Copacabana Palace

The perennial recommendation for luxurious hotels in Rio de Janeiro is the Copacabana Palace, and it’s not hard to see why it has such status. The imposing splendor is spread across 226 rooms that combine a careful mix of traditional classic decor with touches of contemporary elegance. Declared as a National Historical Heritage site in 1989, it also featured in the 1933 film Flying Down to Rio starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers and has been a popular accommodation spot on the celebrity circuit ever since, hosting the likes of Madonna, Mick Jagger, and Hugh Jackson. Other highlights at the hotel include the full-equipped spa, two high-end restaurants MEE (which has a Michelin-star) and Cipriani, complete-service salon, and a swimming pool bar with personalized service. Have a look here to check prices and availability.

Copacabana Palace, Av. Atlântica, 1702 – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro, +55 (21) 2548 7070

Santa Teresa Hotel

Based in the city’s bohemian hillsides, the Santa Teresa Hotel offers an alternative escape and experience from Rio’s body-conscious sandy shores. A former coffee plantation, the hotel was later renovated into a luxurious retreat. The gorgeous green gardens are home to the polished getaway venue that combines contemporary with low-key rustic details and stunning views. The outdoor swimming pool is surrounded by crisp white futons and low tables, setting a glamorous scene to sip cocktails and nibble on light snacks in Rio’s balmy nights. Santa Teresa Hotel boasts one of the city’s best spas, in addition to an upscale restaurant and intimate bar. Have a look here to check prices and availability.

Santa Teresa Hotel, R. Alm. Alexandrino, 660 – Santa Teresa, Rio de Janeiro, +55 (21) 3380 0200

Casa Mosquito

Casa Mosquito strikes a startling contrast against the nearby favela, yet it retreats back off the main road and nestles into the hills, providing a cocoon of comfort and luxury from the outside world. The minimalistic design creates a clean fresh look to this restored mansion, yet the owners were keen to place their quirky personal stamp on it – the rooms are named after unlikely Rio icons such as the famous Madame Sata, a drag performer from the 1900s. The rooms have that breezy, luxury ambient, yet it’s the rooftop that is the killer deal – a large, open veranda with a swimming pool, well-stocked bar, and a breath-taking panoramic view of the south zone’s glorious coastline. 

Casa Mosquito, R. Saint Roman, 222 – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro, +55 (21) 3586 5042

Fasano Hotel

With its privileged spot on the edge of Ipanema beach, Fasano Hotel is the Ipanema’s more modern and trendy version of Copacabana Palace yet with all the same luxury. The aloof yet ultra attentive staff maintain the air of upscale sophistication, as does the contemporary, atmospheric ambiance with touches of the Orient. The wood furniture, tropical blooms, and mix of brass and marble details lift the mood and create an elegant setting. Highlights include a full-service spa and a rooftop bar with a swimming pool that overlooks the ocean. With past guests including Beyonce and Rihanna, this place spares no expense when it comes to looking after their clients. Have a look here to check prices and availability.

Fasano Hotel, Av. Vieira Souto, 80 – Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro, +55 (21) 3202 4000

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La Suite

Nestled up in the tropical forest-coated hills of Joatinga, La Suite is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle city life. With features such as helicopter pads, antique decorations, and chandeliers, the hotel exudes A-list luxury, yet keeps the atmosphere grounded and light with friendly staff and few rooms for optimal service that aims to meet all whims. The surrounding broad palm leaves and colourful flowers add an exotic touch and the wide, floor-to-ceiling windows bring the outside in and provide a secluded, tranquil haven. Have a look here to check prices and availability.

La Suite,  R. Jackson de Figueiredo, 501 – Joá, Rio de Janeiro , +55 (21) 3259 6123

TuaKaza

For another concealed retreat, TuaKaza is tucked into the Sao Conrado hillsides and provides a total sanctuary from any reminder of the tos and fros of urban life. The fact the hotel is only accessible by car adds to its exclusive mystery as visitors take the winding road up the hill and through the Atlantic forest. The hotel itself is surrounded by large tropical plants and exotic birds and is defined by impressive features such as a man-made waterfall, swimming pools with paradisiacal natural backdrops, and a personalised service. There are only six rooms in the hotel with glamorous names such as Kiwi and Amora. Have a look here to check prices and availability.

TuaKaza, Estr. das Canoas, 2600 – São Conrado, Rio de Janeiro, +55 (21) 3322 6715