BOOK COPACABANA PALACE, A BELMOND HOTEL, RIO DE JANEIRO (in cooperation with Booking.com)

Perched on the sands of Copacabana Beach for over a century, the Belmond-managed Copacabana Palace is a true icon of Rio de Janeiro. Unanimously regarded as one of the best hotels in the Rio (with many claiming it as the best), this historic beachfront property on Avenida Atlântica offers breathtaking views of Copacabana Beach, Morro do Leme to the left, and Fort Copacabana and the Cagarras Islands to the right. Although the hotel underwent multiple renovations to meet the highest requirements of a demanding clientele, its timeless elegance remains intact.

Many of the hotel's spacious rooms boast stunning sea views, a luxurious perk for those fortunate to stay in this vibrant city. The Pan-Asian restaurant Mee, which opened in 2014, has quickly become one of Rio's trendiest dining spots and is well worth a visit. Start your day with a delicious breakfast, savor fresh tropical fruits, and then step across Avenida Atlântica to the world-famous Copacabana Beach—Havaianas in hand; you've just embraced the spirit of a true Carioca.

HOTEL VIEW: COPACABANA BEACH, AVENIDA ATLÂNTICA, LEME MOUNTAIN, FORT COPACABANA, CAGARRAS ISLANDS

BOOK FASANO RIO DE JANEIRO (in cooperation with Booking.com)

Meet one of Rio's most exclusive hotels: Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro, a luxurious five-star beachfront property set on the iconic Ipanema Beach—the ultimate spot to see and be seen. The hotel's sleek design is the brainchild of Rogério Fasano and world-renowned designer Philippe Starck, who teamed up to open this hospitality gem in 2007.

This 99-room hip hotel exudes sophisticated style, with designer touches woven into every detail. One of its standout features is the stunning rooftop pool, offering neck-twisting views of the Arpoador rocks, Ipanema Beach, and the Morro dos Dois Irmãos (Two Brothers Mountains). The sunsets from here are nothing short of spectacular; these are best enjoyed from the panoramic rooftop bar, where cheerful guests often clap at the natural beauty that unfolds before their eyes. As they glance behind, guests are also rewarded with a fabulous view of the majestic Christ the Redeemer statue ("Cristo Redentor" or simply "Cristo" to locals), among Rio's most famous landmarks.

The chic rooms, many of which offer sweeping ocean views, captivate when guests draw back the curtains. For those resting their bags at suite 707, dubbed the "Seventh Heaven," the expansive vistas are second to none.

Also worth mentioning is the contemporary Italian restaurant Gero, which dazzles patrons with divine risottos and pasta fresca delicacies despite not offering any views.

HOTEL VIEW: IPANEMA BEACH, ARPOADOR, LEBLON BEACH, TWO BROTHERS MOUNTAIN, AVENIDA VIEIRA SOUTO, CAGARRAS ISLANDS, CHRIST THE REDEEMER

BOOK JANEIRO HOTEL (in cooperation with Booking.com)

Formerly known as Marina All Suites, JANEIRO Hotel is a tropical-chic boutique hotel located in the prestigious Leblon neighborhood, directly overlooking Leblon Beach. The hotel opened in 2019 after a renovation that took meticulous attention to detail, with the approval of Oskar Metsavaht, the visionary founder of carioca fashion label Osklen.

Many of its stylish and spacious 51 rooms and suites offer stunning ocean views, capturing the essence of Rio with elegant, understated luxury. There are no more than five suites per floor, so exclusivity reigns. While the seafront accommodations represent the ultimate indulgence, the lateral units also have the privilege of a sneak peek into the Atlantic.

To truly embrace the city's vibe, head to the hotel's 18th floor, its highest floor, and indulge in a serene moment at its stunning marble infinity pool. The pool faces the sea and offers unparalleled relaxation. Sharing the same space is a little bar.

Situated at the intersection of Avenida Delfim Moreira and Bartolomeu Mitre, JANEIRO is a short walk to the legendary Bibi Sucos (freshly made natural juices and açaí bowls) and just a 10-minute walk from the upscale Rua Dias Ferreira, a charming street home to some of Rio's finest restaurants and designer boutiques.

HOTEL VIEW: IPANEMA BEACH, ARPOADOR, LEBLON BEACH, TWO BROTHERS MOUNTAIN, AVENIDA VIEIRA SOUTO, CAGARRAS ISLANDS, CHRIST THE REDEEMER

BOOK EMILIANO RIO (in cooperation with Booking.com)

When we think of "tropical sophistication," Emiliano Rio immediately comes to mind. Following in the footsteps of its renowned São Paulo counterpart, the Arthur Casas-designed Emiliano Rio brought a breath of fresh air to Copacabana Beach when it opened in 2016 along Rio's most iconic shoreline. Among the luxurious 90 rooms and suites, the pristine waterfront units—our favorites—feature sleek Brazilian modernist chairs, private balconies, walk-in showers, and breathtaking sea views that are impossible to ignore. For additional privacy, smartly placed shutters were installed.

If securing an ocean-facing room proves impossible, heading to the L-shaped rooftop pool will bring enough consolation. Guests can work on their tans while enjoying uninterrupted 180-degree views of the ocean, Copacabana sands, and Sugarloaf Mountain.

A final tip: no stay at this luxury hotel is complete without dining at the Emile Restaurant, one of the finest contemporary, Brazilian-inspired dining experiences in Rio de Janeiro.

HOTEL VIEW: COPACABANA BEACH, AVENIDA ATLÂNTICA, LEME MOUNTAIN, SUGARLOAF, FORT COPACABANA, CAGARRAS ISLANDS

BOOK MIRAMAR HOTEL BY WINDSOR (in cooperation with Booking.com)

Situated next to Post 5 of Copacabana Beach, Miramar Hotel by Windsor is one of the best hotels in Rio de Janeiro with a view. They say an image can be worth a thousand words and this couldn't be any more true in this case (How many rooftop pools have you been to with such a splendid sea view?) Sophisticated rooms at luxury hotel Miramar Hotel by Windsor have the signature of Paola Ribeiro, a renowned local architect. Across Avenida Atlântica, guests will be able to enjoy the beach service provided by the hotel - definitely a nice perk to make your stay in Rio de Janeiro even more pleasant.

HOTEL VIEW: COPACABANA BEACH, AVENIDA ATLÂNTICA, LEME MOUNTAIN, SUGARLOAF, FORT COPACABANA, CAGARRAS ISLANDS

BOOK VILA SANTA TERESA (in cooperation with Booking.com)

With no more than seven rooms and suites, Vila Santa Teresa offers breathtaking panoramas from its hilltop perch in the vibrant Santa Teresa neighborhood for those seeking more than just a sea view. At this family-run property, guests are treated to sweeping vistas, including the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain, the twinkling lights of Botafogo's boats, planes taking off and landing at Santos Dumont Airport, and the stunning mountains encircling the city. This exclusive boutique hotel, dating from the golden 1920s, is in a class of its own, boasting beautifully landscaped gardens (its grounds once were a coffee plantation), stylish and meticulously detailed décor, spacious and airy rooms, and a serene swimming pool. The romantic Master Suite, "Claudia," perhaps the best in the house, amazes guests with jaw-dropping vistas and a bathtub sunk into Carrara marble flooring. In addition, Vila Santa Teresa is known for offering one of the finest hotel breakfasts in Rio, making every morning a delight.

HOTEL VIEW: SUGARLOAF, BOTAFOGO, GUANABARA BAY, MOUNTAINS

BOOK SANTA TERESA HOTEL RJ - MGALLERY (in cooperation with Booking.com)

Santa Teresa Hotel RJ - MGallery ranks high as a boutique gem in the artsy Santa Teresa district. This charming retreat offers panoramic views of Guanabara Bay, the Santa Teresa de Jesus Church, and the picturesque rooftops of the surrounding neighborhood. Enveloped in lush greenery, the hotel exudes the atmosphere of a private villa, making guests feel more like they're staying in an exclusive home rather than a hotel.

The standout feature is the panoramic outdoor pool, elevated to offer spectacular views of the horizon—particularly stunning at sunset. Adding to the romantic allure of this hotel is its iconic "Bar dos Descasados" (roughly translated as "The Unmarried Bar"), where the dramatic scenery and perfectly curated lighting create the ultimate setting for romance.

Guests can also indulge in Térèze, the hotel's chic restaurant that blends French and Brazilian flavors. With its tranquil atmosphere, Santa Teresa Hotel RJ - MGallery provides a peaceful escape for those seeking an intimate retreat away from Rio's busier hotspots while still being surrounded by the charm of Brazil's most photographed city.

HOTEL VIEW: GUANABARA BAY, SANTA TERESA DE JESUS CHURCH, CHRIST THE REDEEMER

BOOK FAIRMONT RIO DE JANEIRO COPACABANA (in cooperation with Booking.com)

The Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana, located at the southern tip of Copacabana Beach, has swiftly established itself as one of Rio's best luxury hotels since opening in 2020. Its enviable location offers stunning views of the ocean and iconic landmarks like Sugarloaf Mountain.

The hotel's design, masterminded by architect Patrícia Anastassiadis, blends mid-century modern sophistication with Brazilian influences. It features designer touches from icons such as Jorge Zalszupin and Sergio Rodrigues. The result is a warm, inviting space with wood-paneled floors, aquamarine accents, and ocean-facing balconies, perfect for admiring panoramic views while hydrating with a coconut in hand.

Guests are particularly fond of the impeccable service and attention to detail. The two outdoor pools, including an infinity pool overlooking Copacabana Beach, offer a tranquil retreat. The Willow Stream Spa enhances the relaxation experience with its extensive menu of treatments.

Dining at the Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana is another highlight. The Marine Restô serves Brazilian cuisine with French influences, and the Coa & Co Café provides the perfect spot for sampling a refreshing açaíwith a view. At the hotel's doorstep, guests shouldn't miss having fun on a stand-up padel board or having a coffee at the historic Confeitaria Colombo—Café do Forte, also with sublime vistas.

HOTEL VIEW: COPACABANA BEACH, AVENIDA ATLÂNTICA, LEME MOUNTAIN, SUGARLOAF, FORT COPACABANA, IPANEMA BEACH, TWO BROTHERS MOUNTAIN

BOOK HILTON COPACABANA RIO DE JANEIRO (in cooperation with Booking.com)

The Hilton Copacabana Rio de Janeiro, located at the intersection of Avenida Princesa Isabel and Avenida Atlântica, is a 5-star hotel offering luxurious accommodations on the eastern end of Copacabana Beach. As the tallest building in the area, this 39-floor property provides breathtaking panoramic views of Sugarloaf Mountain, the entire stretch of Copacabana Beach, and Rio’s most famous landmarks. Despite the bustling Avenida below, the ocean-facing suites on the upper floors are particularly prized for their vistas and quiet atmosphere.

Opened in 2017 as Hilton’s 100th property in Latin America, the hotel features 545 accommodations, many with expansive sea views. Guests can relax at the rooftop pool, dine at Clarice Restaurant under the guidance of chef Pablo Ferreyra, or unwind at the 38th-floor Spa Anna Pegova. The rooftop Isabel Lounge offers stunning open-air views, making it a perfect spot to enjoy Rio’s beauty.

For retail opportunities, the hotel is a short drive from Rio Sul Shopping Center, the largest in the Copacabana area.

HOTEL VIEW: COPACABANA BEACH, AVENIDA ATLÂNTICA, LEME MOUNTAIN, SUGARLOAF, FORT COPACABANA, CHRIST THE REDEEMER, CAGARRAS ISLANDS

BOOK PESTANA ATLANTICA (in cooperation with Booking.com)

Words don't do justice to the astounding Copacabana Beach views enjoyed from Pestana Rio Atlantica, one of the top hotels in Copacabana. The hotel's rooftop bar is a magical place where the hotel's international crowd often mingles with locals. The pool is also special and also benefits from the fact that it stands sixteen floors above Copacabana Beach's sands. Rooms are contemporary and comfortable, some featuring balconies with partial sea views. Pestana Rio Atlantica is a beachfront Rio hotel, near Post 4 and within walking distance of of restaurants and bars in Copacabana.

HOTEL VIEW: COPACABANA BEACH, AVENIDA ATLÂNTICA, LEME MOUNTAIN, SUGARLOAF, FORT COPACABANA, CAGARRAS ISLANDS, TWO BROTHERS MOUNTAIN, PEDRA DA GÁVEA MOUNTAIN

BOOK GRAND HYATT RIO DE JANEIRO (in cooperation with Booking.com)

Until 2016, Rio visitors had been craving for a long time for a truly upscale, beach resort in the city - and then Grand Hyatt Rio de Janeiro came along. Located in Barra da Tijuca, opposite to several kilometres of beaches (including Reserva) and featuring a fabulous outdoor pool and spa, the hotel offers 3 high-quality on-site restaurants. Guests staying at Grand Hyatt Rio de Janeiro can choose between waking up to a spectacular sea view or a more serene lagoon view - one of the tough choices those visiting Rio will have to face. The hotel is a short drive away from some of the area’s best shopping malls such as Rio Design, Barra Shopping and affluent Village Mall.

HOTEL VIEW: BARRA BEACH, MARAPENDI LAGOON, MOUNTAINS

BOOK HILTON BARRA RIO DE JANEIRO (in cooperation with Booking.com)

As one of Rio de Janeiro's newest hotels, Hilton Barra Rio de Janeiro delivers exceptional facilities and the flawless service to match. This luxury hotel is located in Barra da Tijuca, in a region that has been increasingly developed as a result of Rio 2016 Olympics. Barra da Tijuca beautiful beaches can be reached, within a 10-minute drive. Barra Olympic Park and RioCentro Convention Centre are also within easy-reach from the hotel. Rooms at Hilton Barra Rio de Janeiro are ultra-modern and feature all the expected amenities of a true five-star hotel. Our favorite venue of the hotel has to be its spectacular rooftop pool with fascinating views onto the mountains and surrounding lagoons.

HOTEL VIEW: PEDRA DA GÁVEA MOUNTAIN, JACAREPAGUÁ LAGOON, TIJUCA LAGOON

BOOK PORTO BAY RIO (in cooperation with Booking.com)

Before heading to Bossa Lounge, the rooftop at Porto Bay Rio, ensure your smartphone or camera is fully charged—you'll need it for endless photo opportunities. The rooftop pool offers one of the most breathtaking views in Rio de Janeiro, and it's hard to resist capturing the stunning panorama of Copacabana Beach and the ocean beyond. Porto Bay Rio, one of our top picks in Copacabana, features 117 rooms with partial or full sea views, ensuring that the scenery is never far from sight.

The thoughtfully designed rooms, with calming interiors and elegant wood accents, create a relaxing atmosphere for guests. While the rooms are a delight, the true highlight is the unbeatable view over Copacabana, also available to guests who decide to stay fit by visiting the on-site, 20th-floor panoramic gym.

Located in the heart of Copacabana, the hotel is surrounded by countless restaurants and bars, thus making it an excellent starting point for exploring the lively area.

HOTEL VIEW: COPACABANA BEACH, AVENIDA ATLÂNTICA, LEME MOUNTAIN, SUGARLOAF, FORT COPACABANA, CHRIST THE REDEEMER, CAGARRAS ISLANDS

BOOK SOL IPANEMA HOTEL (in cooperation with Booking.com)

When it comes to location, it's very hard to beat Sol Ipanema Hotel. This 4-star hotel lies in front of Ipanema Beach, steps away from the famous Posto 9. The view, well, the view is magnificent, absolutely stunning, be it day or night. Rio de Janeiro mornings, at Sol Ipanema Hotel start with a breakfast at the hotel's beachfront restaurant, also featuring sublime sea views. Saving the best for last, one of the hotel's highlights is the view enjoyed from the rooftop (or as cariocas would say, from the "cobertura") - Ipanema Beach sands and sea in front, Two Brothers Mountain to the right and Christ the Redeemer behind you. A block away, guests at this Rio hotel will be given the opportunity to try the delicious Brazilian picanha at Garota de Ipanema restaurant (where they say Tom Jobim wrote the world-acclaimed song Garota de Ipanema).

HOTEL VIEW: IPANEMA BEACH, LEBLON BEACH, TWO BROTHERS MOUNTAIN, AVENIDA VIEIRA SOUTO, CAGARRAS ISLANDS, CHRIST THE REDEEMER

BOOK WINDSOR EXCELSIOR COPACABANA (in cooperation with Booking.com)

Windsor Excelsior Copacabana is a standout four-star hotel offering a prime beachfront location on Rio's iconic Copacabana Beach. With stunning ocean views and proximity to landmarks like Sugarloaf Mountain, the hotel is perfect for travelers seeking both comfort and breathtaking scenery. Many of the well-appointed rooms feature expansive sea views, and the rooftop pool offers a relaxing spot to soak up the sun while enjoying the panoramic vistas of Copacabana.

Located on Avenida Atlântica, right next to the renowned Copacabana Palace, the Windsor Excelsior is surrounded by top-notch restaurants and bars, making it an ideal base for exploring Rio's vibrant culture. Guests who happen to be in Copacabana on a Sunday will have the chance to walk along its famous boardwalk, which is closed to all car traffic, joining thousands of locals in this lifestyle ritual.

HOTEL VIEW: COPACABANA BEACH, AVENIDA ATLÂNTICA, LEME MOUNTAIN, FORT COPACABANA, CHRIST THE REDEEMER, CAGARRAS ISLANDS

BOOK PRODIGY SANTOS DUMONT (in cooperation with Booking.com)

Missing a flight at Santos Dumont Airport might have its silver linings, especially for those staying at the Prodigy Santos Dumont, a sleek, contemporary hotel offering stunning views of the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain. Guests are invited to start their day with a mouth-watering rooftop breakfast featuring an array of tropical fruits while soaking in the spectacular vistas over Guanabara Bay. Due to its connection to the airport, breakfasts start in the first hours of the day, thus providing the perfect opportunity to witness a spectacular sunrise on "Cidade Maravilhosa." For those who don't have a flight to catch, and after a relaxing morning by the hotel's stylish panoramic pool, it's easy to explore Rio's cultural gems nearby. The Modern Art Museum and the futuristic Museum of Tomorrow are nearby and offer a glimpse of the city's rich artistic and architectural landscape, proving that Rio and its center are much more than its famous beaches and natural beauty. It is a case to say if only all airport hotels were like this.

HOTEL VIEW: SUGARLOAF, CHRIST THE REDEEMER, GUANABARA BAY

BOOK LA SUITE BY DUSSOL (in cooperation with Booking.com)

La Suite by Dussol, or simply La Suite as it is often referred to, is the second boutique hotel by François Xavier Dussol. After La Maison, La Suite was a clear attempt to keep things personal. To be fair, we can't think of any other Rio de Janeiro hotel with a better view than La Suite: from the infinity pool, we find ourselves surrounded by the ocean and Rio's spectacular greenish mountains. 7 color-theme suites to choose from, all with astonishing ocean views. There's a helipad available in case you feel like arriving by helicopter (only a short haul over the coastline, if you come from nearby Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas). La Suite by Dussol is next to Joatinga Beach, strategically located between São Conrado and Barra da Tijuca. Zona Sul (Leblon, Ipanema, Copacabana, etc.) can be reached after a short-drive (take Avenida Niemeyer, as this road is absolutely scenic). La Suite by Dussol is most certainly one of the top boutique hotels in Rio de Janeiro with a view.

HOTEL VIEW: OCEAN, TWO BROTHERS MOUNTAIN, PEDRA DA GÁVEA MOUNTAIN, CHRIST THE REDEEMER

BOOK MAMA RUISA BOUTIQUE HOTEL (in cooperation with Booking.com)

Mama Ruisa, a charming boutique hotel in Rio de Janeiro, is the ideal retreat for those looking for something different, a place to relax and unwind from Rio's bustling atmosphere. Mama Ruisa offers seven rooms, each with its own personality or theme (for instance there is a room dedicated to Portuguese-Brazilian diva singer Carmen Miranda). The cherry on top of the cake is the view that you'll be able to enjoy from your private room: the iconic Sugarloaf mountain and Guanabara Bay on the horizon. We highly recommend a stay at this unique mansion in the Santa Teresa area. Mama Ruisa is near Largo do Guimarães, Santa Teresa's bohemian enclave (nevertheless, Mama Ruisa enjoys the quietness and silence you're looking for).

HOTEL VIEW: SUGARLOAF, GUANABARA BAY