Weekends in Rio de Janeiro are sacred! Cariocas know how to make the most of their days off, whether it’s enjoying the outdoors, indulging in good food, or meeting friends for a “cerveja gelada.” Here’s a breakdown of how locals typically spend their weekends:
1. Beach, of course!
Rio is synonymous with its stunning coastline, and locals take full advantage. On weekends, you’ll find many cariocas heading to Ipanema, Leblon, or Copacabana beaches to unwind. But for a more local vibe, we prefer lesser-known gems like Praia da Reserva or Joatinga, which tend to be quieter.
Beach setup: Umbrella, chair, sunscreen, and a chilled mate (iced tea) or coconut water are must-haves. Some also bring “biscoito Globo” (a local snack) and wait for the beach vendors selling “queijo coalho” (grilled cheese on a stick).
Morning surfers hit Prainha or Recreio for waves, especially on early Saturday mornings.
2. Feijoada and Samba
Saturday afternoons are perfect for a hearty feijoada (black bean stew with pork). You can find this dish at traditional restaurants like Bar do Mineiro in Santa Teresa or Feira dos Nordestinos in São Cristóvão. It’s often paired with live samba music, and by late afternoon, the place is filled with dancing and singing.
For an authentic samba experience, check out Trapiche Gamboa or the Samba da Pedra do Sal on Sundays. It’s a gathering of locals, with live samba bands playing in a laid-back setting.
3. Outdoor Activities
Cariocas love being outdoors. On Sundays, the streets of Lagoa and Aterro do Flamengo close to cars, becoming a paradise for bikers, joggers, and skaters. Many locals take this chance to go cycling or walking with a view of the Corcovado or Sugarloaf.
Hiking is also a big part of the weekend routine. Trails like Morro Dois Irmãos or Pedra Bonita offer stunning panoramic views without being too difficult. Early risers go for hikes to catch the sunrise.
4. Botecos and Cold Beer
After a day of sun and fun, locals usually hit up a boteco (casual bar) for ice-cold beers. Neighborhoods like Lapa, Botafogo, and Tijuca have some great spots. Popular choices include Bar Urca where you can sip your beer while watching the sunset over Guanabara Bay, or Adega Pérola in Copacabana for some delicious petiscos (Brazilian tapas).
A staple of local boteco culture is to snack on bolinho de bacalhau (codfish fritters), pastel (fried pastries), or a plate of frango à passarinho (fried chicken bits with garlic).
5. Street Markets and Local Fairs
On weekend mornings, cariocas often stop by feiras livres (open-air markets). These are great places to pick up fresh fruits, vegetables, and snacks. The Ipanema Hippie Fair on Sundays is also a local favorite for handicrafts and art. For a more alternative vibe, Feira de Lavradio in Lapa on the first Saturday of the month offers antique furniture, crafts, and live music.
6. Football Matches
If there’s a football match, expect a good part of the weekend to be devoted to that. Local teams like Flamengo, Vasco, Fluminense, and Botafogo have a passionate fan base, and watching a game at Maracanã stadium is a real carioca ritual. Even if you’re not going to the game, you’ll hear fans celebrating in the streets and bars.
7. Nightlife
Cariocas like to cap the weekend with a good party. Lapa is the go-to area for nightlife, where samba, forró, and Brazilian funk reign supreme. Locals also head to the neighborhoods of Gávea or Botafogo, which have more intimate bars and live music spots. For something alternative, the Arco do Teles area in downtown fills up with people enjoying drinks and street music in a colonial setting.
8. Churrasco at Home
Sometimes, the best weekends are spent at home with family and friends. A traditional Brazilian churrasco (barbecue) is a perfect way to relax and socialize. It’s common to spend the whole afternoon grilling sausages, picanha (top sirloin), and chicken hearts, while sharing drinks and listening to music.
For locals, the weekend is all about connecting—with the city, the beach, the people, and the vibrant culture. Whether it’s a laid-back afternoon at the beach, a samba gathering, or enjoying street food at a boteco, cariocas know how to enjoy life to the fullest! Take advantage of the best deals for staying in Rio de Janeiro on Booking.com: Book here for the best prices
