Elected one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the 30-metre statue of Cristo Redentor stands atop Corcovado mountain at 710 metres above sea level. Built to commemorate 100 years of Brazilian independence, it dominates the Rio skyline and is visible from almost everywhere in the city.
Take the cog railway from Rua Cosme Velho 513 through the Tijuca Forest to the summit. The view from the top -- sweeping across the beaches, the lagoon, Guanabara Bay and the mountains -- is worth the trip alone. Go early on a weekday to avoid the worst crowds.