Top 20 Cool and Fun Hotels in Rio De Janeiro 2023

Famed for its mind-blowing sea-meets-mountain landscapes, its party beach life, and its annual carnival, Rio de Janeiro is one of Latin America’s most exciting and visited cities. Rio’s eclectic hotels offer a colorful flamboyance to set the tone for a life-lasting city break. From Bohemian boutiques to luxury designer resorts, here are my favorite cool and fun hotels in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil…

Best For Panoramic Views

Rio Othon Palace

Rio Othon Palace - easily one of the coolest oceanview hotels to stay in Rio de Janeiro perfect for Millennials and Gen Zs Rio Othon Palace - easily one of the coolest oceanview hotels to stay in Rio de Janeiro perfect for Millennials and Gen Zs2

Rio Othon Palace - easily one of the coolest oceanview hotels to stay in Rio de Janeiro perfect for Millennials and Gen Zs1

Set at the gateway to the postcard-worthy Copacabana Beach, Rio Othon Palace offers a stunning rooftop with a beautiful swimming pool, as well as a 5* restaurant, a blissful spa experience, bars, and a kids area.

Copacabana’s cosmopolitan scene of handicraft fairs and gourmet restaurants is right on your doorstep here, however the in-house experience is difficult to beat.

The Skylab Restaurant which sits on the hotel’s rooftop brings together the very best of contemporary cuisine with uninterrupted sea views. Rio Othon Palace caters to business travellers as well as jetsetters, and is a social hub where people from all walks of life can mingle.

Pros

Prime location to Copacabana Beach

On-site relaxing spa

Breathtaking sea views

Ideal for Gen Zs

Cons

Distance to major attractions

Parking challenges

Best For Trendy Design

JANEIRO Hotel

JANEIRO Hotel - a cool and sleek hotel JANEIRO Hotel - a cool and sleek hotel1 JANEIRO Hotel - a cool and sleek hotel2

Janeiro Hotel is the work of designer and Brazilian lifestyle impresario Oskar Mestavaht’s. It is one of Rio’s trendiest hotspots and is every bit as glamorous as you’d expect.

Behind its aesthetic opulence is a brilliantly thought-out slice of boutique luxury, crafted from travertine marble and horizontal frames that give the neighbourhood of Leblon something to shout about.

A true sense of spacious calm pervades the casual chic guestrooms, which are adorned with soothing paintings inspired by the vibrant cityscape.

Set on the first floor overlooking the beach is the hotel’s main restaurant, which turns from a bright breakfast spot by day to a low-lit, classy restaurant by night.

Pros

Casual chic atmosphere

Trendy and stylish design

Gorgeous beach views

Opulent and comfortable

Cons

The vibrant ambiance can be loud

Not budget-friendly

Best For Couples

Emiliano Rio

Hip hotel in Rio

Emiliano Rio - an elegant place to stay2

Emiliano Rio - an elegant place to stay

Luxury hotel in Rio

Outdoing the graceful boutiques of neighbouring Ipanema, the arrival of the Emiliano brand to Rio’s Copacabana district caused quite the buzz among locals and travellers.

The hotel’s façade contrasts the typical homes on Avenida Atlântica with its intricate, organic series of panels, and invites you into a world of hand-woven fabrics, marble, and natural wood.

If you land a sea-view room, prepare to be wowed by panoramic vistas each morning, as you wake up in a bespoke, sumptuous bed.

The Emilie Restaurant has been renovated and has transformed into something spectacular, with its soaring wall of greenery and its delicious, sustainably sourced seafood specialities.

Pros

Luxurious atmosphere

Prime location in Copacabana District

Beautiful sea views

Greenery around adds a natural touch

Cons

Potential noise levels

Higher price range

Best For Boutique

Le Chateaux Joá Boutique Hotel

Le Chateaux Joá Boutique Hotel - an upmarket rustic-chic hotel Le Chateaux Joá Boutique Hotel - an upmarket rustic-chic hotel1 Le Chateaux Joá Boutique Hotel - an upmarket rustic-chic hotel2

Le Chateaux sets out to attract guests who want something beyond a standard hospitality experience. Here, serene comfort is combined with delightful gastronomy and a beautiful pampering atmosphere, forming one of Rio’s most captivating abodes.

Romantics, lovers of arts and culture, and those in search of great cuisine will feel right at home in this graceful boutique. The wood-clad interiors evoke an authentic hinterland ambiance, reflecting the charm of the surrounding, sought after area.

The blissful leisure area offers a swimming pool with a waterfall, a Paddle Tennis court, and a gorgeous 1000 m2 tropical garden which is dotted by imperial palms, an old stone fountain, and coconut trees.

Pros

A peaceful atmosphere

Charming surroundings

Ideal for couples

Presence of a tropical garden

Cons

Might be a little too quiet for some guests

Higher price range

Best For Prime Location

Santa Teresa Hotel RJ

Santa Teresa Hotel RJ – Mgallery - a 19th-century upscale urban retreat2

Santa Teresa Hotel RJ – Mgallery - a 19th-century upscale urban retreat Santa Teresa Hotel RJ – Mgallery - a 19th-century upscale urban retreat1

Set in the undulating landscape of Santa Teresa, one of Rio’s Bohemian neighbourhoods, this charming hotel has the atmosphere of a hillside retreat.

Housed on a former coffee finca, this converted mansion can be found behind huge iron gates, and its rustic features are graced by a contemporary Brazilian style.

The hotel’s lush gardens are peppered by swaying palms that surround the shimmering pool to create a genuine tropical paradise. The rooms are sprinkled with muted tones and reclaimed wooden furniture, and offer sumptuous four-poster beds designed for a blissful night’s sleep.

The Térèze restaurant has earned prestigious awards for its Franco-Brazilian fusions, while Bar dos Descasados offers a dimly lit lounge area serving an impressive array of cocktails.

Pros

Relaxing Hillside retreat atmosphere

Historic charm

Culturally rich

Impressive array of cocktails

Cons

Distance from main attractions

Limited facilities

Best For Instagrammable Design

Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro

Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro - a sophisticated hotel Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro - a sophisticated hotel1 Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro - a sophisticated hotel2

Single-handedly revolutionizing Rio’s hotel scene with its superior service and cool Italo-Brazilian sophistication, Hotel Fasano is the new place to see and to be seen.

Elegant to the hilt, this charming hotel is as attractive from the inside as it is from the outside, with signature dark-wood panelling setting a cool, opulent tone.

Each floor’s gently lit Starcke corridors are embellished with designer décor, and lead to the sharp, contemporary guestrooms. The guest-only rooftop infinity pool is one of the city’s favoured sundowner spots, and offers the perfect backdrop for an Instagram shoot.

Here, standard poolside dishes like burgers and club sandwiches are served.

Pros

Instagram-worthy backdrop

Elegant ambiance

Exclusive rooftop pool

Charming interior and exterior

Cons

Distance from major attractions

Potential noise levels

Best For Luxury Living

Hotel Nacional Rio de Janeiro

Hotel Nacional Rio de Janeiro - an unique hotel Hotel Nacional Rio de Janeiro - an unique hotel1 Hotel Nacional Rio de Janeiro - an unique hotel2

Hotel Nacional is a place where historical and cultural heritage form in a prime embodiment of Brazilian architecture, designed by award-winning landscapers.

The hotel is strategically positioned to face the São Conrado Sea, whilst keeping you close to Rio’s major attractions. The soul of the city is preserved in the hotel’s gastronomic offerings, which include the panoramic ‘View Bar’, the Lounge Bar, and the Mermaid Restaurant.

On arrival you will be welcomed into a cosy lobby surrounded by panels by the artist Carybé, and once you check in you can savour fine wines in the quirky cellar.

The hotel’s exclusive SPA are comes with a whirlpool and a modern fitness centre, and is the perfect spot to reenergize after an action-packed day.

Pros

Strategic location

Exclusive spa and fitness center

Scenic views of São Conrado Sea

Renowned landscaping

Cons

Outdoor activities may be affected by the weather

Potential noise levels

Best For Spa Services

Villa Paranaguá Hotel & Spa

Villa Paranaguá Hotel & Spa - a peaceful oasis Villa Paranaguá Hotel & Spa - a peaceful oasis1 Villa Paranaguá Hotel & Spa - a peaceful oasis2

Villa Paranaguá is a graceful fluidity between architecture, design, and nature, and offers guests a unique stay amid swaying Brazilian trees.

Owing to the property’s supreme location, you can enjoy a pleasant stroll around the neighbourhood of Santa Teresa,  and become familiar with the eclectic streets of the city centre.

Everything at Villa Paranaguá was designed to please, from the beauty of the garden to the comfort of the guestrooms to the stunning artwork which gives the hotel its identity.

Within the fauna and flora-laden, 4000m² property lies a shimmering swimming pool surrounded by breathtaking views of Santa Teresa’s hill, while a handful of outdoor spaces invites you to relish the warm climate.

Pros

Prime location for exploration

Artistic Identity

Breathtaking views of Santa Teresa's hill

Relaxing warm climate

Cons

Seasonal considerations

Transportation may be a little inconvenient

Best For Great Breakfast

Gerthrudes Bed & Breakfast

Gerthrudes Bed & Breakfast - a cozy and charming B&B2

Gerthrudes Bed & Breakfast - a cozy and charming B&B Gerthrudes Bed & Breakfast - a cozy and charming B&B1

Set in the heart of Rio’s most historic district, Santa Teresa, Gerthrudes invites you through a modest façade into an enchanting, captivating paradise.

The property’s interior décor will immediately put you at ease, especially in the guestrooms which offer state-of-the-art amenities and are backdropped by glorious city and bay views.

A delicious breakfast is served on a veranda each morning, allowing you to kickstart your day in elegance. An outdoor pool area is graced by stunning views of Sugar Loaf Mountain and Guanabara Bay, and the bohemian charm of the surrounding area can be relished easily during peaceful afternoon strolls.

Pros

Scenic City and Bay Views

Historic and Artistic Inspiration

Photogenic Setting

Charming location in the heart of Rio

Cons

Might not be to everyone's liking

Can become rather loud for certain visitors

Best For Stylish Decor

Vila Santa Teresa

Vila Santa Teresa - a romantic boutique hotel Vila Santa Teresa - a romantic boutique hotel1 Vila Santa Teresa - a romantic boutique hotel2  When you cross the gates to Vila Santa Teresa, you will be embraced by a universe of lush, tropical gardens, which overlook some of Rio’s main tourist attractions.

Set in a bucolic land of 80000 m2, this boutique hotel is the perfect spot to restore your inner balance, by reclining by the pool after a day spent within the effervescence of the metropolis.

Each room of the property is adorned with bright light, natural fabrics, and soft colours, forming a decoration scheme that refers to the essence of Brazilian luxury. The hotel’s menu is prepared with ingredients harvested from its own garden, which results in fresh, sustainable dishes.

Pros

Stylish ambiance

Local design infused with cultural spirit

Relaxing pool on-site

Calming atmosphere

Cons

Some guests might prefer a vibrant atmosphere

At a distance from the main attractions

Best For Luxury Lifestyle

Ritz Copacabana Boutique Hotel

Ritz Copacabana Boutique Hotel - a refined boutique hotel2

Ritz Copacabana Boutique Hotel - a refined boutique hotel Ritz Copacabana Boutique Hotel - a refined boutique hotel1

Located only one block from Copacabana Beach, The Ritz is a cozy boutique hotel offering elegant apartments, a restaurant, a bar, and a rooftop pool blessed with awe-inspiring sunset vistas.

The hotel blends into the landscape with its lavish terracotta hues, and the 46 accommodations evoke sophistication through ultra-modern décor and state-of-the-art trappings.

Some units offer private, secluded terraces where you can watch the world go by as day fades into night. After an unforgettable swim from above the rooftops of Rio, you don’t have to venture far to enjoy some of the city’s most eclectic bars and restaurants.

Pros

Rooftop pool with stunning sunset views

Luxurious apartments for lodging

A blend of historic and calming design

Vibrant atmosphere

Cons

Not budget-friendly

Smaller bedroom sizes

Best For Infinity Pool

LSH by Own

LSH by Own -  a contemporary beachfront hotel2

LSH by Own -  a contemporary beachfront hotel1

Designed by David Rockwell, LSH adds a dash of independent glamour to the Barra da Tijuca, a sprawling suburb of shopping centres and upmarket condos anchored by a long stretch of shoreline.

The hotel’s sleek modernism emanates from its 122 guestrooms, where Rockwell’s influence can be felt through geometric design flourishes.

The infinity-edged, glass-bottomed pool is a playful tribute to the spirit of Miami’s South Beach, whilst exuding the showy Barra lifestyle.

The hotel’s famed gastronomy is taken care of by the award-winning Giuseppe Grill, allowing guests to benefit from incredible steaks and seasonal dishes cooked to perfection.

Pros

Independent glamour

Convenient Location

Sleek modern design

Lively lifestyle of Barra da Tijuca

Cons

Not budget-friendly

Potential noise levels

Best For Millennials and Gen Zs

Yoo2 Rio de Janeiro by Intercity

Yoo2 Rio de Janeiro by Intercity - a cool and trendy design hotel Yoo2 Rio de Janeiro by Intercity - a cool and trendy design hotel1 Yoo2 Rio de Janeiro by Intercity - a cool and trendy design hotel2

Here we have an inner-city hip hangout which offers trendsetting restaurants and vibrant bars. At Yoo2, the murals from local street-artists and the rooftop pool with panoramic views fill the property with a very ‘Rio’ charm, while global influences are evident throughout the interior elements.

Mint-green corridors guide you to the guestrooms, where local creativity is etched into the design. Within these rooms you will find large comfy beds hugged by a softly cushioned headboard, and a seating area inviting you to gaze out onto the eclectic streets.

The ground-floor restaurant and the rooftop bar offer atmospheric spaces suffused by the charm of this thriving metropolis. 

Pros

Inner-city hip hotel

Local Street-Art Murals

Authentic and immersive Rio charm

Presence of a lively rooftop bar

Cons

Not ideal for budget-conscious travelers

Potential noise levels

Best For Partying

Vila Galé Rio de Janeiro

Vila Galé Rio de Janeiro - a polished 19th-century palace Vila Galé Rio de Janeiro - a polished 19th-century palace1 Vila Galé Rio de Janeiro - a polished 19th-century palace2

Attracting an international crowd, both the style and the location of Vila Galé are second to none, creating an ideal hub for those in pursuit of a resort-style haven in the midst of a pulsating night scene.

The lobby’s bygone-era aesthetic is cemented by historic images of Rio, and is beautifully topped by modern touches and bright hues.

The restaurant is a popular meeting spot for locals and travellers, and is graced by a vibrant atmosphere which complements its extensive buffets. The upmarket piano bar at Vila Galé is a tranquil oasis, where you can swing by and enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail.

Pros

Prime Location

Vibrant nightlife

A unique blend of historic and modern design

Presence of a Piano bar

Cons

Night-time can be extremely loud

Crowded spaces

Best For Unique Trendy Decor

CDesign Hotel

CDesign Hotel - an ultra-chic hotel CDesign Hotel - an ultra-chic hotel1 CDesign Hotel - an ultra-chic hotel2

Here we have a nautically inspired gem, set in the backdrop of the stunning Recreio dos Bandeirantes Beach. CDesign Hotel looks as if it has been taken straight from Santorini and perfectly placed on one of Rio’s most pristine stretches of shoreline.

The hotel’s undulating façade embodies the majesty of modern architecture, and every detail inside was implemented to reflect the region’s natural beauty.

The guestrooms are dressed in a white colour scheme and exude comfort through luxury materials and comfy décor, while the private veranda offers the perfect vantage point over a golden sunset.

Also ready to be enjoyed is the super Instagrammable rooftop infinity pool – the perfect spot to savour the first cocktail!

Pros

Stunning views of the shoreline

Modern architectural design

A rooftop pool is present

Beachfront access

Cons

Some guests might find it too crowded

Potential noise levels

Best For Budget-friendly

Reserva Santa Teresa

Reserva Santa Teresa - a quirky-chic guest house Reserva Santa Teresa - a quirky-chic guest house1 Reserva Santa Teresa - a quirky-chic guest house2

Bounded by the bohemian flair of Santa Teresa neighbourhood, Reserva is housed in a breathtaking 100-year-old colonial building.

This peaceful haven exudes an ‘old Rio’ charm through traditional furniture, graceful gardens, a shimmering pool and solarium, and a huge expanse of surrounding rainforest filled with wildlife.

At Reserva, you are perfectly placed to head out for a private trail walk through the hinterland setting, or take a tram ride through the narrow streets of Santa Teresa.

Each guestroom offers a peaceful spot of respite, and comes with plenty of space, trailblazing furnishings, plush natural materials, and exceptional city-meets-sea views.

Pros

Historic building

A cozy and tranquil atmosphere

Graceful gardens add beauty

Located in a lively neighborhood

Cons

Some guests might find it too loud

The theme might not be admired by everyone

Best For Beachfront View

Rio Design Hotel

Rio Design Hotel - a laid-back place to stay in Rio Rio Design Hotel - a laid-back place to stay in Rio1 Rio Design Hotel - a laid-back place to stay in Rio2

Rio’s first design concept hotel presents a blissful blend of creativity, refinement, and style, bringing harmony of mind and soul to the discerning traveller.

The hotel is clad head-to-toe in elegant décor, and matches its aesthetic with the highest standards of service and comfort. Ideal for golden hour, the guest-only rooftop pool offers a stunning spot to gaze out over the rooftops of Copacabana and the ocean horizon.

Located in the lobby of the hotel is a delightful eatery which offers an exquisite, light gastronomic experience in a charming atmosphere. Spread across 14 floors are the hotel’s 84 apartments which were decorated by renowned Brazilian architects, and are bedecked with ultra-modern amenities.

Pros

Elegant Décor throughout

Design-Focused Experience

Convenient Location

The beauty of Copacabana and the ocean

Cons

The theme may not resonate positively with everyone

Not suitable for budget travelers

Best For Longer Stays

Prestige Property

Prestige Property - Da Costa - a colorful, kitsch, and fun party B&B to stay in Rio de Janeiro Prestige Property - Da Costa - a colorful, kitsch, and fun party B&B to stay in Rio de Janeiro1

This glorious restored villa sets the tone for an invigorating Rio stay, and invites you back to a beautiful, bucolic haven after a day of exploring downtown.

Situated in the Zona Sul district, Prestige Property is inspired by the beauty and bounty of nature, with a gorgeous combination of azure ocean waters and bucolic vegetation serving as a pristine backdrop.

The essence of nature doesn’t just surround the property, it permeates the interiors with a blissful, tropical charm in the form of striking wall embellishments and large potted plants. Some of the open-air communal areas boast bohemian-style hammocks where you can sit and sway in the gentle breeze.

Pros

Close to key attractions

A blend of natural elements and modern comforts

Ideal for nature lovers

Inspired by the beauty and bounty of nature

Cons

Limited on-site amenities

Weather-Dependent

Best For Garden hotel

Casa Beleza

Casa Beleza - a tropical hidden gem bed and breakfast Casa Beleza - a tropical hidden gem bed and breakfast1 Casa Beleza - a tropical hidden gem bed and breakfast2

This exotic mansion places you in a serene natural setting, with a gorgeous tropical garden which is visited frequently by turtles, small monkeys, and many colourful butterflies.

Surrounded by lush greenery, the fresh white exterior evokes the flair of a bygone era, but the traditional ambiance is complemented beautifully on the inside with a whole host of luxury mod cons.

Dotted around the property you will find many open-air nooks where you can sit and soak up the Santa Teresa charm, and throughout your stay you will remain close to many the city’s famed music and nightlife spots. 

Pros

A gorgeous tropical garden is present

Surrounded by lush greenery

Fresh white exterior with a hint of nostalgic charm

Vibrant atmosphere

Cons

The location might not be liked by every guest

Transportation considerations

Best For Charming Vibe

Casa 48 Guesthouse

Casa 48 Guesthouse - an unassuming guest house2

Casa 48 Guesthouse - an unassuming guest house Casa 48 Guesthouse - an unassuming guest house1

A guesthouse with a view, Casa 48 embodies Rio’s majestic charm through stylish elements and jaw-dropping panoramas over the bohemian district of Santa Teresa.

Guests can take advantage of a stunning rooftop pool, hammock hangouts, and high-end amenities in the 7 guestrooms. The hotel is placed at the entrance of a small and quaint family favela, ‘the Pereirao’.

Owing to the supreme location on a hill above the urban cityscape, not only can do you have convenient access to one of Rio’s most electric neighborhoods, but you can also relish the most perfect, Instagrammable backdrop of a horizon sunset. 

Pros

Situated at the entrance of the charming favela

Ideal for Instagram-aesthetics

Rooftop pool

Stunning sunset views

Cons

Noise levels

Distance from attractions

All Hotel in Rio de Janeiro Compared 

The following table compares the Top 20 Cool and fun Hotels in Rio de Janeiro.

Hotel Name LocationPrice Range (per night)Fitness FacilitiesDistance to Attractions (km)Nearby Restaurants
Rio Othon PalaceAvenida Atlântica, 3264$199-$368No3.03
Janeiro HotelAvenida Delfim Moreira, 696$510-$996No2.23
Emiliano RioAv. Atlântica, 3804$588-$1087Yes3.33
Le Chateaux Joá Boutique HotelR. José Panceti$326-$450Yes0.753
Santa Teresa Hotel RJRua Almirante Alexandrino, 660$340-$639Yes1.33
Hotel Fasano Rio de JaneiroAvenida Vieira Souto, 80$660-$989Yes3.43
Hotel Nacional Rio de JaneiroAvenida Niemeyer 769$92-$313Yes4.83
Villa Paranaguá Hotel & SpaRua Visconde de Paranaguá, 71$322-$679No.653
Gerthrudes Bed & BreakfastRua Bernardino dos Santos, 31$121-$177No.853
Vila Santa TeresaRua Almirante Alexandrino 2305$532-$577Yes1.83
Ritz Copacabana Boutique HotelRua Xavier da Silveira, 13$173-$276Yes3.03
LSH by OwnRua Professor Coutinho Fróis, 10 - Jardim Oceânico$205-$658No11.03
Yoo2 Rio de Janeiro by IntercityPraia do Botafogo, 242$256-$1053Yes1.03
Vila Galé Rio de JaneiroRua do Riachuelo,124$88-$146Yes1.23
CDesign HotelAv. Lúcio Costa, 17360$182-$467Yes5.13
Reserva Santa Teresa143 Rua Aprazível, Santa Teresa$45-$69No1.33
Rio Design HotelRua Francisco Sá, 17$92-$188NO3.33
Prestige Property - Da CostaRua Dr. Julio Otoni, 174$121-$151No1.23
Casa Beleza11 Rua Laurinda Santos Lôbo, Santa Teresa$192-$222No1.33
Casa 48 GuesthouseRua Almirante Alexandrino 2023 Casa 48 Bairro Santa Tereza$24-$36No1.73
 

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