Brazil’s sizzling seaside city of Rio de Janeiro has no shortage of diversions. Get an aerial overview with a trip on one of the world’s oldest operating cable cars, the Sugarloaf Cable Car, which made its first lap up the mountain in 1912. Four station stops along the way allow travelers to disembark to enjoy stunning views. Trams follow the route up Corcovado Mountain, the location of the city’s famous Christ the Redeemer cement and soapstone monument, also reachable by 220 steps or a cog train that wends through the Tijuca Forest National Park. Love nature? The stunning Jardim Botanica gardens, designed by Dom João VI, are a stunning ode to nature with a Victorian water lily pond, birds, wildlife and more than 8,200 species of plants. On the weekends, there’s live music in the garden’s café.

Explore the cobblestoned streets of the famous Santa Teresa neighborhood on a walking tour that includes the Ruins Park and Chácara do Céu Museum and renowned Selarón Staircase. You can also take in a rousing sporting competition with the locals at Maracanã Football Stadium or relax on the beautiful beaches. If you find yourself in Rio over the December holiday season, you can view the city’s floating Christmas tree, mounted on a platform that moves about in the Lagoa lagoon. Don’t miss the beaches: Copacabana, Prainha and Barra da Tijuca beaches are legendary, as is the nightlife. Check out the samba scene with a Platforma show that includes performers in resplendent costumes, live percussion, capoeira, hotel pick-up, drop-off and the option of a buffet dinner.