Slow Down to See Rio… by Bike

One of the most interesting and cool ways to explore Rio de Janeiro is riding a bike. As an ecological means of transportation, it is increasingly being used by Cariocas, either for commuting to work or simply for having fun.

There are several routes for cycling through the most charming parts of the city such as the Zona Sul and Centro. We suggest routes in which postcards, curiosities, history, cultural attractions and Cariocas’ way of life are melted into the landscape.

The tour first takes us through the charming neighborhood of Leblon, an area full of coffee places and bookstores, and then to Ipanema beach, an area known for its laid-back atmosphere – a perfect spot to enjoy an açai or a natural juice at specialized juice shops. Afterwards we can reach the Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas, a lagoon that is not only a meeting place for rowing athletes but also a perfect setting for a picnic.

On the way from there to the city center, we explore the long beach of Copacabana – a place known by its eclectic people and architectural style; then through the photogenic neighborhood of Urca and afterwards through Botafogo beach, a scene dotted with boats and barges.

Throughout the way, our guides are able to tell a bit more about the history of the many attractions and monuments that we find along the bike ride such as Forte de Copacabana, Parque do Flamengo, Museu de Arte Moderna, Outeiro da Glória, Marina da Gloria, not forgetting the Sugar Loaf and the Corcovado. It is simply a must stopping every now and then for a fresh coconut water to contemplate the many reasons why Rio is considered the Marvelous City.