Ipanema or Santa teresa?
 

Hi My husband and I will be in Rio for three nights, at the end of our journey. We are in our mid- fifties. We would like to see all of the sites, not so much sit on the beach. I see many nice comments for Santa Teresa..and of course Ipanema. they are so different. Trying to decide which one to stay at. We love the idea always of walking outside and finding restaurants cafes etc. within walking distance ,which could be 25 minutes or so. But happy to cab it as well. Any thoughts????

Is it your first visit to Rio? We spent 4 nights there last year (our first) and I also considered Santa Teresa but in the end we stayed in Arpoador which is a little sliver between Ipanema and Copacabana. Very happy with that choice as there was lots to do in those neighbourhoods - all very easy walking. Like you we aren't beach people but we did enjoy walking along the water.

We visited Santa Teresa and I was glad we hadn't stayed there - a little too far away from the main sites. At that time the tram wasn't operating which made it less accessible. I'm not sure if it is yet.

Have a great time - we loved Rio.

My husband and I spent a week there in August and stayed by the beach (Copacabana). I agree with Elizabeth_S - Santa Teresa is quaint and worth a look, but it is out of the way and not very convenient.

It depends on your taste, I've always avoided the beach area (Zona Sul) but it is easier to get around from there.

I love Santa Teresa, but friends live nearby so it suits me for that reason. I don't think the tram is working again which makes it easier to get into the centre. You can walk down the hill to Gloria metro station which will get you to the centre and out to the beach areas, and then it's quite cheap to get a cab back up if you can't face the walk.

Agree that Ipanema is the better location. When you visit Santa Teresa consider a meal at Aprazivel. Great food and setting. http://www.aprazivel.com.br