KEY2

Best bars in Rio de Janeiro

Cocktail rooms, rooftops and unmarked doors — where to start a night and where to end one.

Rio Scenarium
KEY2 Pick

Samba Club • $$$

Rio Scenarium

A three-storey antiques-filled Lapa samba hall with live bands and dancing packed to the rafters most nights.

Best for: Big Night Out

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Bar Astor

Cocktail Bar • $$$

Bar Astor

A 1930s-styled beachfront caipirinha bar on Ipanema's sand, busiest through sunset.

Best for: Sundowners

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Esch Cafe

Cigar Bar & Lounge • $$$

Esch Cafe

An Ipanema jazz-and-cigar lounge with live sets most nights and a well-stocked bar.

Best for: Live Music

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The Week

Nightclub • $$$

The Week

Rio's biggest LGBTQ+ nightclub in Barra da Tijuca, running international DJs across a warehouse-sized main room.

Best for: Big Night Out

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Questions, answered

What are the best bars in Rio de Janeiro?+

The KEY2 editors' top picks for bars in Rio de Janeiro are Rio Scenarium. Every listing in this guide is individually vetted, with hours, prices and booking links.

What are the best bars in Rio de Janeiro for a special occasion?+

For a splurge, the KEY2 guide recommends Rio Scenarium, Bar Astor, Esch Cafe, The Week. Reserve ahead — the booking link is on each listing.

Do I need to book bars in Rio de Janeiro in advance?+

The most popular bars in Rio de Janeiro fill up days or weeks ahead. Every KEY2 listing includes a direct reservation or booking link where one is available.

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