Jardim Botânico

Of all of Rio's green city parks, this is perhaps the best and most elegant. Created by Dom Jo VI to cultivate the spices Portugal used to import from the East Indies, it is now a favorite relaxation spot. The charming mix of gardens, sculptures, ponds, fountains, tropical forest and "imperial palm boulevards" includes more than 6,000 international plant species spread over 338 acres. Every season, nature provides a show that shouldn't be missed. There is a museum, a gift shop and a public library. Admission: BRR4. Cash only