COPACABANA PALACE

Avenida Atlantica 1702,
T 2548 7070
From US$370
www.copacabanapalace.com.br
Designed just over 80 years ago by French Architect Joseph Gire to rival the Rivera’s Negresco and the Carl ton, the Copacabana is one of Rio’s grandest and oldest hotels, and it received a makeover in the late 1980s. It has one of the best restaurants (Cipriani) in the city, and not only another fantastic rooftop pool but also a tennis court. How amazing to take in breathtaking views of the beach between sets! Most of the rooms have views of either the beach or the second pool on ground level.

FASANO RIO

Av. Vieira Souto, 88,
T 3202-4000
Dbl: US$450-5000
www.fasano.com.br
Designed by Philippe Starck, the Fasano is both stylish and sophisticated. Antique furniture mixed with contemporary design, plush linens, and every room with a private balcony make staying here a luxurious experience outside of anything else in Rio. Of course it’s also one of the most expensive, but well worth it.

MARINA ALL SUITES

Avenida Delfim Moreira 696,
T 2540 4990
Suite: US$479-1,553
www.marinaallsuites.com.br
Located in Leblon, one of Rio’s most fashionable districts, Marina All Suites overlooks Ipanema Beach and has the hippest bar in town. The hotel serves up a fantastic breakfast. Hit the rooftop gym and grab some fantastic breakfast in the hotel restaurant before hitting the beach.

HOTEL PORTINARI

Rua Francisco Sa 17,
T 3222 8800
Dbl: from US$216
www.riodesignhotel.com/home/en/
Some people think this boutique hotel is a bit over designed, but design lovers might enjoy the variety found here. At least have dinner at the fantastic rooftop restaurant to weigh in on the debate. Ten designers and architects took part in the hotel’s design story. And literally every part of the hotel is different: from the lobby and restaurant, to the individual room floors. The hotel also sits in between Ipanema and Copacabana beaches, so one has the best of two worlds.

LA SUITE

Jackson de Figueiredo 501,
T 8187 6123
Dbl: From US$400
www.lasuiterio.com

This charming inn sits atop a cliff, so you’ll have the best views along with ultra stylish rooms. With only seven rooms, you are bound to get have much privacy and be far away from the typical tourist. Just remember to book early, and make friends with the concierge because you’ll be calling a lot of taxis.

MAMA RUISA

R. Santa Cristina 132,
T 2242 1281
From US$420
www.mamaruisa.com
For another intimate hideaway, check out Mama Ruisa in Santa Teresa. An alternative to the beach life below, Mama Ruisa offers one a chance to breathe with tall ceilings, wooden shutters, stained glass, garden, and a lovely pool all add to the charm of this quaint hideaway.

Close to so many artists and a bohemian lifestyle, you’ll certainly feel as if you are finding a different side of Rio when staying here.