Expat communities

Rio De Janeiro is home to a vibrant expat community, drawn to the city's dynamic lifestyle, natural beauty, and work opportunities in tourism, oil, and tech. While smaller than those in São Paulo, expat hubs thrive in neighborhoods like Ipanema and Barra da Tijuca. International social groups, language exchanges, and coworking spaces create opportunities for connection. Join our community of over 150 members who have relocated to Rio De Janeiro! Connect with fellow expats, share experiences, and build your network in one of the world’s most diverse cities.

Co-Working spaces

We partner with IWG - International Workplace Group, a leading co-working provider to offer exclusive benefits to our users available in Rio De Janeiro (Regus). Sign up to discover more partners details.

Here are some popular co-working spaces in Rio De Janeiro:

• ‍WeWork: Multiple locations in key neighborhoods like Botafogo and Centro. Features modern amenities, high-speed Wi-Fi, private offices, and networking events.‍
• Regus: Offers flexible workspace solutions, including professional meeting rooms, lounges, and virtual office services. Locations in neighborhoods like Barra da Tijuca and Centro.‍
• My Office: Located in Leblon and Barra da Tijuca, it features high-end co-working spaces. Offers shared desks, private offices, and meeting rooms for professionals and small businesses.‍
• House of Work: A creative co-working space in Botafogo, ideal for freelancers and remote teams. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, community events, and excellent amenities.

Public workspaces

For those who prefer public workspaces, Rio De Janeiro has a range of options:

• ‍Real Gabinete Português de Leitura: A historical library with free Wi-Fi, quiet study zones, and an inspiring environment.‍
• Cafeterias in Zona Sul: Cafes like Café do Alto and Café Secreto provide a cozy atmosphere with strong Wi-Fi and great coffee.‍
• Praia do Flamengo: The open-air park along Flamengo Beach offers scenic spots to work outdoors with good connectivity.

Company presence

Rio De Janeiro is Brazil’s second-largest business hub, excelling in industries like energy, tourism, media, and technology:

• Energy: Headquarters for Petrobras, one of the world’s largest oil companies, and other energy sector giants.
• Tourism: A global destination, hosting major hotel chains and travel companies.
• Media/entertainment: Home to TV Globo, Latin America’s largest media company, and a hub for film production.
• Technology: Growing tech scene with startups and established firms in software and fintech.
• Finance: Regional offices for banks like Bradesco and Itaú, alongside investment firms focused on Brazilian markets.

Startup culture

Rio De Janeiro’s startup ecosystem is thriving, supported by incubators, accelerators, and innovation hubs:

• Fábrica de Startups: A major accelerator offering mentoring, networking, and funding opportunities.
• Startup Rio: A government-backed program supporting early-stage startups with resources and education.
• Oceans Labs: Focused on fintech and AI, fostering cutting-edge innovation in Rio’s business districts.

The city is growing in fields like tourism tech, fintech, and green energy, with startups like MaxMilhas and Hurb leading the way.

Networking opportunities

Rio offers plenty of opportunities for professionals and entrepreneurs to connect:

• Meetup Rio Tech: Regular meetups bringing together Rio’s tech community for networking and learning.
• Startup Weekend Rio: A global event series helping entrepreneurs develop business ideas in 54 hours.
• LinkedIn Local Rio: Informal meetups aimed at fostering professional connections across industries.
• Nex and WeWork Events: These co-working spaces frequently host workshops, networking sessions, and community meetups.

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Attractions

Rio De Janeiro is a city of iconic landmarks and natural wonders. Here are some must-visit attractions and experiences:

• Christ the Redeemer: One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this colossal statue atop Corcovado Mountain offers panoramic views of the city and is a symbol of Brazil’s cultural and spiritual identity.
• Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar): A must-see peak accessible by cable car, providing breathtaking views of Rio’s coastline, beaches, and bustling city.
• Copacabana Beach: A lively 4-kilometer stretch of sand lined with kiosks, cafes, and bars, perfect for relaxing, swimming, or enjoying vibrant nightlife.
• Tijuca National Park: The world’s largest urban rainforest, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning viewpoints like Vista Chinesa, ideal for nature enthusiasts.
• Maracanã Stadium: A historic football arena that has hosted World Cup finals and concerts, offering guided tours for sports fans and history buffs.
• Selarón Steps (Escadaria Selarón): A vibrant staircase adorned with colorful tiles from around the world, a testament to Rio’s artistic and multicultural spirit.
• Ipanema Beach: Known for its sophisticated vibe, crystal-clear waters, and legendary sunsets, immortalized in the song "The Girl from Ipanema."
• Lapa Arches (Arcos da Lapa): A historic aqueduct that serves as a tram bridge by day and the heart of Rio’s samba-fueled nightlife by night.
• Santa Teresa Neighborhood: A charming hilltop area with cobblestone streets, colonial mansions, art studios, and eclectic cafes.

Festivals and holidays

Festivals

• Rio Carnival (February/March): The world’s largest carnival, featuring samba parades, vibrant costumes, and street parties. A dazzling celebration of Brazilian culture.
• New Year’s Eve at Copacabana (Réveillon): A massive beachfront celebration with live music, dancing, and fireworks drawing millions to Copacabana Beach.
• Rock in Rio (Biennial): One of the biggest music festivals globally, showcasing top international and Brazilian artists.

Holidays

• Independence Day (September 7): Marked by parades, celebrations, and national pride.
• Christmas (December 25): Rio transforms with light displays and events, including a floating Christmas tree on Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon.
• Nossa Senhora da Aparecida (October 12): A public holiday honoring Brazil’s patron saint with church services and celebrations.

Local celebrities

Rio has produced influential figures across various fields. Here are some of its celebrated names:

• Pelé: The legendary footballer, often regarded as the greatest player of all time, was born near Rio and remains a global icon.
• Carmen Miranda: A renowned singer and actress who became Brazil’s first international film star, known for her iconic fruit hats and samba songs.
• Fernanda Montenegro: An Academy Award-nominated actress and one of Brazil’s most respected cultural icons.

Fun fact

The Selarón Steps in Santa Teresa were created by Chilean artist Jorge Selarón, who dedicated decades to covering them with tiles from around the world. They have become a symbol of Rio’s creative spirit and cultural diversity.

Local cuisine

Rio De Janeiro’s culinary scene reflects the richness of Brazilian flavors and influences. Here are some must-try dishes and experiences:

• Feijoada: Brazil’s national dish, a hearty black bean stew with pork, traditionally served with rice, farofa (toasted cassava flour), and orange slices.
• Coxinha: A savory snack shaped like a teardrop, filled with shredded chicken and cream cheese, then fried to perfection.
• Açaí Bowl: A refreshing and healthy treat made from frozen açaí berries, often topped with granola, fruits, and honey.
• Pão de Queijo: Chewy cheese bread made from tapioca flour, a beloved Brazilian breakfast or snack.
• Caipirinha: Brazil’s national cocktail, made with cachaça, lime, sugar, and ice, perfect for sipping on the beach.

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Do’s and Don’ts

✅ Do embrace local culture. Participate in Rio’s festivals like Carnival and try traditional Brazilian dishes like feijoada and pão de queijo.

✅ Do learn basic Portuguese, knowing a few key phrases like “obrigado” (thank you) goes a long way, especially outside tourist areas.

✅ Do stay alert in crowded areas. Keep your belongings secure to avoid pickpocketing, especially in tourist hotspots like Copacabana and Lapa.

❌ Don’t flaunt valuables. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or flashing electronics in public to minimize the risk of theft.

❌ Don’t assume every area is safe. Research neighborhoods before exploring, as safety can vary significantly within the city.

❌ Don’t ignore beach etiquette. Brespectful of others' space and clean up after yourself when enjoying Rio’s beaches.

Tipping

Tipping is customary in Rio De Janeiro and appreciated for most services.

• Restaurants: A 10% service charge is often included in the bill. If not, tipping 10-15% is customary.
• Bars: R$2–R$5 per drink or a small tip with the total bill is common.
• Taxis: Round up to the nearest real or add a small tip for good service.
• Hotels: R$5–R$10 per bag for bellhops and R$5–R$10 per night for housekeeping.

Note: Tipping is not mandatory but is seen as a gesture of appreciation for good service.

Equivalent services & platforms

^{Taxi service} _{99Taxi, Uber}

^Supermarket _{Pão de Açúcar, Zona Sul}

^Messaging _{WhatsApp, Telegram}

^{Food delivery} _{iFood, Rappi}

^{Internet provider} _{Claro, Vivo}

^Bank _{Itaú, Bradesco}

^{Hotel booking} _{Booking.com, Airbnb}

^Streaming _{Netflix, Spotify, Amazon Prime}

Apps to download before arrival

^{Navigation & transit} _{Google Maps, Moovit}

^Ride-hailing _{Uber, 99 Taxi}

^{Food & dining} _{iFood, Rappi, OpenTable}

^{Daily essentials} _{Mercado Livre, OLX}

^{Currency & language} _{XE Currency, Google Translate}

^{Weather & city info} _{Climatempo, Visit Rio Official Guide}

Disclaimer: This city guide is based on personal research, experiences, and various online sources. While we strive for accuracy and inclusivity, the content is generalized and may not reflect all individual circumstances or perspectives. Readers are encouraged to double-check information for accuracy and relevance to their specific needs. Updated as of November 2024, this guide is for informational purposes only. We disclaim all liability for decisions made based on this guide.

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