niterói, meaning 'hidden waters' in the indigenous tupi language, and affectionately called nikity, nicki city and the cidade sorriso (smile city) by its inhabitants, is a municipality facing rio de janeiro across the guanabara bay, connected by the famous and structurally impressive bridge rio - niterói - a 2011 study found it to be the richest city in brazil.

niterói hosts a diverse array of activities for visitors, including the beautiful, clean beaches of itacoatiara and camboinhas, the lush city park, historic castles, and the architecturally ground-breaking museum of contemporary art - mac.

there are also a pleasant selection of walks and trails, such as the pedra do elefante, for the more active souls amongst the city's travelers.