Where
Copacabana Palace, a Belmond Hotel in Rio de Janeiro.
The Lowdown
Facing the pristine Copacabana Beach, the Copacabana Palace remains in the highest echelons of luxurious hospitality. Recognized as a true icon of the ‘Marvelous City’ the property presents itself as an ideal abode for those hoping to explore the vibrant culture of Rio de Janeiro. Even the most discerning of travelers are sure to be left satisfied after a stay here. One simply has to look towards the long list of famous faces that have stayed here in the past to understand this – such as Mick Jagger, Tom Cruise, Ella Fitzgerald, Bob Marley, Gisele Bündchen, Viola Davis, Dua Lipa and more. Built in 1923 upon the suggestion of then president Epitácio Pessoa, the hotel was designed by the renowned French architect Joseph Gire and is considered an architectural marvel.
Stylish Eats
With award-winning gastronomy, the Copacabana Palace ensures that every palette is well taken care of. At Cipriani, renowned chef Aniello Cassesse offers the best of contemporary Italian cuisine. His expertise and culinary offerings have not only earned the restaurant a Michelin star but also led to a spot in the prestigious list of the 50 Best Discovery in 2021. The property offers another Michelin-starred venue with MEE, Rio’s first pan-Asian restaurant. A highlight of the space is the traditional Omakase experience at the Sushi bar, a specialty of chef Alberto Morisawa. Over at Pérgula, Chef João Melo serves an à la carte menu of Mediterranean cuisine with a touch of Rio, prioritizing Brazilian ingredients from local producers.
Suite Talk
Across the 220 rooms at Copacabana Palace, classic decor merges with contemporary elements to provide the best of both. Divided between the main building and the annex, built in 1948, a number of different accommodations await guests at the hotel. In the main building, the ocean and city view rooms ensure every comfort while options such as the master suites, penthouses, and the Copacabana Suites provide ample residences with expansive balconies and access to the famous ‘black pool.’ In the annex building, the most luxurious options await such as the Pool View Suite and the Avenue View City Suite.
Insider’s Tip
With the property marking its centenary in 2023 there is much to celebrate at the Copacabana Palace. A newly renovated Hall of Fame pays homage to its celebrity-filled past with a permanent exhibition commemorating these moments while the Copacabana Palace Theater presents a special program of lectures, performances, and shows. In February 2024, its traditional carnival ball, the acclaimed ‘Baile do Copa,’ returns to celebrate the extravagance of European avant-garde artistic movements. “We believe that this year’s theme honors the moment we live in Copa, a hotel always ahead of its time, a place of dreams and grand celebrations. An extravagant palace by the sea!” comments the hotel’s general manager, Ulisses Marreiros.
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