During Carnival in Rio, normal life pretty much stops and the world revolves purely around Carnival for a week. The only thing that operates besides the Sambadrome, bars and restaurants are tourism services. Of course you need to go to the carnival parades at the Sambadrome, dance at the block parties and attend a Carnival Ball (if it's within your budget). But there's more things to do during Carnival in Rio besides samba-related activities. Here are some other activities to fill your time between the parties: 1. Go to the beach You obviously can't go to Rio de Janeiro and not spend time lazing on the beach. Rio's most famous beaches, namely Copacabana and Ipanema, will be packed, and the carnival spirit will certainly spill onto the sand. If you want more peace and quiet, there are plenty of alternative beaches in Rio. 2. Christ the Redeemer No trip to Rio is complete without visiting this famous statue on top of Corcovado Mountain. Pick a sunny day and head up the hill. You can take a tour to Christ the Redeemer, or go by yourself, taking the Cosme Velho train, the bus or by hiking to the top. 3. Watch the Sunset from Arpoador Rock Wedged on a little peninsula between Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, is the Arpoador Rock. This is a popular spot to watch the sunset, and for a good reason! It's great views over the beach and city skyline make it the perfect spot to mark the end of the day - before heading to a samba school parade or a delicious dinner. 4. Take a day trip outside Rio After all the carnival action and continuous partying, you'll need a full day tropical escape. Take a tour outside Rio to the popular beach resort of Buzios or Angra dos Reis, the starting point to the gorgeous island of Ilha Grande. There's nothing like a day spent on paradisiacal beaches and in azure waters to recharge your batteries before jumping right back in to the Carnival action. [caption id="attachment_7117" align="alignnone" width="640"]Ilha Grande | Things to do during Carnival Spend a day relaxing on the tropical beaches and islands near Rio. / source[/caption]5. Sugar Loaf Mountain Rio's other prime spot for panoramic views is Sugar Loaf Mountain. There is a two-stage cable car that takes you to the top. If you're feeling adventurous there are hiking and rock climbing routes to ascend the hill. Alternatively, combine a visit to Sugar Loaf with a city tour to maximise your day's sightseeing. 6. Sample Brazilian Cuisine Now's the time to eat your way through the best local food as you refuel to party again. From 'por kilo' restaurants, steakhouses, to feijoada, street tapiocas, and boteco food, there'll be plenty to satisfy your appetite. 7. Caipirinhas and Coconut Water It's not just Brazilian food that you need to taste, but the local beverages as well. The most iconic drink in Rio is the caipirinha, and you'll feel suitably tropical when drinking it. And let's not forget the real Brazilian favourite: beer. But when you need to hydrate, grab a coconut water on the beach, or make a beeline for one of the many fruit juice stands throughout the city. 8. Lapa and the Escadaria Selarón The neighbourhood of Lapa - famous for its street parties under the Lapa Arches - is home to the Selarón steps. These colourful steps decorated with thousands of tiles were the work of the Chilean artist, Jorge Selarón. Take a picture on the steps and then head to the charming hillside neighbourhood of Santa Teresa, with its winding colonial streets and art galleries. At night, go back to Lapa for its famous bar scene. [caption id="attachment_2368" align="aligncenter" width="610"]Parque Lage | Things To Do During Carnival Parque Lage offers a quiet escape from the crazy party atmosphere. / Source[/caption] 9. A Peaceful Moment in Parque Lage At the base of Tijuca Forest, and a short walk from the Botanical Garden is Parque Lage, a large public park with a gorgeous mansion. Featured in a number of high profile music videos, this park is the perfect place to retreat to for a quiet moment in amongst the carnival madness. 10. Walk in Tijuca Forest Need to burn off some calories from the beer, caipirinhas and delicious Brazilian food? Go for a leisurely hike in Tijuca Forest. This enormous urban forest provides welcome relief from the hot summer sun, has plenty of interesting wildlife, and rewards you with beautiful views of the city from various lookout points. But remember as well to make the most of your time in Rio by visiting as many Carnival events as you can. The incredible atmosphere of Carnival in Rio de Janeiro is mesmerising and the party is just about everywhere. Prepare yourself for a week like no other! Book your Samba School Tickets for Rio Carnival 2015 with Rdj4u. Secure them online now before they sell out!