About Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel
Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel, is the white landmark hotel on Avenida Atlântica, facing the middle of Copacabana Beach. It opened in 1923 and has rooms in the main building and a wide range of suites, up to multi-bedroom penthouses.
What sets it apart is its history and its food: it is the most famous hotel in Rio, and it has two restaurants with a Michelin star, MEE and Ristorante Hotel Cipriani. It suits couples, food lovers and travelers who want a classic grand hotel on the beach.
At a glance
Highlights
- On Copacabana Beach since 1923
- Two Michelin-starred restaurants
- Iconic semi-Olympic pool
- Private Black Pool for penthouse guests
- Close to Santos Dumont Airport
Amenities
Rooms and suites
- Superior and Deluxe rooms with city or ocean views
- Ocean View, Deluxe Oceanfront and Pool Suites
- Two-bedroom suites for families
- Penthouse suites with access to the private Black Pool on the sixth floor
- Babysitting available for a fee
Restaurants and bars
The hotel is not all-inclusive. Breakfast is served at Pérgula, by the pool.
- Pérgula: Mediterranean dishes and open-fire cooking, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner
- MEE: pan-Asian cuisine with one Michelin star, dinner Tuesday to Sunday
- Ristorante Hotel Cipriani: Italian cuisine with one Michelin star, dinner Monday to Saturday
- Pool Bar: drinks and snacks by the pool, seasonal and open Friday to Sunday
Beach, pools and spa
The semi-Olympic outdoor pool is one of the best-known pools in Rio, with a lifeguard on duty. Guests in the sixth-floor penthouse suites also use the private Black Pool. Copacabana Beach is just across Avenida Atlântica. The spa has a dry sauna, a steam room and a double massage suite.
Activities and entertainment
There is an outdoor tennis court with equipment provided, a fitness center next to the spa, and bikes to rent. The kids club is seasonal, so check dates before you travel if it matters to you. The hotel is a good base for the New Year’s Eve fireworks on Copacabana Beach.
Who it’s best for
- Best for: couples, food lovers and travelers who want a famous, classic hotel right on Copacabana Beach.
- Consider another resort if: you prefer a quieter beach and a younger crowd in Ipanema, or a smaller, modern design hotel.
Getting there from Rio de Janeiro–Galeão International Airport
Rio de Janeiro–Galeão International Airport (GIG) is about 28 km away, a 35- to 60-minute drive depending on traffic. Santos Dumont Airport (SDU), used mostly for domestic flights, is about 10 to 20 minutes away.
The hotel can arrange a car for a fee. Book a private transfer in advance so a driver meets you at arrivals and takes you straight to the hotel.
Good to know
- A daily resort fee applies
- Parking is valet only and charged
- Small dogs and cats are allowed for a fee
- Parents traveling with children under 18 must show the child’s birth certificate and ID
Location of Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel
FAQ about Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel
Is Copacabana Palace on the beach?
Yes. It faces Copacabana Beach, across Avenida Atlântica.
When did Copacabana Palace open?
In 1923.
Is Copacabana Palace all-inclusive?
No. Meals are paid separately.
Does the hotel have Michelin-starred restaurants?
Yes. MEE and Ristorante Hotel Cipriani each have one Michelin star.
Does Copacabana Palace have a pool?
Yes, a semi-Olympic outdoor pool, plus the private Black Pool for penthouse guests.
Is there a kids club?
Yes, but it is seasonal.
How far is Galeão airport?
About 28 km, or 35 to 60 minutes by car depending on traffic.
How far is Santos Dumont Airport?
About 10 to 20 minutes by car.
Is parking available?
Yes, valet parking for a fee.
Are pets allowed?
Small dogs and cats are allowed for a fee.


