Nine must-see experiences in Rio de Janeiro during Lady Gaga's Copacabana concert

On May 3rd, Copacabana Beach will host an unprecedented event: a free concert by Lady Gaga, one of the most influential artists in contemporary pop. This show promises to be one of the most memorable performances in one of the world's most iconic cityscapes. Taking advantage of this unique opportunity, a selection of experiences is being offered that will allow you to fully understand the cultural, natural, and culinary diversity of Rio de Janeiro and its surrounding areas.

1. Samba at Pedra do Sal
Located in the city's historic center, Pedra do Sal is one of the main symbols of Afro-Brazilian culture and is considered the birthplace of samba in Rio. This heritage site transforms at night into a lively gathering place where open-air samba rodas are held, accompanied by caipirinhas and the spontaneous participation of local musicians and dancers.

2. High-end gastronomy with Carioca roots
Rio de Janeiro's culinary scene reflects the city's cultural diversity. The offerings range from traditional dishes like feijoada to innovative, internationally acclaimed offerings. Michelin-starred restaurants include Oro, Oteque, Lasai, Mee, Cipriani, and San Omakase. As a charitable alternative, Refettorio Gastromotiva offers haute cuisine with a social purpose: each meal purchased funds another for people in vulnerable situations.

3. Paddleboarding at dawn in Copacabana:
A contemplative yet active experience, paddleboarding across Copacabana Bay during the early hours of the morning. From Post 6, under the guidance of specialized instructors, you can glide over calm waters as the sun rises over the horizon, illuminating Sugarloaf Mountain and the coast with golden and orange hues.

4. Sunrise from Sugarloaf Mountain.
Bondinho Pão de Açúcar Park offers the "Sunrise at Sugarloaf Mountain" experience, which includes exclusive access to the complex before its regular opening hours. The journey begins with a cable car ride under the night sky to Morro da Urca, offering panoramic views of Copacabana, Ipanema, Christ the Redeemer, Guanabara Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean. The activity concludes with breakfast at the Clássico Sunset Club.

5. Carnival all year round at the City of Samba.
Beyond the official dates, Rio's Carnival is celebrated year-round at the venues of the samba schools. The Carnival Experience, at the City of Samba, allows you to learn about the creative process behind this celebration, including visits to costume and float workshops, samba classes with professional dancers, and caipirinha tastings.

6. Hiking and Waterfalls in Tijuca National Park.
Tijuca National Park is the largest urban rainforest on the planet and home to exceptional biodiversity. One of the most recommended activities is the Secret Waterfalls Trail, a guided tour through the Atlantic Forest that allows you to discover natural pools, local wildlife, and beautiful landscapes. This is an ideal option for those seeking a deep connection with nature without leaving the city.

7. Historical Tour of Little Africa
The area known as Little Africa, in Rio's port area, represents a fundamental center of Afro-Brazilian culture. The cultural itinerary includes visits to the Rio Art Museum (MAR), Morro da Conceição, Largo de São Francisco da Prainha, and Pedra do Sal. In addition to delving into the history of the African diaspora, the tour culminates with a traditional lunch at Casa Omolokum.

8. Film Sets from the 2025 Oscar Winner: I'm Still Here
The film I'm Still Here, winner of the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film in 2025, portrays various iconic corners of Rio de Janeiro. Among them are the Mureta da Urca, Praia Vermelha, Ipanema, Leblon, the Botanical Garden, Parque Lage, and the Selarón Steps. This tour allows you to relive emotional scenes from the film and explore the city through the cinematic lens that captivated global audiences.

9. Accommodations for all styles.
Rio de Janeiro offers a wide range of accommodation options. Leblon and Ipanema stand out for their exclusivity and gastronomic offerings. Copacabana combines history, services, and accessibility. Santa Teresa is ideal for those who prefer an artistic and bohemian atmosphere. Barra da Tijuca, meanwhile, offers luxury hotels, extensive beaches, and proximity to contemporary shopping centers.

Recommended extensions beyond Rio de Janeiro
Those wishing to extend their stay in Brazil can consider nearby destinations of great appeal:

Búzios: Known for its beaches, scenic trails, and nightlife, it's ideal for those seeking nature with a touch of sophistication.

Paraty: a colonial city recognized by UNESCO, offers agrotourism, signature cuisine, and lush tropical rainforest landscapes.

Arraial do Cabo: a favorite destination for diving enthusiasts and idyllic beaches, with crystal-clear turquoise waters.

Imperial Beer Route: a tour of Petrópolis, Teresópolis, and Nova Friburgo, focusing on craft breweries, local culture, and mountain scenery.

Practical information for the concert.
The Lady Gaga concert will be free and will attract thousands of people. It is recommended to arrive early and use the metro as the preferred mode of transportation, especially from the Cardeal Arcoverde, Siqueira Campos, and Cantagalo stations. Some bus routes and ride-sharing services may be affected by the event.

It is recommended to purchase a RioCard (Billete Único Carioca) in advance to facilitate the use of public transportation. It is also recommended to wear light clothing, stay hydrated, and arrange a meeting point with someone accompanying you. The beach will have first aid stations and municipal restrooms for public services.

How to get to Rio de Janeiro
The city has excellent air infrastructure. Galeão International Airport (GIG), also known as RIOgaleão, handles most international flights. Santos Dumont Airport (SDU) serves domestic flights and express connections. Both offer transportation options such as taxis, ride-hailing apps, scheduled buses, and executive services. Apps such as Moovit, Google Maps, Uber, Cabify, and MetroRio make urban travel easier.