10 things you can't miss in Rio de Janeiro

Do you want to experience Rio de Janeiro to the max? We'll show you how...

Rio de Janeiro is one of the most desirable destinations for fun loving travellers. Famous for its Carnival and its beaches, the city of Rio has plenty to offer even backpackers who don't have a lot of money in their pockets.

We've already talked about some of the main things to do in Rio and even brought you advice from a local, but outside of the classic tourist attractions there are some things that you really shouldn't miss.

Do you want to know what they are? We've found as many as 10!

1. HIRE A BIKE AND EXPLORE THE BEACH

The word "bicycle" and the word "Rio" go hand in hand, given the many cycle paths around the city.

There are several excellent bike routes, but perhaps the most striking is the one on the waterfront.

Be careful of traffic though, Rio de Janeiro is a very busy city and you need to keep your wits about you when you're on a bike.

2. TAKE A SURFING LESSON AT PRAINHA

You can't stay in the land of surfing and not give it a go! Book a surfing lesson at Prainha, one of the most beautiful and less touristy beaches in Rio.

3. BUY A COCONUT ON THE BEACH AT A KIOSK

After you've taken a bike ride or had a surfing lesson, gather your strength in true Brazilian style, by drinking from a fresh coconut. Buy your coconut from a kiosk on the beach so you can drink your coconut water while sitting on the sand in the sunshine, rather than sitting in a bar.

4. CLIMB UP TO PEDRA DA GAVEA AND ENJOY THE LANDSCAPE

If you love walking, we strongly encourage you to climb up to Pedra da Gávea, in the Tijuca Forest, where you can see the whole city of Rio the Janeiro from above.

5. EXPLORE THE FAVELAS ON A TOUR

We don't recommend that you go into the favelas alone as there are places where you have to be very careful and that are even avoided by the locals, but if you want to visit them, you can take one of the many organised tours.

6. GO PARAGLIDING FROM PEDRA BONITA

Are you ready for an adrenaline rush? Then try paragliding from Pedra Bonita! Your heart is sure to take a leap, but the landscape you'll see spread out before you will take your breath away, and once you are back on the ground and the fear subsides, it's an experience that you'll never forget.

7. VISIT THE OLYMPIC STADIUM AND SEE A GAME

Visit the stadium that hosted the last Olympic Games, and if you get the chance try to see a game here.

8. ENJOY THE SUNSET AT ARPOADOR

Brazil is famous for its sunsets, but those at Arpoador, to the south of Rio de Janeiro, are unbeatable.

The beautiful colours of the sun in the sky are reflected on the waters of the ocean before hiding behind a cliff... truly magical.

If you can try to see it with friends.

9. EXPLORE THE SATURDAY HIPPY FAIR AT IPANEMA

If you're an art lover you can't miss the Hippie Fair in Ipanema, which takes place every Saturday.

Here you can find artifacts and original paintings at very reasonable prices. One piece of advice: Hold onto your wallets as pickpockets are at work here.

10. VISIT A SAMBA SCHOOL

Brazil has a party atmosphere, and samba is at the heart of it. The samba is a typical Brazilian musical style, and if you want to understand the culture of this country a little better, you should try to learn more about their favourite dance.

Take a lesson - it won't teach you everything you need to know, but at least you'll have given it a try!