at a glance

copacabana beach is one of rio's residents favorite spots to play all sorts of sports, ranging from stand up surf to jogging, beach soccer, and fresco ball - to accommodate the flow of visitors to copacabana, there is a wealth of hotels in the neighborhood, in fact, this district has the highest concentration of hotels than any other neighborhood in the city.

it is a comparatively wealthy neighborhood. interestingly, with over 16% of the population being over 60 years of age it has the highest percentage of elderly citizens anywhere in the city, which has earned it the status of 'tourist capital of seniors'.

opened in 1923, the copacabana palace hotel was one of the first symbols of the neighborhood, and fundamental to the growth of the area. designed by french architect, joseph gire, the building reflects the cultural influence of the european style, of that time - it is considered one the most luxurious and traditional hotels in the country, and has hosted a glittering array of celebrities over the years, including marilyn monroe, madonna, michael jackson, elton john and princess diana.