Over the past few years, Rio de Janeiro has been rebranding itself as a top destination for LGBT tourism. While there is still an anti-homosexual presence in the Brazilian government, Rio de Janeiro boasts a progressive attitude that welcomes gay travelers from around the world, even releasing a video to advertise its gay-friendly neighborhoods.
About 26 percent of visitors to Brazil’s biggest cities identify as gay, and Rio de Janeiro’s 2014 Carnival owes just more than 30 percent of its revenue to LGBT tourists. If you venture out to São Paulo, you will find they have one of the biggest gay pride parades in the world with more than 3.5 million participants.
Rio is also home to some of the most popular gay beaches in the world. Copacabana is the city’s iconic beach neighborhood, whose crescent-shaped coast stretches for four kilometers. There are plenty of hotels to choose from, as well as interesting Art Deco architecture in the north. Copacabana is also the site for Rio’s legendary New Year’s celebration and LGBT Pride festival.
While Copacabana is world famous, LGBT tourists will cite the adjacent Ipanema as their top choice for a gay-friendly neighborhood. Travel Channel even listed it as one of the sexiest beaches in the world. There is plenty of gay nightlife, restaurants and shopping in the neighborhoods. Hotels are available in all price ranges, though they are a little more expensive than Copacabana.
To learn more about visiting Brazil and Rio de Janeiro, go to VisitBrasil.com.
Read This Next
LGBT: Barcelona
LGBTQIA+
Oct 10, 2014#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedHotel
Apr 29, 2025Fairmont Royal York’s Spring Programming
Take in the Splendor of Spring, a curated selection of activities and events, at Fairmont Royal York.
Sponsored Content
Unveiling Europe’s Treasures with AmaWaterways River Cruises
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with AmaWaterways, recognized as Best River Cruise Line by Cruise Critic. What sets AmaWaterways apart is its commitment to offering you the luxury of more. With up to eight daily included excursion options, you have the freedom to tailor your journey to your interests. Whether you're a history buff, a culinary enthusiast or an architecture aficionado, there's something for everyone on the meticulously crafted itineraries. You will also be treated to a range of exquisitely prepared meals in the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, unlimited wine and beer during lunch and dinner, an array of complimentary host-led fitness classes, and so much more.
Slideshow
Apr 29, 20257 Must-See Sites in Sapporo, Japan
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here are seven must-see sites in Sapporo, Japan.
Hotel
Apr 29, 20254 Hotels Taking Advantage of Summer Fridays
With summer around the corner, many companies in corporate America gear up for the start of summer Fridays. Summer Fridays can come in handy when making summer travel plans, and can give you some extra time to travel in the afternoon to enjoy a full weekend away. We’ve rounded up some hotels in destinations that are easy to get to and perfect for taking advantage of a summer Friday.
Sponsored Content
Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City
They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.
Surveys
Apr 28, 2025Study Reports Americans Increased Spending on 2025 Spring Break
Spring break may already be in your rearview mirror, and you might be looking forward to your summer vacay — but did you save enough cash after your springtime travel? A new study from Allianz Partners found Americans spent quite a bit more on their spring break trips this year than they did in 2024. The average spring break trip was $5,325 in 2025, more than a 10 percent increase from 2024.
ShareThis