Where to stay in Rio de Janeiro

Advice on budget, affordable and luxury accommodation in Rio de Janeiro.

Budget accommodation

Ace Backpackers literally does what it says on the tin. Based off Botafogo Beach, it is an ideal place to meet up and go out with like-minded travellers, while staff are helpful to the point of embarrassment, sorting out any problems you may encounter, such as losing passports or running out of money.

Another beach-side hostel is Ipanema Wave, ideal for beach bums and surfers. Staff at the hostel will even coach those who want to learn to surf, while those who just want to chill out with a drink can slip down to the lagoon and lounge in the shade.

Affordable accommodation

The Copacabana Rio is close to the one of the world's most famous beaches, but if you do not fancy a day on the sand, there is always the heated rooftop pool to enjoy, which offers impressive views of the sea and the surrounding area. It is also close to the raucous nightlife of Copacabana, making it an ideal base for a late night on the tiles.

A marble interior at the Martinique Copa on Rua Sa Ferreira provides a welcome cooling effect from the searing Rio heat, especially given that most people staying there will be spending the day on the nearby beach.

Luxury accommodation

An older palatial residence and all the more charming for it, the Copacabana Palace Hotel is directly opposite the beach. Stepping in and out of the hotel, it feels like moving between different worlds: the modern, buzz of Rio itself and the placid, traditional cool of the Palace, it is a haven for romantics in Rio.

A little out of the way, but therefore quieter and less touristy, is the Marina All Suites in Leblon. The rooms are equipped with kitchenettes, giving you a degree of autonomy, though the hotel's restaurant is popular with residents and trendy locals alike.