Discover 15 amazing cities near Rio de Janeiro for a day trip! Beaches, mountains, and culture in must-see destinations
Rio de Janeiro is one of the most famous cities in Brazil. Known for its beautiful beaches, Christ the Redeemer, and Sugarloaf Mountain, the city offers many attractions, and we’ve even mentioned some of them here: “The Best Beaches in Rio de Janeiro: Where to Relax and Enjoy the Sun”. But if you've already seen these sights and want to explore more of Brazil, there are many cities near Rio de Janeiro that are worth visiting. They are perfect for a quick trip, the famous “bate e volta” (day trip). Check out the best options below along with their distances from Rio de Janeiro.
1 – Niterói – 13 km
Niterói is very close to Rio. The city has beautiful beaches, such as Praia de Icaraí, and tourist attractions like the Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC). From there, you have a stunning view of Rio de Janeiro. Niterói is ideal for those who enjoy culture and nature.
2 – Petrópolis – 68 km
Known as the "Imperial City," Petrópolis is full of history. The city features the famous Crystal Palace and the Imperial Museum, where the Brazilian royal family once lived. Petrópolis also has a cooler climate, making it perfect for those who want to escape Rio's heat.
3 – Teresópolis – 90 km
Teresópolis is a peaceful city in the mountains. It is known for the Serra dos Órgãos National Park, perfect for those who enjoy hiking and being in contact with nature. The cool climate is ideal for relaxing.
4 – Paraty – 258 km
Paraty is a historic city with cobblestone streets and old houses. It also has beautiful beaches and waterfalls. It’s a great place for those who love history, culture, and nature. Although it is a bit farther away, it is one of the most beautiful cities. perto do Rio de Janeiro.
5 – Angra dos Reis – 157 km
Angra dos Reis is famous for its islands—more than 300! The most famous is Ilha Grande, where you can take boat trips and go diving. The clear waters and preserved nature make Angra a perfect destination for sea lovers.
6 – Arraial do Cabo – 165 km
Known as the “Brazilian Caribbean,” Arraial do Cabo has beaches with turquoise-blue water. The city is great for diving and boat trips. The most famous beaches are Praia do Farol and Praia do Forno.
7 – Búzios – 176 km
Búzios is a charming city with many beaches. It is famous for Rua das Pedras, which has shops, bars, and restaurants. Búzios is the perfect destination for those who want to relax and enjoy the nightlife.
8 – Itaipava – 76 km
Itaipava is a region of Petrópolis, famous for its high-quality hotels and restaurants. It’s a great option for those who want to relax in the mountain climate, enjoy good food, and appreciate the tranquility.
9 – Cabo Frio – 155 km
Cabo Frio has beautiful beaches with white sand, such as Praia do Forte. The city is quieter than Arraial do Cabo but also has good options for restaurants and shops. It’s perfect for those who enjoy the beach and tranquility.
10 – Miguel Pereira – 120 km
Miguel Pereira is a small and peaceful town, ideal for resting. It is surrounded by mountains and has many waterfalls. The cool climate and beautiful landscapes make this city a great choice for a day trip from Rio de Janeiro.
11 – Nova Friburgo – 137 km
Nova Friburgo is a city surrounded by mountains and has a cooler climate. The city is known for its cheese and chocolate production, as well as having many options for hiking trails and waterfalls. It's great for those who love nature and peaceful outings.
12 – Saquarema – 100 km
Saquarema is known as the "surfing capital." The city has beautiful beaches, such as Praia de Itaúna, which attracts surfers from all over the world. If you love the beach and sports, Saquarema is the perfect destination.
13 – Penedo – 174 km
Penedo is a small Finnish colony, known for its pleasant climate and beautiful landscapes. The city has waterfalls and hiking trails, and the town center is full of artisan chocolate shops and restaurants offering typical food. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy nature.
14 – Lumiar – 156 km
Lumiar is a simple and welcoming village located in the mountains of Nova Friburgo. The town is surrounded by rivers and waterfalls, making it perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of big cities and enjoy tranquility. It’s ideal for ecotourism lovers.
15 – Conservatória – 142 km
Conservatória is known as the "City of Serenades." On weekends, the streets are filled with outdoor serenades. It’s a historic place with a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for those who love music, culture, and history.
