Rio's most legendary address — an Art Deco icon on Copacabana beach since 1923
The Belmond Copacabana Palace is not simply the best hotel in Rio — it is a monument. The gleaming white Art Deco façade has graced the Copacabana beachfront since 1923, and over a century it has hosted the Queen of England, Princess Diana, Marlene Dietrich, and every significant figure of the 20th century who passed through South America. The rooftop pool with its unobstructed view of Copacabana beach and the bay beyond is one of the great hotel settings in the world.
The entry point into the Palace — beautifully appointed rooms with the hotel's signature black-and-white marble bathrooms, queen or twin beds, and garden views over the hotel's lush interior courtyard.
The most requested room type — same elegant appointments as the garden view but with direct floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Copacabana beach and Guanabara Bay. Worth the supplement.
A generous living area separate from the bedroom, with panoramic beach views and butler service. The preferred choice for honeymooners.
Named for the suite occupied by Princess Diana. Spanning the corner of the building with 270-degree views, a private terrace above the beach, and a dedicated butler around the clock.
The Rio outpost of the legendary Cipriani brand — exceptional Italian cuisine in an elegant room overlooking the pool. The Bellini (invented at Cipriani Venice) is obligatory. Considered one of the finest restaurants in Brazil.
The all-day restaurant beside the pool, serving Rio's best traditional breakfast, light lunches, and cocktails. The view of Copacabana beach from these tables is unmatched at any price.
A classic piano bar in the traditional mould — evening cocktails, live piano, and the atmosphere of a hotel that has entertained the world's most interesting guests for 100 years.
The hotel provides towels, chairs, and waiter service directly on Copacabana beach. The dedicated beach attendants are a hotel institution.
Copacabana has improved significantly but remains a busy, touristy area. The hotel security is excellent. Follow hotel advice on the safest beach sections and avoid walking with valuables after dark.
The hotel hosts one of the most famous Carnival balls in Rio — the Copa Ball — on the Saturday before Carnival. Tickets sell out months in advance and are one of Rio's great social events.
At $680+/night this is genuinely expensive, but for a 100-year-old five-star palace on one of the world's most famous beaches, it represents exceptional value by international luxury standards.
📌 Avenida Atlântica 1702, Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro
4km of iconic beachfront — the hotel's private section is between Postos 2 and 3.
Rio's most fashionable beach neighbourhood, around the Arpoador headland.
The cable car departs from Praia Vermelha in Urca.
Corcovado's cog train departs from Cosme Velho.