Brazil · tool
How much does Rio de Janeiro cost?
Daily budget breakdown across three tiers — so you can realistically plan your Rio de Janeiro trip before you book anything.
Photo by Agustin Diaz Gargiulo on Unsplash
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil travel budget
Realistic daily cost per person across three spending tiers. All figures in USD.
Budget
$45–$85
per day
Hostels, street food, public transit
Accommodation
$15–$30
Hostel dorm bed or a very basic shared Airbnb.
Food
$10–$20
Street food, 'prato feito' (set meals), and self-catering.
Transport
$5–$10
Metro, public buses, and walking.
Activities
$5–$10
Free beaches, hiking in Tijuca Forest, exploring neighborhoods.
Misc
$10–$15
Souvenirs, water, occasional treats.
Mid-range
$150–$250
per day
3-star hotels, mix of restaurants, some taxis
Accommodation
$50–$90
3-star hotel or a comfortable private Airbnb in a good neighborhood.
Food
$40–$70
Mix of casual restaurants, 'kilo' buffets, and some nicer dining.
Transport
$20–$30
Taxis (Uber/99 apps are common and affordable), occasional private transfers.
Activities
$25–$40
Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, museum visits, guided tours.
Misc
$15–$20
Drinks, snacks, small purchases.
Luxury
$350–$700
per day
4-5 star hotels, premium dining, private transfers
Accommodation
$150–$300
4-5 star hotel with amenities or a high-end beachfront apartment.
Food
$70–$150
Fine dining, tasting menus, premium bars.
Transport
$50–$100
Private car services, airport transfers, chauffeur-driven options.
Activities
$50–$100
Private guided tours, helicopter rides, exclusive experiences.
Misc
$30–$50
High-end shopping, spa treatments, premium beverages.
Destination-specific money tips
- •Using ride-sharing apps like Uber and 99 is significantly cheaper and more convenient than hailing taxis directly.
- •While credit cards are common, always carry some cash (Reais) for smaller vendors, street food, and tips.
- •ATMs in tourist areas can sometimes have higher fees; look for ATMs associated with major Brazilian banks.
- •Bargaining is not common in Rio's shops or restaurants, but a polite negotiation might be possible in street markets.
- •Many 'kilo' restaurants (pay by weight) offer excellent value for lunch, allowing you to sample various Brazilian dishes.
Plan the rest of your Rio de Janeiro trip
Trip budgets elsewhere