Rio de Janeiro Bars and Nightclubs

Rio de Janeiro has a lively and eclectic nightlife, ranging from rustic but hospitable grungy bars to mainstream, lavish night clubs that cater to Rio’s young elite. Here are a few places where you can sip a Caipirinha or Samba the night away.

Copacabana and Ipanema are home a variety of bars that fit anyone’s style, such as Bip Bip, a Botequim (very small but friendly) bar that welcomes jamming musicians during the week; Caroline Cafe, where Rio’s young and gorgeous middle-class enjoy a cocktail or beer after work; and Devassa, a two-floor pub and restaurant that brews its own unique beer.

Situated in a 3-story colonial house in Lapa, the nightlife district of Rio, Rio Scenarium is considered the best in town with beautiful Brazilians dancing until the early morning hours in this building that was once used as movie prop warehouse.

Come see up-and-coming musicians of Rio’s Samba-funk scene perform at Melt, a two-story club that houses a fully-equipped bar downstairs and a dance club upstairs.

Casa da Matriz in Botafogo is a two-floor grungy nightclub that is immensely popular with Rio students. With different nights dedicated to Brazilian, rock, and even indie music, as well as an Atari room and small cinema, this club has something for everyone.

Carioca da Gema in Rio’s city center features live Samba bands playing to a festive crowd on weekends. However, Monday nights are just as fun when Richah, a famous voice in the Samba world sings classic Carnaval songs.