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Why Rock in Rio is worth the long-haul trip
One of the largest music festivals on earth, Rock in Rio packs hundreds of thousands of fans into the City of Rock across multiple days each September. Pair it with Rio’s beaches, Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf for an unforgettable music holiday.
Getting there: flights
Fly into Rio de Janeiro–Galeão (GIG). Long-haul fares are the biggest cost of this trip, so book as early as possible and stay flexible on dates.
→ Search flights to Rio de Janeiro
Where to stay
Base yourself in Copacabana or Ipanema for beaches and transport, or Barra da Tijuca to be closer to the festival site. Book early — prices jump during the festival.
Where to stay: your options compared
| Base | Vibe | Price | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Copacabana | Beach + transport links | €€€ | Classic Rio base |
| Ipanema | Upscale beach district | €€€ | Style + comfort |
| Barra da Tijuca | Closest to the venue | €€ | Minimising travel |
Getting around
Rio’s metro plus official festival shuttle buses are the easiest way to reach the City of Rock. Avoid driving on festival nights.
Money-saving tips
- Book long-haul flights 4–6 months ahead.
- Travel with friends and share an apartment in Copacabana.
- Use the metro + shuttle combo instead of taxis.
- Compare multi-day passes vs single-day tickets.
Getting from the airport
Skip the taxi queues after a long flight — pre-book a private airport transfer with Kiwitaxi and go straight from the terminal to your hotel.
Stay connected: get an eSIM
Skip pricey roaming charges — grab a local data Airalo eSIM before you fly so maps, ride-hailing and tickets work the moment you land.
Plan your Rock in Rio trip
Flights are the make-or-break cost here — start watching fares now.