Rio de Janeiro stretches between beach and mountain, with colonial neighborhoods, modernist style and that addictive sound that ties it all together: samba. Whether you want to watch the sunset over Arpoador, dance to live samba at a Centro bar, people-watch in Ipanema or enjoy a seafood feast, we show you how.

• Detailed Carnaval information gets you to the heart of the festivities

• More than 150 mouth-watering restaurant reviews for all budgets, plus extensive nightlife options

• Accommodation options for every style of travel

• Best samba schools for beginners and the hottest samba clubs

• Comprehensive coverage of every neighborhood