A list by Eva Novak & Adam Jensen. Updated March 2024.
We have created a list with the best small luxury hotels in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Hope you enjoy it. We think it might be the best of its kind around. Tip: Set your dates to see room prices!
Delightful property. Relaxing atmosphere. Superb interior design. Popular among couples. Boasting a bar, Villa Paranaguá Hotel & Spa - Boutique Hotel offers accommodation in Rio de Janeiro, 2 km from Flamengo Beach and 600 metres from Escadaria Selarón. Featuring a garden, the 5-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom. The hotel has a sauna, year-round outdoor pool and terrace, and guests can grab a bite to eat in the restaurant. At the hotel, all rooms are fitted with a desk. Rooms include a coffee machine, while certain rooms are fitted with a patio and others also boast city views. At Villa Paranaguá Hotel & Spa - Boutique Hotel the rooms are equipped with bed linen and towels. Speaking English, Spanish, French and Portuguese at the 24-hour front desk, staff are willing to help at any time of the day. Municipal Theatre of Rio de Janeiro is 1.4 km from the accommodation, while Modern Art Museum is 1.5 km from the property. The nearest airport is Santos Dumont Airport, 2 km from Villa Paranaguá Hotel & Spa - Boutique Hotel.Show full description
A glamorous mansion in the heart of Santa Teresa with mid-century collector's details and furniture. The newly renovated hotel has luxurious rooms with views of Guanabara Bay, a spacious garden, and a modern pool.
Charming. Beautiful. Lovely interior design. Popular among couples. Located in the historical and cultural heart of Rio de Janeiro, this 5-starboutique hotel offers a unique concept of tropical design and panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro’s bay. Free WiFi is available throughout the property. Guests of Santa Teresa Hotel RJ - MGallery can relax in a swimming pool surrounded by gardens. Body treatments, massages and other services are provided in the spa. The restaurant Térèze, listed in the Michelin Guide, serves food from different cuisines as well as a select list of wines. Famous, local Bar dos Descasados has a unique atmosphere, signature drinks and amazing view. The exclusive decor reminding the African Indigenous roots and combined with modern design can be admired in the common areas and in the spacious accommodations, which usually offer panoramic views. Santa Teresa Hotel RJ - MGallery features pieces of art of Sergio Rodrigues, Studio Vitty, Rock Lane and other renowned Brazilian designers. City centre is 3 km away from property.Show full description
Exceptional hotel with a simple Brazilian wood design and hacienda aesthetic. The garden and pool are unique with amazing views, and the orchids replanted into the tree trunks are a lovely detail. The rooms are authentically decorated with modern accents and are open to an internal garden.
Charming. Stylish. Great location. Hotel Arpoador and is next to the famous Girl from Ipanema Park and 100 metres from Ipanema's beach. Guests can enjoy a rich breakfast, served on the restaurant's porch, with a stunning view of Rio de Janeiros's coastline. Free WiFi is offered in the hotel rooms. The property has been recently renovated, with project by the architect Thiago Bernardes. Rooms at Hotel Arpoador are comfortable, with tiled floors and modern design. All units offer air conditioning, Nespresso coffee machine and bathrooms with exclusive amenities, such as hairdryer and bath rope. Some have panoramic ocean views. The restaurant at Hotel Arpoador serves a menu by the chef Roberta Sudbrack that offers delicious Brazilian specialities made with fresh organic ingredients. At the bar guests can have tropical caipirinhas, classic cocktails and beers. Copacabana Fort is 800 metres from the Hotel Arpoador whilst Lagoa Stadium is 3.8 km away. Santos Dumont Airport is at a distance of 11 km, while Galeão International Airport is 24.8 km away.Show full description
Modern beach-front property with a relaxed vibe and the most fantastic view, right on Ipanema. Well-designed rooms, a nice rooftop bar with signature cocktails, a spacious infinity pool, free yoga sessions, and bike rental.
Charming. Nice style. Comfortable beds. Set in Rio de Janeiro, JANEIRO Hotel it's a 5-minute walk from Post 12 - Leblon. Guests can enjoy a drink at JANEIRO bar or easy going food in the JANEIRO's on-site restaurant. The units offer sea views and come with a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a coffee machine and a desk. Ensuite bathroom offers with complimentary toiletries. JANEIRO Hotel offers a buffet breakfast with some vegetarian options. The accommodation offers an outdoor pool. The nearest airport is Santos Dumont Airport, 10 km from the property.Show full description
The hotel's design is futuristic with a minimalist touch, and the location at the beachfront is ideal for access to nearby restaurants and beaches. In addition, the hotel has a nice rooftop pool, modern rooms with a Brazilian mood, yoga classes, and personal training.
Romantic. Unique. Great views. Popular among couples. At Vila Santa Teresa guests are treated like family friends. Upon crossing the property's gates, our guests enter a universe of beautiful tropical gardens, full of stories and with a privileged location, from where it is possible to appreciate some of the city's main tourist attractions from a unique angle. Built in the 70s as the residence of the Monteiro de Carvalho family, the house is located on a private property in the heart of Santa Teresa, one of the most charming neighborhoods in Rio. Vila Santa Teresa is a place to celebrate. With a privileged location, Vila Santa Teresa has a view only. From our suites and gardens, you can see Sugarloaf Mountain, Guanabara Bay, Christ the Redeemer and Maracanã. We offer experiences that create unforgettable memories. Enjoy a picnic in our Garden or a Seafood Grill, inspired by the sands of the Northeast. Feel free to relax in our Spa or enjoy a helicopter flight with a panoramic view of Rio de Janeiro. Due to many balconies and unprotected stairs and because it is considered a romantic destination, the hotel is not accommodates children under 18 years old.Show full description
I would describe this as one of the most romantic, unique and authentic boutique hotels in Rio de Janeiro! It also has outstanding views. So NICE!
Great location. Boasting a privileged location on the seafront of Copacabana Beach, Mercure Rio Boutique Hotel Copacabana welcomes you to stay in comfortable luxurious rooms. Free WiFi is offered throughout the property. In addition to the modern amenities also found in the other rooms, the luxurious rooms offer exclusive sea views. At the on site restaurant, you can enjoy a Peruvian cuisine, with selected dishes and drinks. Siqueira Campos metro station is 750 metres from Mercure Rio Boutique Hotel Copacabana, whilst Copacabana Fort is 1.9 km away. Santos Dumont Airport is at a distance of 8.8 km and Galeão International Airport is 25.6 km from the property.Show full description
I really like the bright colors and tropical decor of this chic hotel. They also provide towels and comfy chairs on the beach and have a bike station nearby, making it easy to explore the area.
Rooftop pool. Boasting a rooftop pool with stunning sea views, Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro offers luxurious beachfront accommodations on Ipanema Beach. The property also offers a spa and wellness centre. Elegantly decorated, rooms at this 5-star hotel feature a balcony, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a minibar and a private bathroom with a hairdryer and a bath or shower. The spacious rooms also offer hardwood floors and high quality wood and leather furniture. At Rio de Janeiro's Hotel Fasano guests can enjoy the distinguished Gero Rio Restaurant, renowned for its contemporary Italian cuisine. The property is also conveniently located within a 5-minute walk from restaurants serving local and international dishes. After a relaxing visit to the sauna, guests can exercise in the well-appointed fitness centre or enjoy a refreshing drink from the bar. The property also offers massages, a terrace, concierge service, a solarium and a nightclub. Copacabana Fort is 1 km from Fasano Rio de Janeiro whilst Lagoa Stadium is 4 km away. Santos Dumont Airport is at a distance of 11 km, while Galeão International Airport is 27.8 km away.Show full description
This hotel is popular for its luxurious design with lots of wooden details. The rooms have views of Ipanema Beach. The concierge is able to arrange tours to local attractions and set up guides who know Rio very well!
Rooftop bar. Good breakfast. Boasting stunning views of the Sugarloaf, Corcovado and the Copacabana beachfront, PortoBay Rio de Janeiro features a restaurant and a bar with bossa nova music. Guests are invited to appreciate exotic drinks while admiring Rio de Janeiro's sunset. All rooms offers WiFi. Situated right on the beach, the 4-star hotel has rooms featuring sea views. They include flat-screen cable TV and minibar. Some rooms boast panoramic views and others feature a private balcony. The hotel also hosts Bossa Lounge, specialised in exotic fruit cocktails. The hotel provide beach towels, parasols and chairs. With international and Brazilian cuisine, La Finestra restaurant offers a rich buffet breakfast comprising fresh fruits, natural juices, hot and cold items. Health eating options are also provided. Lunch and dinner are à la carte. PortoBay Rio de Janeiro is within walking distance from popular bars, shops and restaurants. Cardeal Arcoverde metro station is 550 metres from the hotel. Beach Volleyball Arena 800 metres away, and Santos Dumont Airport is at a distance of 7.8 km.Show full description
Unique. Beautiful. Cosy rooms. Boasting an outdoor infinity pool, Emiliano Rio is set in a privileged location in Rio de Janeiro, beachfront to Copacabana Beach. The contemporary architecture values the natural light and the sea view, offering guests a special and unique connection with the city. Free WiFi is provided, and private parking is available on site. Each room is fitted with a flat-screen TV and a coffee machine. Some rooms have a seating area for guests' convenience. Every room has a private bathroom with a bath or shower and bidet, with bathrobes provided. It is also fitted with slippers, free toiletries and a hairdryer. At Emiliano Rio, guests can taste a contemporary Brazilian cuisine made from organic products at the on-site restaurant. Other hotel facilities include a spa where guests can relax and a fitness centre where they can exercise. The rooftop boasts a swimming pool and views to the beach. Ipanema Beach is 1.2 km from Emiliano Rio, while the famous Sugarloaf Mountain is 7.5 km away, and Christ The Redeemer is at a distance of 8.4 km. The nearest airport is Santos Dumont Airport, 8 km from the property, while Galeão International Airport is 20 km away.Show full description
Besides a gorgeous rooftop pool with panoramic views, this hotel has a library, spacious rooms with large closets and private balconies, and Japanese-style toilets. The hotel also has a restaurant, bar, and gym and offers massage and sauna services.
Great value. Located in the Copacabana district in Rio de Janeiro, 80 metres from Copacabana Beach, Ritz Copacabana Boutique Hotel features an outdoor pool and views of the city. Guests can enjoy the on-site bar. Every room at this hotel is air conditioned and has a flat-screen TV. Each room comes with a private bathroom. For your comfort, you will find free toiletries and a hair dryer. You will find a 24-hour front desk at the property. The hotel also offers bike hire and car hire. The famous Sugarloaf Mountain is 7 km from Ritz Copacabana Boutique Hotel, while Cantagalo Metro Station is 350 metres away. The nearest airport is Santos Dumont Airport, 8 km from the property.Show full description
This luxurious hotel is an excellent choice for those looking to stay by the beach and enjoy the views. Note that most of the rooms have balconies. The rooftop pool is a great spot to relax.
Highly elegant. Historic property. The elegant 5-star Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel, Rio de Janeiro offers luxurious rooms with marbled bathrooms and panoramic ocean views, located on Rio de Janeiro's Copacabana Beachfront. Services include a wellness spa and 3 gastronomic restaurants. The spacious rooms at the Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel, Rio de Janeiro are individually decorated with English antique furniture and original artworks. All offer king-size beds, free use of internet and a free pair of Havaianas flip flops. Some include private balconies with panoramic city or ocean views. Guests can enjoy a daily breakfast served in Pérgula restaurant, which also offers Brazilian specialties and fresh seafood delicacies. Breakfast can also be served in-room and additional charges apply. Top Italian dishes are served in Cipriani restaurant and a selection of drinks are available at the Copacabana Piano Bar. The new MEE Restaurant offers Pan Asian cuisine, and a large selection of Japanese Sakes.Show full description
I would describe this as the most ELEGANT small luxury hotel in Rio de Janeiro.
Comfortable beds. Great breakfast. Situated in Leblon, the 4-star Promenade Palladium Leblon invites you to enjoy the comfort of its rooms and suites just 400 metres from Leblon Beach. Free WiFi is available. All rooms are equipped with air conditioning and contain a cable TV and other amenities. Most rooms have a balcony as well. Suites feature a living room and a kitchen. After relaxing in the swimming pool, guests can exercise in the gym. Lagoa Remo Stadium is 2 km away. Santos Dumont Airport is at a distance of 12.3 km, while Galeão International Airport is 29.1 km away. Daily, guests can enjoy the Promenade Hour: selection of antipasti.Show full description
Elegant. Historic. Superb breakfast. Located right across from the famous Copacabana Beach, the Miramar By Windsor Copacabana features a green granite pool and a modern gym. This pet friendly, design hotel offers butler service and free WiFi. Guests can start the day admiring the beautiful beach view while savoring a rich breakfast. Decorated in grey tones, each room here comes equipped with air conditioning, a flat-screen cable TV, safe and minibar. The private bathroom includes toiletries and a bathrobe. Many shops, grocery stores, restaurants, bars and nightclubs are close to Miramar by Windsor. Beach service is available with towels, chairs and parasols. Guests can have a drink at the rooftop bar or enjoy the hotel's restaurant. Copacabana Fort is 700 metres from the Miramar Hotel whilst Lagoa Stadium is 3.8 km away. Santos Dumont Airport is at a distance of 11.7 km, while Galeão International Airport is 25 km away.Show full description
Located in Rio de Janeiro, 2.2 km from Joatinga Beach, Hotel Be Loft Lounge provides accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a restaurant and a bar. This 4-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and free WiFi. The hotel features family rooms. At the hotel, every room is fitted with a desk. Complete with a private bathroom equipped with a shower and free toiletries, all units at Hotel Be Loft Lounge have a flat-screen TV and air conditioning, and some rooms will provide you with a seating area. The rooms include a wardrobe. Tijuca Forest National Park is 13 km from the accommodation, while Rio de Janeiro Botanical Gardens is 15 km away. The nearest airport is Santos Dumont Airport, 25 km from Hotel Be Loft Lounge.Show full description
Popular among couples. Set in Rio de Janeiro, just in front of Barra Olympic Park, Venit Mio Hotel features free WiFi access and private parking. The hotel has an outdoor pool and views of the city, and guests can enjoy a meal at the restaurant or a drink at the bar. All air-conditioned rooms come with a flat-screen TV with cable channels, iPod dock and also a coffee machine. Bathrooms are private and equipped with a bath or shower. For your comfort, you will find bath robes, slippers and free toiletries. At Venit Mio, you will find a 24-hour front desk, spa, sauna and also a business centre. Barra da Tijuca Beach is 8 km from Venit Mio Hotel, while Riocentro Convention Centre is 3 km away. Rio de Janeiro/Galeao International Airport is 30 km from the property.Show full description
This is a popular hotel among couples travelling to Rio de Janeiro.
Great value. Comfortable beds. Just 130 metres from Copacabana Beach, the Windsor Palace Copacabana features a rooftop terrace with a pool and beautiful ocean views. Surrounded by trendy shops, it is only 3 km from the famous Ipanema Beach. The air-conditioned rooms at the Windsor Palace Copacabana Hotel provide a modern bathroom, cable TV, a minibar, telephone and radio. Some rooms include partial sea views and balcony. The restaurant serves Brazilian and international food in a cosy atmosphere. Room service is available 24 hours a day. Several international and regional dining options are available within a 5-minute walk. Siqueira Campos metro station is 700 metres from Windsor Palace Copacabana, whilst Copacabana Fort is 2.2 km away. Santos Dumont Airport is at a distance of 8.7 km and Galeão International Airport is 25.5 km from the property.Show full description
Rooftop restaurant. Good breakfast. Ideally located on the seafront of Copacabana Beach, Windsor California Copacabana offers comfortable accommodation with contemporary furniture and overlooking the ocean. Shopping malls, upmarket boutiques, cafés, restaurants, theaters and nightclubs are found in the nearby. Walking along the coastline, you will also reach the beaches of Ipanema and Leblon. The Windsor California Copacabana is 15 minutes by car from the Sugar Loaf Mountain and Christ the Redeemer monument.Show full description
This hotel has the best views of Copacabana Beach from the rooftop pool area.
Rooftop bar. Great location. Sol Ipanema offers a superb location on the Ipanema Beach seafront, within a vibrant area of bars and restaurants. It features a sunny terrace with breathtaking coast views. All feature a Smart TV and minibar, plus a luxurious bathroom with amenities and a magnifying mirror. WiFi is free. Sol Ipanema Hotel offers spacious air-conditioned rooms with a bright contemporary décor. Some rooms boast scenic views of Rio de Janeiro’s most famous beachfront. Buffet breakfast is served at the hotel´s restaurant at upper level with a beautiful beach view from all the tables. It includes a rich selection of tropical fruits, breads and cakes. Guests can also admire panoramic sea views while enjoying their meals or having drinks on the terrace, by the pool. The 24-hour front desk can arrange car/bicycle rental and shuttle services. Beauty shop treatments and child services can also be arranged. Third-party parking lots can be found nearby the hotel. Nossa Senhora da Paz metro station is 450 metres from Sol Ipanema, whilst Copacabana Fort is 1.5 km away. Santos Dumont Airport is at a distance of 13 km and Galeão International Airport is 25.8 km from the property.Show full description
Located in a residential area of Barra da Tijuca, Bourbon Barra da Tijuca Residence offers modern rooms with air conditioning and free WiFi. Facilities include a gym. All rooms at Bourbon Barra da Tijuca Residence are equipped with a minibar and a cable TV. Bathrooms are private and include free toiletries and a hairdryer. Guests can enjoy authentic Brazilian cuisine in the coffee shop, which is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Olympic Golf Course is located 3.6 km from Bourbon Barra da Tijuca Residence and the Olympic park is 10 km away. Santos Dumont Airport and Galeão International Airport are both within a radio of 33 km from the property.Show full description
Great value. Cosy rooms. Featuring a fine restaurant, Promenade Link Stay Barra da Tijuca is located in Rio de Janeiro and offers comfortable rooms with Free WiFi. The trendy Barra da Tijuca Beach is 3 km away. With a neutral décor, each room at Link Stay comes with a cable TV, air conditioning and a minibar. There is also a dining table. Featuring a shower, private bathroom also comes with a hairdryer. A buffet breakfast is served each morning in the breakfast room. It includes a variety of fresh fruits, breads and cold meats, as well as a selection of hot and cold drinks. Promenade Link Stay Barra da Tijuca is 4.9 km from Riocentro and 3 km from Barra Shopping Mall. Galeão International Airport is 27 km away.Show full description
We do our best to keep this list very up to date. It was last edited in March 2024. If you know of a small luxury hotel that should be on the list, let us know. Click here to contact us. Thanks!
Check out these other cool hotel lists for Rio de Janeiro: