Praia da Urca: A Serene Coastal Escape in Rio de Janeiro
Escape to the tranquil Praia da Urca in Rio de Janeiro for stunning views, calm waters, and a relaxed atmosphere away from the city's hustle.
Praia da Urca is a small, picturesque beach nestled in the Urca neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, offering stunning views of Guanabara Bay, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Christ the Redeemer. Known for its calm waters and relaxed atmosphere, it's a favorite spot for locals and tourists seeking tranquility away from the bustling city.
A brief summary to Praia da Urca
- State of Rio de Janeiro, BR
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a quieter beach experience and stunning sunrise views.
- Take a walk along the Mureta da Urca for beautiful views of Guanabara Bay and the Christ the Redeemer statue.
- Explore the historic Forte São João, a military base with significant historical importance.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Copacabana or Ipanema, take the metro to Botafogo station (Line 1, orange line). Exit the station and walk towards Rua São Clemente, then turn right onto Rua da Passagem. Walk straight until you reach Praia da Urca. Alternatively, catch bus lines such as 513 or 500 towards Urca and get off at Rua Lauro Müller, followed by a short walk to the beach. A single metro or bus fare costs approximately R$5.
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Walking
If you are in the Botafogo area, you can walk to Praia da Urca by heading towards the Urca neighborhood along the waterfront. Follow the shoreline from Praia de Botafogo, and you will arrive at Praia da Urca in approximately 20-30 minutes.
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Taxi/Ride-share
From most parts of Rio, Urca is a short taxi or ride-share trip. Request a ride to Praia da Urca or Praia Vermelha, and the driver will be able to navigate to the destination. A short ride within the South Zone should cost between R$20-R$40, depending on traffic and distance.
Discover more about Praia da Urca
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Monumento Natural dos Morros do Pão de Açúcar e da Urca
0.7 km
Discover Rio's iconic Sugarloaf Mountain and Urca Hill: stunning views, historic trails, and natural beauty in one unforgettable monument.
Fortaleza de São João
0.7 km
Explore Rio's oldest historical site: Fortaleza de São João in Urca, a fortress with stunning views and rich military heritage.
Estátua de Frédéric Chopin
0.8 km
A peaceful tribute to Chopin in Urca, Rio de Janeiro, offering serenity and scenic beauty.
Portão Histórico da Fortaleza de São João
0.8 km
Step back in time at Rio's Portão Histórico da Fortaleza de São João, a colonial military landmark with breathtaking views of Guanabara Bay.
Praça da Fundação do Rio de Janeiro
0.8 km
Discover the historical heart of Rio de Janeiro at Praça da Fundação, where the city's story began amidst stunning natural beauty.
Sugar Loaf cable car
0.9 km
Experience breathtaking views of Rio de Janeiro from the iconic Sugar Loaf cable car, a must-visit tourist attraction offering stunning panoramas.
Museu Carmen Miranda
1.2 km
Discover the vibrant legacy of Carmen Miranda at this Rio museum, showcasing her dazzling costumes and contributions to Brazilian culture.
Praça Nicarágua
1.5 km
Discover Praça Nicarágua in Botafogo: a local favorite with Sugarloaf views, cafes, and a relaxed Carioca vibe.
Monumento Memorial às Vítimas do Holocausto
1.6 km
Explore the Holocaust Memorial in Rio de Janeiro: A profound tribute to resilience, remembrance, and the importance of tolerance and understanding.
Clarice Lispector statue
1.7 km
A tribute to Brazilian literary icon Clarice Lispector, this statue on Leme Beach offers reflection and stunning ocean views.
Estátua de Ary Barroso
1.7 km
Explore the Ary Barroso statue in Copacabana, a stunning tribute to the legendary Brazilian composer amidst breathtaking coastal views.
Largo Almirante Índio do Brasil
1.9 km
Escape the city bustle at this charming Botafogo park, offering tranquility and a taste of local Rio culture.
Marchezinho
2.1 km
Experience Brazilian flavors with a sustainable twist at this charming Botafogo bistro, bar, and grocery store. Fresh, local ingredients, creative dishes.
Palácio Guanabara
2.4 km
Explore Palácio Guanabara, a neoclassical palace in Rio de Janeiro with a rich history as a residence for royalty and presidents.
Largo do Machado, 6 - Catete
2.4 km
Discover Largo do Machado in Rio de Janeiro: A historic square offering culture, cuisine, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Unmissable attractions to see
Morro da Urca
0.3 km
Ascend Morro da Urca for panoramic Rio views, a rainforest hike, and a memorable cable car ride to Sugarloaf Mountain.
Teleférico do Pão de Açúcar
0.4 km
Ascend to breathtaking panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro via the iconic Sugarloaf Cable Car, a historic landmark since 1912.
Trilha do Morro da Urca
0.6 km
Hike through Rio's natural beauty to Morro da Urca for panoramic views and a memorable Sugarloaf Mountain experience.
Mureta da Urca
0.6 km
Experience Rio's iconic sunset spot: Mureta da Urca, where stunning views meet cold beer and Carioca vibes.
Pista Cláudio Coutinho
0.7 km
Discover a scenic coastal trail in Rio de Janeiro with stunning views of Sugarloaf Mountain, abundant wildlife, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Inside Beach - St. John Fortress
0.7 km
Explore Rio's Fortress of São João: a historic landmark offering a glimpse into Brazil's colonial past and stunning views of Guanabara Bay.
Red Beach
0.8 km
Discover Red Beach in Rio: a tranquil escape with reddish sands, calm waters, and stunning Sugarloaf Mountain views.
Urca
0.8 km
Discover Urca, Rio's tranquil neighborhood with stunning views, historic charm, and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful escape.
Praia de Fora
0.8 km
Escape to Praia de Fora: A serene beach in Rio de Janeiro with golden sands, tranquil waters, and stunning natural beauty.
Praça Gen. Tibúrcio - Urca
0.9 km
Discover Urca's charming town square, Praça General Tibúrcio, offering culture, history, and stunning views of Sugarloaf Mountain.
Sugarloaf Mountain
0.9 km
Ascend Rio's iconic Sugarloaf Mountain for panoramic views, thrilling cable car rides, and unforgettable Brazilian vistas.
Parque Bondinho Pão de Açúcar
0.9 km
Ascend to breathtaking panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro via cable car at the iconic Parque Bondinho Pão de Açúcar. A must-see destination!
Earth Sciences Museum
1.0 km
Explore Brazil's geological history at the Earth Sciences Museum in Rio de Janeiro, featuring minerals, fossils, and interactive exhibits.
Morro da Babilônia
1.2 km
Hike a favela with stunning views: Morro da Babilônia combines nature, culture, and community in Rio de Janeiro's Leme neighborhood.
UFRJ - Campus Praia Vermelha
1.2 km
Explore UFRJ's Praia Vermelha campus: a blend of history, architecture, and Brazilian education in a unique setting.
Essential places to dine
Bar e Restaurante Urca
0.6 km
Experience authentic Brazilian flavors at Bar e Restaurante Urca in Rio de Janeiro – where great food meets stunning views.
Clássico Beach Club - Urca
0.7 km
Experience breathtaking views and exquisite flavors at Clássico Beach Club in Urca - your ultimate beachside retreat in Rio de Janeiro.
Terra Brasilis
0.9 km
Discover authentic Brazilian flavors at Terra Brasilis - where great food meets live music in Urca, Rio de Janeiro.
Restaurante Marius Degustare
1.6 km
Experience exquisite seafood and Brazilian flavors with breathtaking views at Restaurante Marius Degustare in Copacabana.
Coco Bambu
1.7 km
Experience the best of Brazilian seafood at Coco Bambu in Botafogo - where fresh flavors meet vibrant atmosphere.
Boteco Belmonte
1.7 km
Discover Boteco Belmonte: A vibrant bar and restaurant in Leme offering delicious Brazilian cuisine and an unforgettable dining experience.
Fogo de Chão
1.7 km
Experience authentic Brazilian barbecue at Fogo de Chão – where tradition meets flavor in every bite.
Miam Miam
1.9 km
Discover fresh flavors at Miam Miam in Botafogo – where gourmet meets health-conscious dining in Rio de Janeiro.
Signatures | Le Cordon Bleu
1.9 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Signatures | Le Cordon Bleu in Botafogo, where culinary artistry meets exceptional service.
Tutto Nhoque Botafogo
2.0 km
Experience the heart of Italy in Rio de Janeiro at Tutto Nhoque Botafogo - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Joaquina
2.0 km
Savor the essence of Brazil at Joaquina – a vibrant restaurant and bar in Copacabana offering authentic dishes and delightful cocktails.
Sult
2.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Sult in Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro – where every dish tells a story of culinary passion.
Restaurante The View
2.1 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine with breathtaking views at Restaurante The View in Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro.
La Villa Bistrô Francês
2.4 km
Experience exquisite modern French cuisine at La Villa Bistrô Francês in Botafogo, where culinary artistry meets an inviting atmosphere.
Assunção Restaurante
2.4 km
Discover authentic Brazilian cuisine at Assunção Restaurante in Botafogo—where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
FOM Quiosque
1.6 km
Explore FOM Quiosque, your go-to gift shop in Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro, for unique souvenirs and local crafts that capture the Brazilian spirit.
ZARA
1.7 km
Discover fashion at ZARA in Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro - a trendy clothing store offering stylish apparel and accessories for all occasions.
Shopping RioSul
1.7 km
Experience the vibrant shopping scene at Shopping RioSul in Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro, where style meets culture in a premier retail destination.
Citycol Botafogo
2.0 km
Discover the vibrant fashion scene at Citycol Botafogo, where trendy clothing meets local Brazilian style in the heart of Rio de Janeiro.
Botafogo Praia Shopping
2.0 km
Discover Botafogo Praia Shopping: Where Shopping Meets Stunning Views of Sugarloaf Mountain in Rio de Janeiro.
Casa Riachuelo - Botafogo Praia Shopping
2.0 km
Discover unique home goods at Casa Riachuelo in Botafogo, where Brazilian culture meets stylish decor in a vibrant shopping hub.
LIZIE Botafogo Praia Shopping
2.1 km
Explore the latest women's fashion trends at LIZIE Botafogo Praia Shopping, where style meets the beauty of Rio de Janeiro's coastline.
Espaço Nuvem Cestas de Presente
2.4 km
Explore Espaço Nuvem in Botafogo for exquisite gift baskets that blend creativity and quality, perfect for any celebration or heartfelt gesture.
South & Co. Botafogo
2.4 km
Explore South & Co. Botafogo for trendy clothing and accessories that capture the vibrant spirit of Rio de Janeiro's fashion scene.
Rio Copa Souvenirs
2.5 km
Explore the vibrant offerings at Rio Copa Souvenirs, where every item tells a story of the beautiful culture of Rio de Janeiro.
Lido Souvenirs
2.6 km
Explore Lido Souvenirs in Copacabana for unique handcrafted gifts, local handicrafts, and stunning natural stones that capture the essence of Brazil.
Inter Rio Presentes
2.9 km
Explore Inter Rio Presentes in Copacabana, your go-to gift shop for unique Brazilian souvenirs and local handicrafts, capturing the essence of Rio.
Shopping Anti Quario|cidade Copacabana
3.2 km
Discover the vibrant Shopping Anti Quario in Copacabana, where local charm meets modern shopping amidst the lively spirit of Rio de Janeiro.
Shopping Cidade Copacabana
3.2 km
Discover Shopping Cidade Copacabana, a vibrant shopping mall in Rio de Janeiro, offering diverse stores, delicious dining, and exciting entertainment options.
Casa Chang Presentes - Copacabana
3.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local treasures at Casa Chang Presentes, the charming gift shop in the heart of Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Black Belt Drinks
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail culture at Black Belt Drinks, where stunning views and refreshing drinks meet the spirit of Rio de Janeiro's beach life.
Sky Leme | Rooftop & Lounge
1.7 km
Experience breathtaking views and vibrant nightlife at Sky Leme, the premier rooftop bar in Rio de Janeiro's Leme neighborhood.
Coordenadas Bar
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Rio de Janeiro at Coordenadas Bar in Botafogo, known for its creative cocktails and lively atmosphere.
Isabel Lounge
2.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Rio de Janeiro at Isabel Lounge, where chic ambiance meets stunning views and expertly crafted cocktails.
Macuna Bar
2.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Rio de Janeiro at Macuna Bar, where creative cocktails and a lively atmosphere await.
Big Ben Pub
2.2 km
Discover the lively Big Ben Pub in Botafogo, a karaoke and dart bar that brings together great drinks, entertainment, and a vibrant atmosphere in Rio de Janeiro.
The Boua Kitchen Bar
2.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of The Boua Kitchen Bar in Botafogo, where gourmet burgers and a lively atmosphere create an unforgettable dining experience.
Bar Bukowski
2.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Rio de Janeiro at Bar Bukowski, where rock music and lively ambiance create unforgettable nights.
Cafofo Pub
2.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and gourmet hamburgers at Cafofo Pub in Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro - a must-visit for food lovers and social butterflies.
Bar do Aldo
2.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Rio at Bar do Aldo, a charming bar in Copacabana known for its delicious drinks and friendly ambiance.
Os Imortais Bar
2.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copacabana at Os Imortais Bar, where soul food meets lively entertainment, perfect for a memorable evening in Rio.
Quartinho Bar
2.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and creative cocktails of Quartinho Bar in Botafogo, a must-visit cocktail haven in Rio de Janeiro.
Rildy Bar
2.5 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Rildy Bar in Botafogo, where live music and vibrant nightlife create unforgettable experiences in Rio de Janeiro.
Ristorante Hotel Cipriani Bar
2.7 km
Experience the elegance of Ristorante Hotel Cipriani Bar in Copacabana, where exquisite cocktails and stunning ocean views await you.
Bar 420
2.9 km
Experience the vibrant energy of Copacabana at Bar 420, where delicious food and refreshing drinks create unforgettable moments.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Spazio Vip
1.6 km
Dive into the electrifying atmosphere of Spazio Vip, Rio's top night club, where vibrant music and dancing await every night.
Festa Trash
1.7 km
Dive into the pulsating nightlife of Rio de Janeiro at Festa Trash, a premier night club in Botafogo renowned for its electrifying atmosphere and unforgettable parties.
The Moon Lounge
2.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Rio de Janeiro at The Moon Lounge, a stylish night club in Botafogo offering exquisite cocktails and electric beats.
Boate Kalabria
2.3 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Rio at Boate Kalabria, a premier disco club in Copacabana where the party never stops.
Laje da bambina
2.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Rio de Janeiro at Laje da Bambina, where stunning views and electrifying music create unforgettable nights.
Dolce Vita
2.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Rio de Janeiro at Dolce Vita, Copacabana's premier night club for unforgettable music and dancing.
Casablanca Night Club
2.5 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife of Copacabana at Casablanca Night Club, where rhythm and fun create unforgettable memories.
CLUB 63
2.5 km
Discover the electric atmosphere of CLUB 63, Rio de Janeiro's premier night club, where unforgettable nights and vibrant dance floors await.
Milton Dias de Oliveira
2.8 km
Discover the exhilarating nightlife at Milton Dias de Oliveira, Rio de Janeiro’s premier night club, where music and culture unite.
New Mariuzinn
2.9 km
Discover the heartbeat of Rio de Janeiro's nightlife at New Mariuzinn, a vibrant night club and cocktail bar in Copacabana, where the party never stops.
Casa da Matriz
3.0 km
Discover Rio de Janeiro's vibrant nightlife at Casa da Matriz, a lively night club and burger restaurant in Botafogo, where music and culture collide.
Fonte
3.0 km
Dive into the heart of Rio's nightlife at Fonte, where music, dance, and excitement come alive in Botafogo's hottest night club.
Substation Bar Club / Balada Zona Sul / Copacabana / Siqueira Campos RJ
3.2 km
Enjoy an unforgettable night at Substation Club, a premier nightlife spot in Copacabana offering electrifying music, vibrant atmosphere, and crafted cocktails.
Fosfobox Bar Club
3.2 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife of Rio de Janeiro at Fosfobox Bar Club, where music, dance, and vibrant energy come together.
Boate 2A2
3.6 km
Discover the exhilarating nightlife at Boate 2A2 in Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro - where vibrant music meets an electric atmosphere.