Flamengo and Botafogo
Trip Ideas
Located between Centro and the Zona Sul, Flamengo and Botafogo are well served by buses and Metrô. Both bairros possess a faded grandeur coupled with a lively neighborhood atmosphere that makes them appealing—and significantly more affordable—untouristy alternatives to the Zona Sul beach scene.
R$50–100
One of Rio’s most popular hostels is Albergue de Juventude Chave do Rio (Rua General Dionísio 63, Botafogo, tel. 21/2286-0303, www.riohostel.com.br, R$30–40 pp). Located in an attractively renovated old house, its dormitory rooms are outfitted with bright blue bunks that can sleep up to 70 backpackers. The surrounding area has a great selection of bars and nightlife options.
R$100–200
When the Hotel Regina (Rua Ferreira Viana 29, Flamengo, tel. 21/3289-9999, www.hotelregina.com.br, R$154 d) opened in the mid-1920s, around the corner from the Palácio do Catete, it quickly became the hotel of choice for government diplomats and ministers. Although a few architectural remnants allude to its history, the Regina is hardly as grand as it once was. However, its small rooms are bright and comfortable, and it is well located on a quiet street half a block from the Parque de Flamengo.
R$200–300
Hotel Flórida (Rua Ferreira Viana 81, Flamengo, tel. 21/2195-6800, www.windsorhoteis.com.br, R$250–310 d) is a tried-and-true Flamengo favorite, owned by the Windsor hotel chain. Rooms are sizable and discreetly decorated. The most attractive ones overlook the gardens of the Palácio do Catete. Free Internet service, a rooftop pool, and the option of breakfast in bed are welcome extras.
© Michael Sommers from Moon Brazil, 2nd Edition
Buy Moon Travel Guides
Search
Moon Travel Guides make independent travel and outdoor exploration fun and accessible. With expert and adventurous travel writers delivering a mix of honest insight, first-rate strategic travel advice, insider travel tips and an essential dose of humor, Moon Travel Guides ensure that travelers have an uncommon and entirely satisfying experience. Each travel book is filled with unique trip ideas, easy-to-use maps, and detailed information on sights, restaurants, and accommodations. Moon Travel Guides not only point you in the right direction, they inspire new ideas and adventure. Whether you are seeking a relaxing beach trip to Hawaii, or an adventure travel trip to the rainforests of Costa Rica, Moon guidebooks—and Moon.com—are with you every step of the way. Founded in 1973, the Moon Travel Guides series includes Moon Handbooks, Moon Outdoors, Moon Metro, Moon Living Abroad and Moon Spotlight travel books. Moon is based in Berkeley, California and is a proud member of the Perseus Books Group.