sugarloaf mountain is another natural treasure one can go sightseeing, loominh large on the skyline over looking rio de janeiro's harbor - the granite colossus is one of the city's major tourist attractions located at the mouth of guanabara bay in the neighborhood of urca.

get to the special look out spot by catching the funicular from cosme velho station first thing in the morning to beat the crowds - the picturesque landmark can also be seen from the top floor (8th story) of the mall located in the district of botafogo called botafogo praia shopping.

visiting the central area of rio can give a glimpse of the city's historical side, seeing as many museums and churches can be found here.