want to attend beforehand.
- Get creative with glitter and adornments for your costume! Wear comfortable shoes and purchase fun accessories at street vendors throughout the city.
- Stay hydrated, as Rio de Janeiro can reach 40 degrees Celsius.
- Be careful with your valuables by carrying a bum bag (or fanny pack).
Why You Should Stay in Botafogo
Botafogo is one of Rio de Janeiro’s coolest neighbourhoods, popular for its nightlife, innovative bistros and sandy beach offering views of Sugarloaf Mountain. The bohemian, hipster atmosphere, top hotels near Rio Carnival and excellent transportation links make it an ideal spot to base yourself during Rio Carnival. The neighbourhood has its own street band called “Barbas”, starting its parade on Rua Arnaldo Quintela with water trucks that soak revellers as they march in the streets.
Must-Do Experiences around Botafogo
- Go swimming in the calm waters of nearby Praia Vermelha (Red Beach), which is tucked into a small bay.
- Visit Rua Nelson Mandela street to discover traditional Brazilian bars serving local snacks, cold beer and big screens showing football games.
- Enjoy live music, dancing and hookahs at Bar Bukowski, Rio’s most famous rock club.
Top Hotels near Botafogo
Ibis Rio De Janeiro Botafogo
A short walk from the Botafogo Subway, Ibis Rio De Janeiro Botafogo has easy access to the cable car that leads to Sugarloaf Mountain and is a top hotel near Rio Carnival. Standard Rooms at this budget-friendly hotel feature complimentary Wi-Fi, mini fridges and flat-screen TVs. Got the kids in tow? Standard rooms can also be configured with one extra bed for children.
Before you head out for Rio Carnival, fill up with Brazilian favourites at the buffet at Ibis Kitchen Restaurant or sample the restaurant’s a la carte options on the weekend. Later can also visit the 24-hour Pub for a variety of drinks and snacks. If you’re after nightlife, the hotel’s South Zone location is near Botafogo’s top bars.
Nearby Attractions
● The Slow Bakery (350 metres)
● Livraria da Travessa – Botafogo (350 metres)
● Museu Do Indio (800 metres)
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 53 – USD 112
Guest Rating: 8.7
Address: Rua Paulino Fernandes, 39, Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Mercure Botafogo Mourisco
In addition to a sparkling outdoor pool and fitness centre, Mercure Botafogo Mourisco is a top hotel near Rio Carnival with rooms that boast Christ the Redeemer views. Lounge with a cocktail poolside or visit Amaranto restaurant for local and international dishes. The on-site bar also serves creative cocktails in a relaxed setting.
Rooms feature private balconies with city or poolside views, as well as complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and are configured with either two twin, one double or one queen-size bed. Spacious Junior Suites boast Christ the Redeemer views in addition to a sitting area with a comfy sofa.
Nearby Attractions
● Botafogo Beach (800 metres)
● Red Beach (2.1 kilometres)
● Mureta da Urca (1.8 kilometres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 79 – USD 200
Guest Rating: 7.9
Address: Rua Da Passagem 39, Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Hotel Location
Why You Should Stay in Ipanema and Leblon
Ipanema and Leblon are two of Rio de Janeiro’s most ritzy neighbourhoods, dotted with beautiful tree-lined streets, sun-drenched stretches of sand and shopping areas. Separated by a narrow canal, the collection of top hotels near Rio Carnival have easy access to top-notch restaurants and lively bars, while during Carnival there are tons of small, spontaneous street parties to join. Two of the biggest blocos are “Banda de Ipanema” and “Simpatia é Quase Amor”.
Must-Do Experiences around Ipanema and Leblon
- Admire the Dois Irmaos (Two Brothers Peak) from the golden shores of Ipanema Beach.
- Browse the trendy restaurants and shops along Rua Dias Ferreira in Leblon.
- Shop ‘til you drop in the fashionable boutiques on Visconde de Piraja, Ipanema’s main shopping street.
Top Hotels near Ipanema and Leblon
Sol Ipanema Hotel
Just steps from the famed Ipanema Beach, Sol Ipanema Hotel offers chic, contemporary apartments with warm colour palettes and is a top hotel near Rio Carnival. Standard Rooms feature city or mountain views, air conditioning and flat-screen TVs, while Deluxe Ocean Views boast Nespresso machines and Ipanema Beach views.
HotelsCombined guests love the Italian cuisine and ocean views at Masserini Osteria di Mare, as well as the wine list that features more than 100 wines. Make a toast to Rio Carnival with sunset and beach views at the rooftop Pool Bar, the Lobby bar is open to all clients – guests and non-guests.
Nearby Attractions
● Ipanema Beach (60 metres)
● Praça General Osório (800 metres)
● Casa de Cultura Laura Alvim (400 metres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 125 – USD 278
Guest Rating: 8.2
Address: Av Vieira Souto 320, Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Arena Copacabana Hotel
Arena Copacabana Hotel is a self-proclaimed “oasis of calm and relaxation amidst Rio de Janeiro’s urban bustle”. A perfect retreat from the Rio Carnival festivities, the hotel features a rooftop terrace with a pool and poolside bar, as well as a fitness centre, steam sauna and complimentary breakfast buffet. On-site dining also includes creative seasonal fare at Fennel Restaurant.
Choose from the range of affordable, ocean-facing rooms with soundproof windows, HDTVs, queen-size beds and mini fridges. Save money in the Standard Room, which boasts city views and is ideal for solo travellers and couples, or upgrade to a Deluxe Room for direct views of Copacabana Beach. For a spacious living room, choose one of the lavish Suites.
Nearby Attractions
● Praia do Leme (1.4 kilometres)
● Parque Natural Municipal da Catacumba (2.8 kilometres)
● Copacabana Fort (2.6 kilometres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 99 – USD 247
Guest Rating: 8.8
Address: Avenida Atlantica 2064, Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Hotel Location
Why You Should Stay in Copacabana
Copacabana is one of Rio de Janeiro’s most iconic destinations, with its famed stretch of beach serving as the centrepiece between the Atlantic Ocean and the neighbourhood’s Art Deco buildings. This busy Bairro is a mix of locals, surfers and young families, and is buzzing with local restaurants and bars serving local specialties, offering some of the top hotels near Rio Carnival. During Carnival, Monobloco hosts their party on Copacabana Beach and sees over 80,000 partygoers joining the festivities.
Must-Do Experiences around Copacabana
- Head to the beach to enjoy the sunshine under an umbrella or participate in some beach volleyball action.
- Hike the scenic path at Morro do Leme for picturesque birds-eye views of the area.
- Visit Forte de Copacabana to learn about Brazil’s rich history, then dine on breakfast favourites at nearby Café 18 do Forte.
Top Hotels near Copacabana
Belmond Copacabana Palace
Belmond Copacabana Palace is an Art Deco masterpiece on Copacabana Beach, entertaining Brazil’s elite since 1923. Many of the elegant rooms and suites overlook the picturesque beach, while those looking for a 5-star Carnival experience can enjoy the hotel’s lavish spa, outdoor pool and multiple Michelin-starred restaurants, including the Ristorante Hotel Cipriani serving Italian delicacies.
Every room features fine period furniture and original artwork, as well as a flat-screen TV, mini bar and traditional Brazilian slippers. Upgrade to a Suite for a sitting area or enjoy a luxurious carnival experience in a Penthouse Suite, which has a private terrace, pool and butler services.
Nearby Attractions
● Boardwalk of Copacabana (250 metres)
● Ipanema Beach (3.7 kilometres)
● Santos Dumont Airport (7.8 kilometres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 387 – USD 2,572
Guest Rating: 9.2
Address: Avenida Atlantica 1702, Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
JW Marriott Rio de Janeiro
Located directly in front of the beach, JW Marriott Rio de Janeiro is a lavish hotel with 5-star facilities and top hotel near Rio Carnival. Most of the accommodations have ocean views, including the Deluxe Ocean View with a king-size bed and work desk. Celebrate Rio Carnival in style in a Presidential Suite, which has beach views, a telescope and living and dining rooms adorned with antique furnishings.
Get pampered with luxury spa treatments at Mirante Health Club or pair delicious Caipirinhas with international street food at Moonlounge Rooftop Bar. Afterwarrds, swim or lounge at the on-site pool or relax in the solarium or sauna. Sample authentic Brazilian dishes at The Carioca or dine alongside beach views at Terraneo Restaurant.
Nearby Attractions
● Eva Klabin Foundation (1.7 kilometres)
● Jardim Botânico do Rio de Janeiro (6 kilometres)
● Sugarloaf Mountain (6 kilometres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 267 – USD 589
Guest Rating: 8.8
Address: Avenida Atlantica, 2600, Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Hotel Location
Why You Should Stay in Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa is a hilltop district with narrow, winding streets, where picturesque squares are home to elegant mansions, art galleries, cocktail bars and restaurants boasting beautiful city views. While there are plenty of interesting cultural attractions to explore, this artsy area also has some of the top hotels near Rio Carnival and is near Ipanema and Copacabana. Make sure to check out the Ceu na Terra bloco, which is known for its brightly coloured costumes and large puppets.
Must-Do Experiences around Santa Teresa
- Take a selfie while climbing the famous Selaron steps, which are adorned with brightly coloured mosaic tiles.
- Admire the impressive pieces of Brazilian artwork in Museu da Chacara do Ceu.
- Journey from Rio’s city centre to Santa Teresa on the bright yellow Santa Teresa Tram, the oldest electric railway in Latin America.
Top Hotels near Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa Hotel RJ – MGallery
Overlooking Guanabara Bay, Santa Teresa Hotel RJ – MGallery is a top hotel near Rio Carnival, near Avenida Rio Branco, Botafogo Beach and Marina da Glória. Rooms feature mini bars, flat-screen TVs and city, mountain or garden views, while spacious Suites add four-poster beds, private balconies and separate living areas.
Tereze restaurant is a highlight of the hotel, pairing contemporary Brazilian cuisine with gorgeous bay views, in addition to the terrace lounge at Bar Dos Descasados that offers city vistas. Party until late, then relax at one of the best hotels near Rio Carnival at the outdoor pool, sauna and hot tub or book a massage treatment at Le Spa.
Nearby Attractions
● Largo do Guimarães (400 metres)
● Armazém São Thiago (180 metres)
● Solar Real (600 metres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 228 – USD 295
Guest Rating: 8.9
Address: Rua Almirante Alexandrino 660, Santa Teresa, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Vila Galé Rio de Janeiro
Set in a 19th-century palace, Vila Galé Rio de Janeiro features decor inspired by Samba, Bossa Nova and the Portuguese-Brazilian culture. Rest and recharge in this top hotel in Carnival in a Standard Room, which has free Wi-Fi, air conditioning and a flat-screen TV, or stretch out in the separate living room in an opulent Junior or Master Suite.
Dine on gourmet Mediterranean-inspired cuisine at Inevitavel or take advantage of the Turkish Bath, Jacuzzi and massage treatments at Satsanga Spa. Lounge poolside with a drink from the Pool Bar or enjoy cocktails and happy hour specials at Vinicius De Moraes Bar, which offers courtyard and garden views.
Nearby Attractions
● Bar Cachaça (400 metres)
● Station of Santa Teresa trams (1.2 kilometres)
● Teatro Riachuelo Rio (1 kilometre)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 83 – USD 163
Guest Rating: 9
Address: Rua do Riachuelo,124, Santa Teresa, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Hotel Location
Why You Should Stay in Centro
Centro is Rio de Janeiro’s bustling downtown area, a culturally rich neighbourhood with art galleries, theatres, museums and street art. It’s home to the city’s oldest streets lined with iconic landmarks such as the Paco Imperial, a former royal palace, as well as bars that date back to the 1900s. Here you’ll find some of the largest parties in town, including “Cordão do Bola Preta”, the official first party of Carnival. This bloco attracts more than a million followers every year and has a collection of top hotels near Rio Carnival.
Must-Do Experiences around Centro
- Enjoy classic Brazilian dishes inspired by street stalls, such as pastels, and live samba music at Angu do Gomes.
- See a live performance at Teatro Municipal, one of Brazil’s most beautiful and significant theatres.
- Marvel at the modern exterior of Museum of Tomorrow and browse its collection of science-related exhibits.
Top Hotels near Centro
Novotel Rio de Janeiro Santos Dumont
Novotel Rio de Janeiro Santos Dumont offers a prime city-centre location just 400 metres from Santos Dumont Airport and is one of the top hotels near Rio Carnival’s street parties. Spacious rooms feature complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and work desks, while upgraded rooms add separate sitting areas with plush sofas.
On-site dining is highlighted by 365 restaurant, which offers a 24-hour menu of Brazilian dishes. After a day of Carnival partying, visit the chic lobby bar for a cocktail or glass of wine, then take advantage of the on-site spa with a sauna and fitness centre.
Nearby Attractions
● Modern Art Museum (850 metres)
● Vivo Rio (850 metres)
● Santos Dumont light rail station (500 metres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 60 – USD 95
Guest Rating: 8.2
Address: Rua Marechal Camara 300, Centro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Arosa Rio Hotel
You’ll be a 10-minute walk from Marques de Sapucai Sambadrome’s parade area when staying at Arosa Rio Hotel during Rio Carnival. Accommodation ranges from Nuptial Suites to Family Rooms and includes air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, mini bars and room service.
Enjoy the daily breakfast and regional specialties at the A La Carte restaurant. Afterwards, unwind at the steam room or work up a sweat in the gym room. There’s also private parking for guests, a 24-hour reception and Tour Desk available.
Nearby Attractions
● Campo de Santana (800 metres)
● Sambadrome Marquês de Sapucaí (1 kilometre)
● Brazil Central Station (1.2 kilometres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 45 – USD 325
Guest Rating: 8.3
Address: Avenida Henrique Valadares 150, Centro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Hotel Location
Why You Should Stay in Lapa
Lapa is a lively Rio neighbourhood, popular for its buzzing nightlife scene with trendy bars, late-night clubs and street parties that last all night. Kick up your Carnival experience up a notch by staying in one the top hotels near Rio Carnival, where you’ll have your pick of live music clubs, dance halls and open-air samba jams. Celebrations take place every night and feature lots of drink and food stands.
Must-Do Experiences around Lapa
- Party all night at Rio Scenarium, a photogenic club with lavish decor, live music and lots of dancing.
- See the vibrant displays of eye-catching street art along the walls of Escadaria Selaron.
- Listen to national and international music at Circo Voador, a popular outdoor venue that also hosts cultural events.
Top Hotels near Lapa
Hotel Atlantico Prime
Offering affordable rooms near the festivities, Hotel Atlantico Prime is a top hotel near Rio Carnival. Save money in the Economy room, which features a double-size bed, air conditioning and cable TV, or upgrade to a Deluxe Double room for a queen-size bed.
Start your day at the complimentary buffet breakfast, then dine by candlelight at the on-site restaurant or enjoy a meal from the in-room dining menu in the privacy of your room. In addition to personalized Concierge services, the hotel also has a convention centre that can host up to 150 people, with six meeting rooms.
Nearby Attractions
● Fundição Progresso (550 metres)
● Escadaria Selaron (900 metres)
● Catedral Metropolitana de São Sebastião do Rio de Janeiro (750 metres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 61 – USD 139
Guest Rating: 8.9
Address: Rua do Resende, 87, Lapa, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Americas Copacabana Hotel
Set just three blocks from Copacabana Beach, Americas Copacabana Hotel boasts a range of affordable rooms near some of the biggest parties at Rio Carnival. Stay in a Standard Room for anti-noise windows, a LED TV and complimentary Wi-Fi, or upgrade to a Luxury Double Room for a king-size bed and city views. Travelling in a group? The Superior Triple Room has three single-size beds.
Before the Carnival festivities, you can fuel up with breakfast favourites at the buffet, while the on-site Fidalgo Restaurant also serves a menu of Brazilian and international cuisines. Afterwards, soak up the sunshine at the outdoor pool and Pool Bar, which offers views of Christ the Redeemer, or enjoy a drink in the Lobby Bar.
Nearby Attractions
● Balada Mix Restaurante (400 metres)
● Siqueira Campos – Copacabana station (550 metres)
● Parque Natural Municipal da Catacumba (2 kilometres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 71 – USD 187
Guest Rating: 8.5
Address: Avenida Atlantica 1702, Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Hotel Location
Celebrate in style in one of these top hotels near Rio Carnival
Choosing the right costume for attending the Rio Carnival and its array of lively street parties is important, but deciding where to stay in Rio de Janeiro is equally as essential. The city offers a wide variety of top hotels near Rio Carnival that cater to different travel budgets, but for the biggest party in the world, you’ll want to make sure and book your accommodation early. Stay at one of these top Rio de Janeiro hotels for on-site perks such as outdoor pools, luxury day spas and gourmet restaurants.
Where do you want to stay in Rio de Janeiro? Let us know in the comments below.
