Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas (Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon)
This lake is a huge open space in the middle of the city, offering fantastic views of the Ipanema skyline, Corcovado and the Christ the Redeemer statue. At the weekend, visitors can join the city's residents for a stroll or cycle on the 8km (5-mile) path that surrounds it or enjoy the nearby parks, exercise stations and leisure facilities. Visitors can join families on the lake and hire one of the swan-shaped pedaloes. Nearby is the Jardim Botânico, a landscaped garden containing over 8,000 Brazilian and imported species of flora. In the evening, the lakeside remains lively, as people dine at one of the many kiosks, each serving regional and international food. Some also provide live music for entertainment.

Jardim Botânico (Botanical Gardens)
Rua Jardim Botânico
Tel: (21) 3874 1808.
Website: www.jbrj.gov.br
Opening hours: Daily 0800-1700.
Admission charge.

Museu Internacional do Arte Naif (International Naive Art Museum)
The Museu Internacional do Arte Naif contains one of the most comprehensive collections of naive art (folk art) in the world. The simplistic, colourful exhibits line the walls of a historic mansion, situated next door to Corcovado Railroad Station. The museum displays a selection of its collection of over 8,000 works of folk art, which were created between the 14th century and the present day by artists from Brazil and 130 other countries. Works include a huge painting depicting Rio de Janeiro and Guanabara Bay, as well as a mural (the largest naive artwork in the world) that tells the history of Brazil. The museum also displays temporary exhibits by renowned naive artists throughout the year.

Rua Cosme Velho 561, Cosme Velho
Tel: (21) 2205 8612.
Website: www.museunaif.com.br
Admission charge.