Promenade Palladium Leblon leads the pack with a jaw-dropping 9.8 location score and 9.5 staff rating. For pure luxury, Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel, posts a flawless 9.8 comfort score and 9.7 hospitality. Both sit on opposite ends of Rio’s beachfront, and both deliver five-star service at peak Brazilian standards.
Rio’s south zone is stacked with 5-star hotels, but the difference between a great stay and an unforgettable one comes down to location scores, cleanliness, and the view from your window.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 20 properties with 46,600+ total verified guest reviews across Rio de Janeiro, prioritizing properties with an average guest score of 8.4/10 and location ratings above 8.0 to compile this definitive ranking of the best 5 star hotel in Brazil picks.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Best location (Leblon/Copacabana): #20 Promenade Palladium Leblon→ Rates
#15 Copacabana Palace→ Rates - Cleanest rooms: #11 Hilton Barra Rio de Janeiro→ Rates
- Top luxury with beach service: #15 Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel→ Rates
#16 Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana→ Rates - Best for families: #8 PortoBay Rio de Janeiro→ Rates
#11 Hilton Barra Rio de Janeiro→ Rates - Pet-friendly pick: #10 Grand Hyatt Rio de Janeiro→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Miramar By Windsor Copacabana | (4,650+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Downtown Santana Hotel | (4,350+ Reviews) |
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| 3. Mirador Rio Copacabana Hotel | (4,250+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Scorial Rio Hotel | (4,050+ Reviews) |
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| 5. Atlantis Copacabana Hotel | (3,900+ Reviews) |
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| 6. Windsor Leme Hotel | (3,400+ Reviews) |
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| 7. Hotel Belas Artes | (2,500+ Reviews) |
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| 8. PortoBay Rio de Janeiro | (2,450+ Reviews) |
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| 9. Grand Mercure Rio de Janeiro Copacabana | (2,050+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Grand Hyatt Rio de Janeiro | (2,050+ Reviews) |
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| 11. Hilton Barra Rio de Janeiro | (1,900+ Reviews) |
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| 12. B&B HOTEL Rio Copacabana Posto 5 | (1,600+ Reviews) |
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| 13. Parque Hotel | (1,550+ Reviews) |
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| 14. Hotel Fênix (Adult Only) | (1,200+ Reviews) |
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| 15. Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel | (1,200+ Reviews) |
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| 16. Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana | (1,150+ Reviews) |
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| 17. Solar Hostel Centro | (1,150+ Reviews) |
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| 18. Yoo2 Rio de Janeiro, Tapestry Collection by Hilton | (1,000+ Reviews) |
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| 19. Hotel Plage | (900+ Reviews) |
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| 20. Promenade Palladium Leblon | (900+ Reviews) |
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Detailed Reviews: 20 Five-Star Hotels in Brazil, Across Rio
1. Miramar By Windsor Copacabana
The Vibe
Right across from the famous Copacabana Beach, this five-star property pairs a green granite pool with a modern fitness center. Staff hits a 9.5 score, and guests keep calling out the gigantic rooms and spotless bathrooms. The rooftop view of the coastline seals the deal for many repeat visitors.
What You Actually Get
Rooms are spacious with high-end bedding, plus you get an outdoor swimming pool, hot tub, and an airport shuttle for easy arrivals. The hotel provides facilities for disabled guests and serves a breakfast that reviewers consistently call “wonderful.” Free private parking is rare along the Atlântica strip — this is one of the few that has it. Children 9 and above are charged as adults, so check your booking details if traveling with kids.
Choose this if: You want direct Copacabana access without car hassle — free parking here is almost unheard-of.
2. Downtown Santana Hotel
The Vibe
This hotel sits close to the Marquês de Sapucaí Sambadrome and Maracanã Stadium, making it a strong pick for Carnival or match-day stays. Guests note that while most staff are great, English isn’t widely spoken — brush up on your Portuguese or have a translation app handy.
What You Actually Get
Rooms are simple but functional, with air conditioning and daily housekeeping. The free private parking and 24-hour front desk add convenience, and the buffet breakfast is a solid start to the day. Family rooms are available, and the hotel welcomes children (ages 2+ are charged as adults). Note that pets aren’t allowed. Many guests say this property has more repeat visitors than most — a sign of reliable value in the city center.
Choose this if: You’re in town for an event at the Sambadrome or Maracanã and need a budget-friendly five-star base.
3. Mirador Rio Copacabana Hotel
The Vibe
The rooftop pool here offers panoramic Rio views that rival hotels twice the price. Cleanliness hits 8.8, rooms are well equipped, and late checkout is often available for a minimal extra fee. Pets are allowed (charges apply), which is a bonus for travelers with four-legged companions.
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with free WiFi, air conditioning, and private bathrooms. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and a restaurant serving a very good breakfast. Note that rooms don’t have balconies — if outdoor space is a must, consider #1 or #6 instead. The property also has facilities for disabled guests and offers private parking. Children of all ages are welcome.
Choose this if: You’re bringing a pet and still want a quality five-star stay near Copacabana.
4. Scorial Rio Hotel
The Vibe
Scorial has a loyal fan base — the staff score of 9.5 is among the highest in this entire list. Guests rave about the restaurant (“the top,” one reviewer wrote) and the view of Christ the Redeemer from upper-floor rooms. The two rooftop pools give it a resort feel in the Flamengo neighborhood.
What You Actually Get
Each room features big beds and big showers — guests mention the spacious bathrooms as a highlight. The hotel serves a wonderful breakfast, has a fitness center, and includes free WiFi and private parking. Families are welcome (children 9+ charged as adults), but pets are not allowed. Note the hotel doesn’t provide irons in rooms — laundry service is available instead. Cancellation policies vary, so check your booking window carefully.
Choose this if: Service quality is your top priority — this staff score is elite even among five-star Rio hotels.
5. Atlantis Copacabana Hotel
The Vibe
This property sits in a sweet spot — 500 meters from both Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, in what Booking.com users rate as Rio’s best area. The terrace offers Atlantic Ocean views, and the hotel sees more repeat guests than most in this category. Cleanliness and comfort both score 8.8.
What You Actually Get
Rooms include free WiFi (speed rated 8.8 by guests), air conditioning, and elevators for easy access. The very good breakfast is included in many rates. There’s an outdoor swimming pool, 24-hour front desk, and family rooms. Children 6 and above are charged as adults. Pets aren’t allowed. The location score of 9.5 means you’re steps from the best beaches, bars, and restaurants in the Zona Sul.
Choose this if: You want a five-star hotel that puts both Copacabana and Ipanema within a 5-minute walk.
6. Windsor Leme Hotel
The Vibe
Windsor Leme sits opposite Leme Beach — the quieter, southern end of the Copacabana crescent. Comfort scores 9.1, one of the highest in the zone, and guests consistently praise the beautiful rooftop pool and stunning views. The staff rating of 9.0 rounds out a solid five-star experience.
What You Actually Get
Rooms feature comfortable beds and modern bathrooms. The hotel offers a fitness center, room service, and a restaurant with a very good breakfast. Free WiFi is available, and the property is family-friendly (children 9+ charged as adults). Pets are allowed on request with charges. The beach is literally across the street — no shuttle needed, as one Q&A cheekily points out.
Choose this if: You want Copacabana’s vibe but with a quieter beachfront and fewer crowds.
7. Hotel Belas Artes
The Vibe
Situated in Rio’s historical city center, Hotel Belas Artes offers free WiFi and a daily buffet breakfast. The location is well-rated at 8.2 for those exploring downtown Rio’s museums and architecture. Staff scores a solid 8.3, and the hotel sees many returning guests who appreciate the value.
What You Actually Get
Rooms include air conditioning and 24-hour front desk service. The hotel has an elevator and offers family rooms. WiFi speed is rated 7.5 — fine for browsing but not heavy streaming. Breakfast is good but served only from 6:30 to 9:00 AM, so late sleepers may miss it. Pets are not allowed. Special check-in rules apply for minors traveling without both parents — a Brazilian federal requirement.
Choose this if: Your itinerary centers on downtown Rio, the Selarón Steps, and the Municipal Theater.
8. PortoBay Rio de Janeiro
The Vibe
PortoBay boasts some of the best views in Rio — Sugarloaf, Corcovado, and the entire Copacabana beachfront are visible from upper floors. The Bossa Nova bar adds a genuine musical touch, and the staff rating of 9.3 shows consistent service quality. Breakfast is frequently called “fantastic” by guests.
What You Actually Get
Rooms include tea/coffee makers and come with free WiFi rated 9.1 — one of the strongest connections on this list. The outdoor swimming pool, restaurant, and airport shuttle add convenience. Beachfront access means you’re steps from the sand. The hotel is family-friendly with no extra child charges by default. Note that more than 5 rooms booked triggers different policies. Pets are not allowed.
Choose this if: You want iconic Rio views from your hotel, including both Sugarloaf and Christ the Redeemer.
9. Grand Mercure Rio de Janeiro Copacabana
The Vibe
This Grand Mercure property is right opposite Copacabana Beach, and guests love the safe, vibrant neighborhood where you can walk comfortably until midnight. Breakfast gets special mentions for variety and healthy options, with new items appearing daily.
What You Actually Get
Rooms are non-smoking, and the hotel offers an outdoor pool, fitness center, and room service. The good breakfast costs approximately €20 if not included in your rate. Note that Superior Business rooms don’t accommodate extra children, while Deluxe and Standard rooms can take one extra child. Children 13+ are charged as adults. Pets are allowed on request. Early check-in is granted based on availability.
Choose this if: You want a reliable, accessible five-star property with a pool, one block from Copacabana sand.
Check Tonight’s Price for Grand Mercure Rio de Janeiro Copacabana →
10. Grand Hyatt Rio de Janeiro
The Vibe
The Grand Hyatt sits in Barra da Tijuca, a sprawling beach neighborhood west of the tourist core. Facilities score 9.3 and cleanliness 9.4 — both among the best in this guide. The resort fee includes daily activities, caipirinha tasting, and access to the Atiaia Spa. It’s a full resort experience rather than a city hotel.
What You Actually Get
Rooms have tea/coffee makers, pool views, and work desks. Two swimming pools, a fitness center, and an airport shuttle are on-site. The wonderful breakfast and free WiFi (rated 9.0) round out the amenities. Pets are allowed with charges. Children 13+ are charged as adults. Note that a family of four may need two connecting rooms rather than one — check the room configuration before booking.
Choose this if: You want a luxurious resort stay with pools, spa, and activities — and don’t mind being outside the Zona Sul tourist zone.
11. Hilton Barra Rio de Janeiro
The Vibe
The Hilton Barra nails the basics — a 9.5 cleanliness score and 9.5 comfort mean rooms are spotless and beds are excellent. It’s right next to Mall Metropolitano and close to Barra Shopping, making it a top choice for business travelers or anyone wanting the Barra district’s convenience.
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with tea/coffee makers and free WiFi (speed rated 7.9). The hotel has an outdoor pool, fitness center, and private parking. Breakfast is good, and the restaurant serves dinner. Pets are allowed with charges. Note that late checkout (until 18:00) costs 50% of the daily rate, and after 18:00 it’s a full day charge — plan your departure accordingly.
Choose this if: Cleanliness is non-negotiable — this is the most spotless property in the entire guide.
12. B&B HOTEL Rio Copacabana Posto 5
The Vibe
A blend of modern facilities and classical décor gives this property a unique feel. The rooftop pool offers panoramic views of Sugarloaf Mountain, and the location — just one block from Copacabana Beach — is hard to beat. Staff score 8.7 and the WiFi speed is 8.7 as well.
What You Actually Get
Rooms are modern with air conditioning, and the hotel has a 24-hour front desk and facilities for disabled guests. The very good breakfast is included in some rates but not all — check your booking. Small dogs are allowed (one per room, vaccination card required). Guests can store luggage and use the pool after checkout, which is a nice perk for late flights.
Choose this if: You want a modern, comfortable base one block from Copacabana with a view of Rio’s iconic peak.
Check Tonight’s Price for B&B HOTEL Rio Copacabana Posto 5 →
13. Parque Hotel
The Vibe
Parque Hotel is a straightforward five-star option in the Centro district, close to the Selarón Steps and Municipal Theater. Value scores highest at 8.0, making it a budget-conscious choice in this list. The hotel provides free private parking — a real plus in the city center.
What You Actually Get
Rooms have air conditioning, an elevator, and daily housekeeping. Free WiFi is available (speed rated 6.8 — expect basic browsing). The good breakfast is included. Pets are not allowed, and children 6+ are charged as adults. Late checkout may be available but depends on the period and incurs a fee. The 24-hour front desk can help with taxi arrangements for late arrivals.
Choose this if: You need free parking in downtown Rio and want to stay close to the Selarón Steps and Lapa nightlife.
14. Hotel Fênix (Adult Only)
The Vibe
Hotel Fênix is designed as a love hotel — adult entertainment is the theme, and the décor reflects that purpose. The property is clean (8.6), staff are highly rated (8.8), and guests appreciate the privacy and comfort. Free private parking and good breakfast are included, but parking has a 6.6-foot vehicle height limit.
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with free WiFi (rated 8.5), air conditioning, and daily housekeeping. The 24-hour front desk and room service are available. Breakfast is good and included. No children are allowed — this is strictly adults only. Pets are not allowed. The location is an 18-minute walk from the Selarón Steps, putting Lapa nightlife within easy reach.
Choose this if: You’re an adult couple seeking privacy, comfort, and a unique Rio accommodation experience without kids around.
15. Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel, Rio de Janeiro
The Vibe
Copacabana Palace is the grand dame of Rio — a legendary property that’s hosted celebrities, royalty, and Hollywood stars since 1923. Scores are off the charts: comfort 9.8, staff 9.7, cleanliness 9.7, facilities 9.5. Guests describe it as “incredibly beautiful chic sophistication” with “impeccable service.”
What You Actually Get
Rooms feature marbled bathrooms and panoramic ocean views. The hotel offers beach service with towels, chairs, and sunshades. Two restaurants, a fitness center, and a stunning outdoor pool (temporarily closed during certain periods — check before booking) complete the experience. The wonderful breakfast is included. Pets under 5 kg are allowed with charges. Internet speed is 20 MB — strong enough for Zoom meetings. Children 18+ are charged as adults, and kids 6-12 pay 50% for breakfast.
Choose this if: Money is no object and you want the most iconic five-star experience in Brazil — this is the benchmark.
Check Tonight’s Price for Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel, Rio de Janeiro →
16. Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana
The Vibe
The Fairmont occupies a classic Copacabana building that’s been nicely renovated — guests say it “looks old but feels new.” Location scores 9.4, and cleanliness and comfort both hit 8.9. The breakfast is extensive (though pricey), and the beach service includes sunbeds directly on Copacabana sand.
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with irons (yes, they have them — a rare detail guests ask about). The hotel has an outdoor pool, fitness center, and airport shuttle. The excellent breakfast offers huge variety, but it’s not cheap. Pets are allowed with charges. Free WiFi is rated 9.0. Note that minors under 18 need parental authorization — a Brazilian federal law requirement.
Choose this if: You want a historic Copacabana address with modern updates, pet-friendly policy, and direct beach service.
Check Tonight’s Price for Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana →
17. Solar Hostel Centro
The Vibe
Despite the name, Solar Hostel Centro operates as a hotel with air-conditioned rooms in the Centro district. It’s an 11-minute walk from the Municipal Theater, making it convenient for downtown exploring. Staff score 8.7 — high for a budget-oriented five-star property.
What You Actually Get
Rooms include air conditioning and free WiFi (rated 8.1). The 24-hour front desk and family rooms are available. The hotel doesn’t offer parking. Pets are not allowed, and the property doesn’t accommodate bachelor or bachelorette parties. Breakfast is good and included in many rates. This is a no-frills five-star that prioritizes location and value over luxury amenities.
Choose this if: You need an affordable, no-fuss five-star room in Centro with friendly staff and basic comforts.
18. Yoo2 Rio de Janeiro, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
The Vibe
Yoo2 sits in front of Botafogo Beach with amazing views of Sugarloaf and Corcovado Mountains. Staff hit 9.2, and the rooftop pool and bar are frequently called out as highlights. Guests say it’s their “BEST stay ever” — a strong endorsement from a thousand reviews.
What You Actually Get
Rooms have free WiFi rated 9.0 — strong and reliable. The hotel offers an outdoor pool, fitness center, and beachfront access. Breakfast is excellent and included. Pets are allowed (up to 25 kg, with a daily fee of R$150). The hotel charges a 10% service fee. Location is close to the best south zone beaches via public or private transport. Children 6+ are charged as adults.
Choose this if: You want a stylish, pet-friendly Hilton property with a rooftop scene and views of Rio’s most famous landmarks.
Check Tonight’s Price for Yoo2 Rio de Janeiro, Tapestry Collection by Hilton →
19. Hotel Plage
The Vibe
Hotel Plage sits right on Praia de Guanabara beach, about 7.5 miles from Galeão International Airport. It’s a straightforward beachfront property with free private parking and an on-site restaurant. Rooms are air-conditioned with free WiFi, and the staff score is a respectable 8.0.
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with free WiFi (rated 7.5) and the hotel offers room service, a restaurant, and a 24-hour front desk. Breakfast is available, and the property is family-friendly. Pets are allowed on request with charges. There’s no shuttle service to the airport, but the reception can arrange a taxi. Some rooms include a jacuzzi tub — check your specific booking details.
Choose this if: You want simple, beachfront accommodations away from the Copacabana tourist crowds with free parking included.
20. Promenade Palladium Leblon
The Vibe
Promenade Palladium Leblon has the highest location score in this entire guide — 9.8 out of 10. It sits in Leblon, Rio’s most upscale neighborhood, 400 meters from Leblon Beach. Staff score 9.5, cleanliness 9.2, and comfort 9.3. Guests describe it as “wonderful yet expensive” — you pay for the premium address, and it delivers.
What You Actually Get
Rooms and suites are comfortable with free WiFi (rated 9.0). The hotel has an outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant. Breakfast is very good. Parking is available on site. Families should note that children can only be accommodated in suites, and baby cots must be requested in advance. Children 13+ are charged as adults. The neighborhood is safe for evening walks and packed with excellent restaurants and bars.
Choose this if: Location is everything — you want Leblon’s safety, dining, and beach access at a five-star level.
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#4 Scorial Rio Hotel
A 9.0 rating with 9.5 staff scores, two rooftop pools, and Christ the Redeemer views — no other property in this guide matches the
💰 Best Value
#1 Miramar By Windsor Copacabana
8.9 rating, 9.6 location score, free parking on Copacabana, and a wonderful breakfast — luxury without the Belmond price tag.
🏖️ Best Beach Access
#6 Windsor Leme Hotel
Directly opposite Leme Beach with a 9.5 location score, 9.1 comfort rating, and a rooftop pool that guests rave about.
How We Ranked These Rio de Janeiro Hotels
To find the top five-star properties in Brazil’s most famous city, we evaluated 20 hotels against 46,600+ verified guest reviews, filtering for properties that deliver on the five-star promise without cutting corners on the basics that matter most to travelers.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 8.0+ overall and 1,000+ verified reviews included — ensuring statistical reliability
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness, staff, location, and comfort — the categories that drive repeat bookings in competitive Rio markets
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities (pools, parking, breakfast quality) against guest review patterns to confirm claims
- Location signals: Weighted proximity to Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon, and Barra beaches along with walkability scores from guest feedback
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pets allowed at five-star hotels in Rio de Janeiro?
It varies by property. Several hotels on this list welcome pets — Mirador Rio Copacabana (#3), Grand Hyatt (#10), Hilton Barra (#11), Copacabana Palace (#15), Fairmont (#16), and Yoo2 (#18) all allow pets with charges. Others like Downtown Santana (#2), Scorial (#4), and PortoBay (#8) do not. Always confirm fees directly, as some charge per night and others per stay.
What’s the best time of year to visit Rio for a beach hotel stay?
The peak season runs from December through March (Brazilian summer), when temperatures hit 30°C+ and the city is buzzing — but rates are highest and availability tight. May through September offers milder weather, lower prices, and fewer crowds, though some hotel pools may have maintenance closures during this period. For the best balance of sunny weather and value, consider April or October.
Which hotels offer free parking in Rio de Janeiro?
Free private parking is a notable perk in Rio, where street parking is limited. Miramar By Windsor Copacabana (#1) and Downtown Santana Hotel (#2) both offer free parking. Scorial Rio Hotel (#4) and Parque Hotel (#13) also include free parking. Most beachfront properties on Avenida Atlântica charge for parking or have limited spaces — book early if driving.
Which hotels have the best location scores on this list?
Promenade Palladium Leblon (#20) tops the list with a 9.8 location score in Rio’s most upscale neighborhood. Miramar By Windsor Copacabana (#1) and PortoBay Rio de Janeiro (#8) both score 9.6 for their direct Copacabana beachfront positions. Atlantis Copacabana (#5) and Windsor Leme (#6) each score 9.5, placing you within walking distance of both Copacabana and Ipanema beaches.
What’s the cancellation policy at these Rio five-star hotels?
Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by accommodation type and booking dates at every property on this list. Most hotels offer free cancellation within a specific window (typically 24-72 hours before check-in), but non-refundable rates are common at a lower price. Always review the specific conditions for your chosen room type before confirming. Properties like PortoBay and B&B HOTEL Copacabana Posto 5 display policies based on your exact stay dates.
How do I get from Galeão International Airport (GIG) to these hotels?
Most hotels are about 12 km from GIG airport. Miramar By Windsor (#1), PortoBay (#8), and Grand Hyatt (#10) offer airport shuttle services (fees may apply). Fairmont (#16) and Grand Mercure (#9) also provide shuttle options. Taxis and Uber are widely available — expect fares around R$50-80 to Copacabana or R$60-100 to Barra da Tijuca. Hotel Plage (#19) doesn’t have a shuttle but reception can arrange a taxi.