The best free things to do in Rio de Janeiro

The iconic Real Gabinete Português de Leitura is known as one of the most stunning libraries in the world, housing over 350,000 volumes, including rare books and manuscripts. From the grand façade to the reading room, the building’s
details are jaw-dropping. You’ll feel like you’re in a Harry Potter movie, surrounded by endless shelves of books.

The Instituto Pretos Novos offers the African Heritage Circuit, starting from Largo de São Francisco da Prainha and passing by spots like Pedra do Sal, Mirante do Morro da Conceição, Valongo Hanging Garden, and Casa da Tia Ciata Cultural Space, wrapping up at the Pretos Novos Cemetery. This two-hour tour gives you deep insight into the area's role in Rio’s development. Sign up on Sympla.

Every Saturday, Feira do Lavradio presents more than 200 vendors selling antiques at various stalls. Even if you’re not buying, it’s a great historic walk as it takes place in Rio’s first residential street. Plus, there’s live music around every corner, from MPB to rock and chorinho.

Mercedes Baptista Statue. Sat 9am.

The Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil and Centro Sebrae de Referência do Artesanato Brasileiro are always free and feature high-quality exhibits. Museu do Amanhã and Museu de Arte do Rio offer free entry on Tuesdays – the first one focuses on envisioning the future, and the second showcases contemporary local art. Casa Roberto Marinho, with its own collections, is free on Wednesdays.

In 1996, Michael Jackson filmed his music video for “They Don’t Care About Us” atop Morro Santa Marta. The buzz was so big that a year after his death, a bronze statue was placed there. From the top, you’ll get a panoramic view of Rio’s iconic
landmarks. Another great lookout nearby is at Pasmado, located in Parque Yitzhak Rabin, where you can also visit Rio’s Holocaust Memorial.

Rua São Clemente, s/nº, Dona Marta

When temperatures soar and the beaches are packed, waterfalls become the go-to spot for a cool-down. Arrive early to beat the crowd and enjoy one of the most famous waterfalls in Tijuca Forest. The hike takes around 20 minutes
and passes by the Quebra and Chuveiro falls (also known as Horto waterfall).

Estrada da Vista Chinesa (Alto da Boa Vista).

Pack up some snacks and chill a bottle of white wine for a perfect picnic. We suggest sprawling out on the lawns near a pond where ducks, geese, and swans hang out. The gardens at Parque Guinle in Laranjeiras and the Museu da República in Catete are great options, especially for families with kids who can also enjoy the playgrounds.

Inside the São Bento Monastery, this church will take your breath away with its architectural beauty, from the iron gate to the stained glass windows and sacred art throughout. On Sundays at 10am, there’s a traditional Tridentine mass, accompanied by Gregorian chants.

Rua Dom Gerardo, 68, Centro. 6.30am-6.30pm.

After its makeover, the Port Zone became an open-air gallery, featuring the world’s largest graffiti mural: “Etnias” by Eduardo Kobra, covering over 3,000 square meters. You’ll also find art by Rita Wainer and a series of panels forming na art corridor along Orla Conde, with works by RafaMon and Acme.

The path around Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas stretches almost 5 miles, making it perfect for walking or jogging. There are plenty of kiosks and bars along the way, offering refreshing drinks as a reward after your workout. Biking is another
great way to take in the stunning views.