Rio de Janeiro / 10 photo spots
10 Instagram spots around Rio de Janeiro
From the curves of the coast to tiled stairs and hilltop views, Rio offers striking contrasts. These ten places suggest different ways to frame the city.
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Photo spots on the map
7 of 10 photo ideas have sourced location coordinates. The initial view is for orientation. An area marker does not indicate an exact photo position.
Select a highlighted number to show its sourced location on the map. Every name links to the photo spot.
If the map does not load, use the OpenStreetMap link or the photo spot list.
All photo spots
- Christ the RedeemerSourced place
- Copacabana BeachApproximate area
- Maracanã StadiumSourced place
- Escadaria SelarónSourced place
- ArpoadorApproximate area
- Sugarloaf MountainApproximate area
- Parque LageApproximate area
Map data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL.
Destination reference: GeoNames (CC BY 4.0). Spot coordinates: Wikidata, CC0. Selection, association and some calculations by You, Me, Away.
Christ the Redeemer
The open arms of Christ the Redeemer make a striking silhouette above Rio. Leave room around the statue to include the surrounding peaks and sky.
Search Google MapsCopacabana Beach
Copacabana pairs a broad sweep of sand with the city behind it. Follow the curve of the shore through the frame for a sense of scale.
Search Google MapsArcos da Lapa
The long row of arches gives this landmark a strong rhythm. Photograph the aqueduct from an angle to let the repeating shapes recede into the distance.
Search Google MapsMaracanã Stadium
Maracanã brings another scale to Rio’s cityscape. Step back for a wide view of the stadium, or concentrate on the curves and lines of its exterior.
Search Google MapsEscadaria Selarón
The tiles on the Selarón Steps create a dense patchwork of colours and patterns. Shoot along the staircase, then look for a small detail that stands alone.
Search Google MapsArpoador
At Arpoador, the end of Ipanema Beach meets the ocean. Use the shoreline and rocks to lead the eye toward the horizon in a wide composition.
Search Google MapsSugarloaf Mountain
Sugarloaf Mountain rises above the water and is linked to a cableway. Frame its distinctive outline with a cable car or the bay for context.
Search Google MapsJardim Botânico
Rio’s botanical garden provides a green counterpoint to its beaches and streets. Look for a path through the vegetation to give the photograph depth.
Search Google MapsMirante Dona Marta
From Mirante Dona Marta, the city unfolds below with Sugarloaf and Guanabara Bay in view. Layer nearby rooftops against the distant mountain and water.
Search Google MapsParque Lage
Parque Lage combines forest and cultural spaces near Corcovado. Use the greenery as a natural frame and allow the park’s architecture to anchor the image.
Search Google Maps