Two days in Rio is enough to hit the postcard views, wander the city's most colorful streets, and still get sand between your toes. This plan splits the essential landmarks across both days so you're never rushing between them or stuck with an empty afternoon.
Start early at Christ the Redeemer atop Corcovado, inside Tijuca National Park, before the midday clouds and crowds roll in. Come back down into the city center for the afternoon and visit the Museum of Tomorrow on the revamped harborfront, then walk over to the colorful Selarón Steps and the nearby Arcos da Lapa. Finish the day riding the historic tram up into Santa Teresa, where cobblestone lanes, artist studios, and hillside bars make for an easy evening stroll.
Head out early for the cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain, catching the two-stage ride over Guanabara Bay while the morning light is still soft. Back at sea level, stop by Copacabana Fort at the end of the beach for harbor views and a bit of military history, then spend the rest of the day moving along the sand from Copacabana to Ipanema and Leblon, Rio's three signature beaches, for swimming, people-watching, and a sunset drink facing the ocean.