Flamengo, Glória, Catete and Centro (Downtown) are areas of historical interest, dotted with landmark churches and buildings. This is the region is where Rio de Janeiro started to grow (see a brief history). There is also the mammoth Flamengo Park, a sprawling green reclaim with marinas, sports courts, museums, and a landscape design by Brazilian garden guru Burle Marx.

The main inconvenience about Flamengo, Glória and Downtown compared to other favorite neighborhoods is that you will need to depend on taxis or the subway to go to the beach. Even though there are places known as Flamengo and Botafogo Beaches, they are located on Guanabara Bay, and thus unsuitable for swimming. At night you will have to count on taxis, as the subway is closed.

There are many hotels in these neighborhoods. You will find from economy and budget alternatives to traditional staples like Hotel Glória and Novo Mundo. Hotels in these areas may be a better-priced alternative for high season events like Carnival and New Years. The Samba Parade happens at the Sambodrome, in the Downtown area; the contest of luxury costumes is held at Glória, and there are street balls and festivities all around. Click on selected properties for details, rates and free reservations. Additional links will take you to highlights, attractions and maps of each area.