After the 2014 World Cup, tourists returned to their countries with good impressions of Brazil's ability to host sporting events. So with the arrival of the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2016, a large increase in the number of visitors to Rio de Janeiro is expected. One of the central stadiums for the FIFA World Cup will also be an important location for the Rio Olympics. Here's what you can do and see at the famous Maracanã Stadium and in its surrounding neighbourhood of Maracanã during the Olympics in 2016. [caption id="attachment_6057" align="aligncenter" width="640"]A view of the crowd and seating in the Maracana Stadium | Maracana during the olympics The Maracanã Stadium will host the opening and closing ceremonies of the Olympics / Source[/caption]

Maracanã neighbourhood

Located in the Zona Norte, not far from the downtown area, the Maracanã neighbourhood is home to three important places for the Olympic Games: the Maracanã Stadium, the Olympic Stadium and the Sambadrome.
  • Maracanã: The iconic football stadium will host the opening and closing ceremonies of the Olympic Games as well as some football matches. Within the Maracanã Complex is the Julio Delamare Aquatic Centre, where water polo will be held, and the Maracanãzinho, which is the location for volleyball.
  • Olympic Stadium: With a capacity of 60,000 seats, the João Havelange Olympic Stadium will be made more accessible, as it is hosting both Olympic and Paralympic Athletics in 2016.
  • Sambadrome: The traditional stage of Rio's Carnival will become the start and finish point of the Olympic marathon as well as the archery tournament in 2016.

Attractions near Maracanã

Cinelândia The name of this area was adopted in the 30s when it was full of the most important cinemas and theatres in the city. While this is no longer the case, the name was persisted, and the square retains charm from its stately buildings and mix of architectural styles. The Municipal Theatre, National Museum of Fine Arts, Federal Justice Cultural Centre and the National Library are some of the buildings that adorn this large plaza at the end of Avenida Rio Branco. It is the perfect place to travel back in time and learn about the history of Rio de Janeiro. [caption id="attachment_6058" align="aligncenter" width="640"]The Municipal Theatre is one of the architectural gems in Cinelândia / Credit: Daytours4u The Municipal Theatre is one of the architectural gems in Cinelândia / Credit: Daytours4u[/caption] Feira de São Cristóvão Find a bit of Northeastern Brazil in Rio de Janeiro. For those not familiar with this rich region of Brazil, the São Cristóvão Fair is a good place to visit. This huge market has approximately 700 stalls selling typical food and handicrafts from this region of Brazil, plus a non-stop schedule of forró bands, folk dances, singers, popular poets, comedy and literature readings. Admission is free on weekdays and there is a small fee of BRL 3 on weekends. Lapa The bohemian side of Rio can be found in Lapa. This is the nightlife hub of Rio and attracts hundreds of visitors from around the world who flock to the streets full of bars, nightclubs and restaurants of every style. The setting is perfect to enjoy with a caipirinha. This region is also known for its historic architecture and one of the most famous postcard pictures from the city: the Arcos da Lapa (Lapa Arches). Another must-see in Lapa is the Escadaria Selarón (Selarón Steps), meticulously decorated with tiles from all over the world by Chilean artist Jorge Selarón. [caption id="attachment_6059" align="aligncenter" width="640"]Looking up the tiled Selaron Steps The Selarón Steps are an obligatory stop for any tourist in Rio / Source[/caption] Sambadrome Carnival is synonymous with Rio de Janeiro, as is the Sambadrome, where the incredible samba school parades are held. The stadium built by renowned Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer can be found in the Maracanã neighbourhood. The stadium comes to life with the start of the first Carnival rehearsals until it fills with capacity during the main events. Outside of Carnival season, visitors can still see the stadium and enjoy the Samba Museum, where they can try on Carnival costumes.

See Cinelândia and Lapa up close by taking a walking tour of Historical Downtown Rio.

By: Luiza Cavalcante | Adapted by: Nicole Eberhard