Find cheap flights to Rio de Janeiro (RIO), Brazil

Set between lush mountains and sea, watched over by the iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro is one of the world’s most instantly recognisable and exciting cities. Famous for beaches such as Ipanema and Copacabana, as well as for exciting nightlife and the world’s most famous carnival, Rio de Janeiro is one of South America’s most alluring cities. You can use Travelzoo’s SuperSearch to find cheap flights to Rio de Janeiro.

British Airways operates non-stop flights to Rio de Janeiro out of London Heathrow. These direct options take less than 12 hours and are often the cheapest flights.

Bmi and TAM Linhas Aereas offer one-stop flights from London Heathrow to Rio de Janeiro via Sao Paulo. Bmi, Air France, TAP Portugal, British Airways and TAM Linhas Aereas are among other airlines offering one- and two-stop services from a number of UK airports.

One of the seven wonders of the natural world, the Harbour of Rio de Janeiro is an impressive spectacle. It is surrounded by mountains which make some of its most popular attractions. Panoramas of the city and bay from the statue of Christ the Redeemer on the Corcovado are superb.

Sugar Loaf mountain is another excellent vantage point for views of the city’s twinkling lights and its famous stretches of sand. A cable car carries visitors to its summit. Rio de Janeiro is a huge city, Brazil’s second largest, and as well as being breathtaking, aerial views of the city from surrounding peaks can prove helpful in getting to grips with its layout.

The city, which has a population of approximately 10 million, consists of a number of districts. The Zona Sul (South Zone) is home to many of Rio's most popular attractions and beaches including Copacabana, Leblon and Ipanema. Sugar Loaf Mountain is also in this district.

The city centre (Centro) is the city's main business district, but is also contains many historical buildings and some fascinating museums. On the hillside, not far from the centre itself is the pleasant Santa Teresa area. Its cobbled streets are home to artists' galleries and offer impressive views of the city.

No visit to Rio would be complete without experiencing the unique and laidback culture of its beaches, which are possibly some of the most famous in the world.