Things to do in Brazil

2 destinations in Brazil, when to visit each, and what a trip actually costs.

Places to visit in Brazil

When flights to each destination are cheapest.

Rio de Janeiro: The cheapest months to fly to Rio are May, June, and August, outside Carnival (February/March) and the December-January summer peak, where round-trip fares from major US hubs can run 30-40% lower than peak season. Flying midweek (Tuesday or Wednesday departures) adds another 10-15% in savings compared to weekend travel.
Sao Paulo: Flying to São Paulo in May-June or August-September (shoulder season, southern hemisphere winter) typically runs 20-35% cheaper than December-January peak or Carnival in February. Mid-week departures on Tuesday or Wednesday consistently undercut weekend fares by an additional 10-15%.

A day on the ground for one person travelling alone, before flights: somewhere to sleep, food, something to do and getting around.

Set your dates, budget and home airport on any destination below for a total that includes flights.

Rio de Janeiro: Ipanema Beach Sunset Watch locals gather at Arpoador Rock for a nightly sunset ritual and spontaneous applause.
Rio de Janeiro: Lapa Arches & Nightlife Stroll The 18th-century aqueduct-turned-party-hub is free to admire and buzzes with samba on weekends.
Rio de Janeiro: Parque Lage A fairytale neo-Renaissance mansion, free art school café, and trailhead into Tijuca Forest all in one spot.
Sao Paulo: Walk Avenida Paulista on Sunday The boulevard closes to cars every Sunday, becoming a massive free street festival with performers, food, and crowds
Sao Paulo: Explore the Japanese neighborhood of Liberdade Wander Asia's largest Japanese community outside Japan, lantern-lit streets, markets, and temples all free to explore
Sao Paulo: Ibirapuera Park stroll and pavilions Roam world-class Niemeyer architecture, lake paths, and free outdoor exhibitions on a single green campus

Bar do Mineiro in Rio de Janeiro, Feijoada (black bean and pork stew) with rice and farofa Plates $6-10
Restaurante Self-Service (kilo restaurants citywide) in Rio de Janeiro, Pay-by-weight buffet with rice, beans, grilled meats, and salads Plates $4-8
Confeitaria Colombo in Rio de Janeiro, Pastel de nata (custard tart) and espresso at the historic Belle Époque café counter Plates $3-7
Seu Justino in Sao Paulo, Prato feito (rice, beans, meat, salad combo) Plates $3-6
Mercadão (Mercado Municipal) in Sao Paulo, Mortadella sandwich at Bar do Mané Plates $4-7
Família Mancini (Bela Vista) in Sao Paulo, Pasta or wood-fired pizza Plates $8-14