Ipanema, Leblon and Arpoador share the same beach, and have similar features. Smaller and more affluent than Copacabana, these areas concentrate some of Rio's most sophisticated shopping, restaurants, bars, cafés and dance clubs. Theaters, movie theaters, cultural centers, art galleries - even a couple of gem museums complete the winning combination. Everything is in a walking distance.

The beach lane is lined up with some of Rio's most sophisticated (and expensive) residential buildings. Inner streets still have many townhouses and four-story buildings. Many houses were turned into boutiques, restaurants and cafés, so you always find novelties. Walk a few blocks away from the beach, and you will end up in the sprawling park around Lagoa Park - a favorite leisure area with sports courts, skate bowls, gourmet kiosks, etc.

Many of Rio's most traditional boutiques started in Ipanema, later to be exported to the malls, and other parts of town. Don't miss a day of shopping, or at least window-shopping. The main street in Ipanema, Rua Visconde de Pirajá, changes names to Ataulfo de Paiva in Leblon (see map). This is where you find specialty stores, gyms, bookstores, supermarkets, 24-hour newsstands and drugstores, and everything else you can imagine.

Cross streets in Leblon also have interesting spots to explore. The filthy rich live along the beach, or in the mansions of Jardim Pernambuco. An interesting area to explore is Baixo Leblon, on Rua Dias Ferreira and in the beginning of Ataulfo de Paiva. There are many cafes, restaurants, bars and venues that remain open until very late. Transportation to other parts of town is easily available.

Rates tend to be a little higher in Ipanema and Leblon than in Copacabana and Leme. Your lodging alternatives include budget values, first-class and luxury properties, as well as all-suite hotels. Click on the names for insider's reviews, details, photos and rates. Take advantage of our free booking service, and pay directly at the front desk the low rates quoted online. Additional links will take you to highlights, attractions and clickable maps of each area.