Rio de Janeiro Honeymoon: The 9 Best Romantic Hotels (2023)

A Rio de Janeiro honeymoon is the perfect tonic to the stresses you go through when planning a wedding. Don’t get us wrong, the early stages of the planning are great fun but when you get into the nitty gritty of guest lists it can quickly become rather stressful. Thankfully, the post wedding getaway gives you something to look forward to. Here we take a closer look at Rio de Janeiro honeymoon hotels. We seriously suggest you give it some real thought because married life will do well to get off to a better start.

So, before we dive into the hotels, why Rio? Well, Rio de Janerio is fast becoming one of the most desirable cities for newlyweds to visit and it’s easy to understand why. Brazil’s second city combines everything a traveler could possibly want from a honeymoon regardless of what passions a couple share.

Here we run through the hotels in Rio de Janeiro you simply have to consider and, we promise, there is something for everyone.

1. Belmond Copacabana Palace

Belmond Copacabana Palace
Photo credit: booking.com

Forget being the best hotel for your Rio de Janeiro honeymoon, the Belmond Copacabana Palace is the best place to stay in Rio de Janeiro full stop. There is a reason that countless celebrities and even English royalty have chosen to lay their heads in this hotel over its near on 100 year existence. The Belmond Copacabana is named as such given its close proximity to Rio’s world famous Copacabana beach, which is just a few seconds away. You literally have to roll out of the hotel lobby and all that separates you from the golden sand and blue sea is the well known boardwalk.

We’ve already touched on the glamour associated with the hotel and the regular social events they host attracts attention from all over Rio. If you time your stay with one of their parties then you’ll have the option to live it up like a star (think the Great Gatsby), which will certainly leave you with a honeymoon story with a twist. In respect of the rooms themselves, they are perfect for your honeymoon. They are individually adorned with antique furniture and original artworks. King-size beds are standard whilst private balconies with a Copacabana beach view are possibilities too. The free wi-fi is fairly commonplace with hotels nowadays but the pairs of Havaianas flip flops for you both certainly isn’t and makes a lovely welcome touch.

A suite at the Copacabana Palace
A suite at the Copacabana Palace Photo credit: booking.com

As far as food goes, guests can enjoy a daily breakfast offered in Pérgula restaurant. This allows you to taste Brazilian specialities without having to venture out whilst fresh seafood is always on the menu too. It’s not your only option though; you will find an exceptional Italian menu in the Cipriani restaurant whilst the brand new MEE Restaurant serves Pan Asian cuisine where chef Kazuo Harada’s menu is complimented with an unparalleled choice of Japanese sake. If, however, you’re after a romantic tipple then it’s hard to look past the Copacabana Piano Bar. That’s just the food options inside the hotel as well!

Address: Av. Atlântica, 1702 – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 22021-001, Brazil

Best For: Couples

Pricing: From $367

Rating: 9.3/10

2. Chez Georges

A secretive entrance at Chez Georges
A secretive entrance at Chez Georges Photo credit: booking.com

The next property we look at on our countdown of honeymoon hotels in Rio de Janeiro is Chez Georges. This hotel is something special too. Each night you’ll be retreating to the hills for an awe-inspiring view and surroundings of greenery. You’re still more than guaranteed to get a true flavour of Rio de Janeiro owing to a fantastic location that delivers on every front. Inside this small hotel, which comprises of just seven suites, you’re treated to the ultimate relaxation. The atmosphere is one of isolation and quiet whilst the rooms décor and furnishings fit with the surroundings perfectly; our favourite is the floor to ceiling showers positioned next to the trees that give you a feel of the rainforest in a private setting.

The hotel comes complete with a wonderful pool and roof terrace, which provides views all around Rio de Janeiro with Sugar Loaf and Guanabara Bay just two of the noteworthy landmarks you’ll be able to see. When it comes to getting out onto the streets of Rio you’re close to plenty of tourist attractions; you’re not too far from hotspots like Christ the Redeemer, Sugar Loaf Mountain and Copacabana beach and you’ve got the carnival’s Sambadrome and an aquarium fairly nearby too.

The view and pool from Chez Georges
The view and pool from Chez Georges Photo credit: booking.com

Around the hotel you’ll find restaurants that specialise in Brazilian and Latino cuisine, which means you can experience dining like a Rio local. The hotel itself delivers a wonderful breakfast that is dressed up to impress. That is true of the entire service at Chez Georges as the staff will go all out to ensure your honeymoon is perfect.

Address: Ladeira do Meireles, 90, Santa Teresa, Rio de Janeiro, CEP 20241-340, Brazil

Best For: Couples after a blend of romance and culture

Pricing: From $184

Rating: 9.7/10

3. Vila Santa Teresa Hotel & Spa

A night time glance at the Vila Santa Teresa Pool
A night time glance at the Vila Santa Teresa pool Photo credit: booking.com

Vila Santa Teresa is another of the best places to stay in Rio that lets you laud it up like a couple of big shots on your honeymoon. The property, which is only available to adults, was initially constructed a century ago as the private residence for the Montero de Carvalho family. They were a family that held prominence in and around Rio de Janeiro. All you’ll find nowadays is a few pieces of elegant art work that tell the story of the buildings past. So, what is the modern story of Vila Santa Teresa? Well, the property has been recently renovated but has managed to hold on to its historic charm.

Combined with that is a luxurious yet casual atmosphere meaning it’s a perfect property for your honeymoon stay. For starters, the bedrooms all include either a glorious view of the city or the beautifully maintained gardens whilst the whole hotel combines the isolation of a private villa with features of an upmarket hotel. Despite being located in the center of the Rio de Janeiro bohemian district you’d be forgiven for thinking it’s just you and your partner as this hotel is one of the quietest in Rio. In fact, once your lost in the substantial grounds, which include a pool and tennis courts, the only thing likely to break the calm is a gentle breeze or the musical chirps of birdsong. If you’re looking for a peaceful atmosphere to unwind in after days amongst the hustle of the city then few hotels in Rio de Janeiro come close.

The sun setting over Vila Santa Teresa
The sun setting over Vila Santa Teresa Photo credit: booking.com

One thing that is worth a mention at Santa Teresa is the free parking they offer to residents. It doesn’t necessarily stand out at as a major perk but the ability to travel of your own accord in Rio shouldn’t be completely overlooked. It can really complement couples wishing to do their own exploration of the area. Landmarks like Christ the Redeemer might be nearby but the city is huge. If you want to see it all then you’ll need more than your legs to get you around. If you like to experience things at your own leisure the option of car hire could well suit you.

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Address: Rua Almirante Alexandrino 2305, Santa Teresa, Rio de Janeiro, CEP 20241-263, Brazil

Perfect For: Couples who like an adventure

Pricing: From $201

Rating: 9.4/10

4. Emiliano Rio

Emiliano Rio
Photo credit: booking.com

If the Emiliano hotel in Sao Paulo gives you access to some of the best nightlife in Sao Paulo what does its sister hotel bring you in Rio de Janeiro? Nightlife might not be top of the menu in Rio but location most definitely is. The hotel is located just off Copacabana beach and gives customers a fantastic base from which to explore. A short walk south will give you access to boat trips, carry you past statues and even allow you to capture a snap of your loved one ‘firing’ an old cannon near the old military fort. If you fancy a somewhat longer walk then a romantic stroll with the ocean lapping at your ankles will eventually bring you into the shadow of the Sugar Loaf Mountain. It’s not all about walking though because you’ll find restaurants and shops are in no short supply around Emiliano Rio.

As you might expect, the hotel can offer spectacular sea views over Copacabana beach but if you want to go the distance on your honeymoon then upgrade for a bathtub window view; there is no better way to blend together your new love than that of a petal filled tub and views over the Copacabana. Why not time it as the sun drops below the horizon? After that, you’ll be able to retreat to your main bedroom space in your complimentary robes and slippers before sharing a coffee from the machines that come as standard in all rooms.

A bathroom with a view at Emiliano Rio
A bathroom with a view at Emiliano Rio Photo credit: booking.com

Inside the hotel, Emiliano Rio boasts a spa, which can help you relax after a long day exploring along with a rooftop pool and bar that arguably offer the best views of the Copacabana in all of Rio de Janeiro. It’s not all showboating though; there is plenty of substance too. That’s clear to see in the service you receive during your stay whether that’s a smile with your Brazilian food, which is crafted from local, organic ingredients or the extra detail given to your cocktail at the hotel bar. The staff truly care about how you experience Rio de Janeiro.

Address: Av. Atlântica, 3804, Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro, CEP 88330-024, Brazil

Best For: Couples looking for a bit of everything

Pricing: From $351

Rating: 9.3/10

5. Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro

Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro
Photo credit: booking.com

The name Philippe Starck might not mean a great deal to you; in the world of architecture and design his reputation is enormous. His brain has been behind more than 10,000 designs. For our money, Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro is up there with the absolute best of them. Why? Well, for one thing, the location takes some beating; the hotel is set with a stunning view over Ipanema Beach but it’s the fact you can appreciate it all from the rooftop infinity pool that really sets it out from the competition. That might be the crown jewel in the hotel but it’s far from the only thing that makes it a smart choice for your honeymoon.

The hotel is smack bang in one of Rio de Janeiro’s top rated locations. It gives a strong offering of both local and international cuisine almost swamping you when you explore your surroundings; the Gero Rio Restaurant in the hotel is pretty damn good too! In addition to the eateries, you’ve got plenty of shops whilst Arpoador beach, which is a mere few steps from the hotel, caters for every personality. The water is safe for swimming, the athletic type can try their hand on the volleyball courts whilst a statue of Tom Jobin, who worked with the likes of Frank Sinatra, offers a rather random photo opportunity. Of course, you want a sprinkling of romance on your honeymoon too and the sunsets over the ocean are beautiful.

A taste of Starck's creative side
A taste of Starck’s creative side Photo credit: booking.com

We’re not done singing the praises of the hotel yet though. We’ve already touched on the Italian restaurant but you’ll also have access to a gym and sauna whilst the on-site nightclub provides a lively end to your nights. After all that activity, you’ll want somewhere nice to call it a day. You get that too. The bedrooms are all kitted out with leather furniture and hardwood floors whilst a mini-bar and balcony put the icing on your choice of honeymoon hotel.

Address: Avenida Vieira Souto, 80, Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro, CEP 22420-000, Brazil

Best For: Couples who enjoy a ‘buzzing’ atmosphere

Pricing: From $435

Rating: 9.0/10

6. Prestige Property Da Costa

Rio de Janeiro Honeymoon
Photo credit: booking.com

Are you searching for a budget-friendly, top end place for your Rio de Janeiro honeymoon? Well, Prestige Property – Da Costa could be the hotel for you. This is a luxury property that keeps Rio de Janeiro close enough to explore but far enough away to forget all the ‘noise’ when you want some time with your newly-wedded partner. Prestige Property Da Costa is a small and extremely well run property located in Rio’s bohemian district of Santa Teresa. As the hotel is located in the hilly region of Rio, the view from the balconies stretch to Botafogo, Flamengo, Pao de Azucar and Guanabara Bay to name just a few highlights. The views are simply astonishing. Of course, you’ll be treated to all these stunning views over Rio from the hotels private terrace as well as your room.

The villa is done out in a rather striking manner in terms of decoration; bold black and white colouring and large paintings bring a contrast to the colourful streets of Rio de Janeiro. The bedrooms are enormous and have all the standard features such as flat-screens and air-con but outside of your room you’ll find few better ways to relax than hopping into a hammock and listening to the birds tweeting their song. You’ll have the option of a rectangular pool too, which is tucked away from the busy streets outside. It’s an ideal place to cool down after a day soaking in the warm and, sometimes humid, weather and with the location so secluded, it’s plausible you’ll have the pool all to yourselves.

The view from Prestige
The view from Prestige Photo credit: booking.com

You do pay a price for being tucked away in your own little world though. What is that price? It’s the fact you’re a few kilometres from any real attractions with the likes of Flamengo beach 5km away. The beauty of this hotel though is that, unlike many hotels in Rio, the owner wants to make your stay absolutely spot on. That means that a question before you arrive will see them reserve you on-site car parking and even the use of bicycles, which will allow you to see Rio de Janeiro in ways not many can brag about.

Address: Rua Dr. Julio Otoni, 174, Santa Teresa, Rio de Janeiro, CEP 20241-400, Brazil

Best For: Couples who want to take things at their own pace

Pricing: From $95

Rating: 8.9/10

7. Sheraton Grand Rio Hotel & Resort

A pool with a view at the Sheraton
A pool with a view at the Sheraton Photo credit: booking.com

The next Rio de Janeiro honeymoon hotel we look at is the Sheraton Grand Rio Hotel & Resort, which you’ll find in the Leblon area of the city. The hotel stands some 253 feet tall and therefore the rooms and their balconies offer fabulous ocean views over Vidigal beach, which is a well maintained scenic spot. The walk to reach those golden sands is just a brief walk over the hotel’s landscaped grounds away. Once there, you’ll find the beach, which is sheltered by towering hills, is the perfect place for swimming your worries away courtesy of the calming waters that are used solely by guests of the Sheraton. Inside the hotel, your room will provide space aplenty whilst the contemporary décor and furnishings mean you might find motivating yourselves to leave the bedroom hard work.

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That might be especially true after spending a session in the recently developed spa and fitness center. The good points don’t end there though. Where food is concerned you’re on to a winner too. Not only is the grub top quality but you’re spoilt for choice. For an Instagram worthy snack and cocktail it’s the Casa da Cachaca restaurant located in the pool area. The same bar offers up a terrific buffet style meal too! If that’s not for you, the L’Etoile serves you up smashing French style cuisine in a setting that provides a sea view that is second to none whilst Bene restaurant will give you your Italian fill. The latest addition, the Dry Martini Bar, is in receipt of rave reviews also.

An inside look at the ocean view restaurant in the Sheraton
An inside look at the ocean view restaurant in the Sheraton Photo credit: booking.com

It might be tempting to bunker down in the hotel given what you’re reading; don’t worry, there is plenty to pull you out from the hotel lobby with the real flavour of Rio de Janeiro not too far away. A short sandy toed walk will get you to the Ipanema beach region of the city. Key tourist attractions such as Copacabana beach, Christ the Redeemer and Tijuca Forest are not too far way either.

Address: Avenida Niemeyer, 121, Leblon, Rio de Janeiro, 22450-220, Brazil

Best For: Couples who want to stay close to base

Pricing: From $139

Rating: 8.6/10

8. Hotel Nacional Rio de Janeiro

Hotel Nacional Rio de Janeiro
Photo credit: booking.com

Hotel Nacional Rio de Janeiro is all about the view. The rooms here guarantee you a combination of sea, sand and spectacular mountain views. Whether you enjoy them from the comfy beds, modern chairs or romantically placed bathtubs is completely up to you. The beauty doesn’t stop when you step outside either. The nearby Conrado beach is a protected area; this means you can bank on crystal clear waters and a glistening sandy stretch that is free of crowds. That’s something that isn’t guaranteed with Rio de Janeiro’s more fashionable beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema.

The area offers something for everyone but those honeymooners who want to be at one with the outdoors will be very happy. There are several highly rated beachfront restaurants that provide opportunities for al fresco dining. The next beach along, Pepino, has a base for water sports and is flanked by a beautiful hiking trail. It serves as a perfect place to escape the hectic world of Rio de Janeiro. If you’ve got the legs to reach the end then your reward will be Mirante do Joa; this is a tourist attraction giving sweeping views of the ocean.

A freestanding bath overlooking the ocean inside the Nacional
A freestanding bath overlooking the ocean inside the Nacional Photo credit: booking.com

If the world to the front of the hotel is one of beauty and tranquillity then there is quite the contrast to the rear. Your shopping fix is within walking distance whilst there are lots of places to eat too. They range from five star bakeries through to sushi restaurants and options that offer local delicacies. You’ve got a metro stop close by too meaning the rest of Rio de Janeiro is easy enough to explore.

Address: Avenida Niemeyer 769 – São Conrado, Sao Conrado, Rio de Janeiro, CEP 22450-221, Brazil

Best For: Couples who are looking for a taste of quieter Rio

Pricing: From $82

Rating: 8.6/10

9. Miramar Hotel by Windsor

Miramar Hotel by Windsor
Photo credit: booking.com

The final hotel we urge you to consider for your Rio de Janeiro honeymoon is Miramar Hotel by Windsor. It sits towards the southern end of Copacabana beach, which is the slightly quieter side. A gentle walk north will get you to the more popular area that comes with countless shops, bars, restaurants and an atmosphere that brings a constant buzz. A stroll in the other direction will bring you to a seafront bistro offering the raking views of the beach. The food on offer is good too with everyone sure to pluck something they like on the menu; the range of food stretches from salads to burgers and on to sweet treats like churros.

There are a couple of highlights that give the Miramar real appeal to those heading off on their honeymoon. First is the location, which we’ve touched on already. The other is the infinity pool that sits upon the hotel roof. Of course, the view from there is phenomenal. You’re able to kick back in the pool, a cocktail in hand whilst marvelling at the view that can stretch for miles. All this whilst the world of Rio passes you by below!

A suite at Miramar
A suite at Miramar Photo credit: booking.com

Finally, we come to the rooms of the hotel, which shouldn’t be overlooked. It is your honeymoon after all. What you’ll get is a large, spacious room decorated in clean colours whilst darker fitted furniture compliments well. A flat screen TV and mini-bar are standard inclusions but it’s the floor to ceiling windows looking out onto the beach that are the rooms crowning feature.

Address: Avenida Atlântica, 3668, Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro, CEP 22070-001, Brazil

Best For: Couples who want to experience Copacabana with reduced noise

Pricing: From $115

Rating: 9.2/10

Rio de Janeiro Honeymoon
Photo by Mariano Diaz on Unsplash

FAQs

Which hotel is best for a honeymoon?

The best hotel for your honeymoon is the Belmond Copacabana Palace in Rio de Janeiro. The hotel offers the best of all worlds for your honeymoon. The Belmond Copacabana Palace delivers glitz, glam and romance shared in equal measure with one of the best beaches on the planet just steps away.

How many days do I need in Rio de Janeiro on my honeymoon?

 
To see Rio de Janeiro in its full glory on your honeymoon you’ll need at least seven days. This will give you several days to enjoy the culture and attractions of Rio de Janeiro. You’ll then have a couple of days for relaxing before calling time on your honeymoon.

What is a good budget for a honeymoon in Rio de Janeiro?

A good budget for a honeymoon in Rio de Janeiro is in the region of $120 per day. This is slightly above the average spending budget for Rio de Janeiro, which is around $80. We recommend $120 as a good budget because your honeymoon will likely see you splash out more than the average.

There you have it, our guide to finding the best hotel for your Rio de Janeiro honeymoon. If you’re still on the fence about Rio then perhaps you would like to consider some of the best hotels to stay in at Iguazu Falls instead.

James

James Ardimento has spent the last 12 years journeying around the globe ! With its precious experiences and tips he gained around Asia, South America, Europe and the US he is a precious asset for this blog and for its readers