Top Romantic Stays in Rio de Janeiro

Casa Geranio is an adults-only bed and breakfast, so I would not suggest it to families travelling with children; it is a better fit for couples or friends. The garden has fruit trees and local birds, the outdoor pool looks over the city, and breakfast is included. Rooms are air-conditioned with a minibar and are reached by stairs. The Lapa Arches are about 500 metres away. Guests rate it 9.6 out of 10 across more than 360 reviews.

A kids' pool next to the year-round outdoor pool and family rooms are why I would book Flat Barra Residence for a family in Rio de Janeiro. The kitchenette covers breakfasts and snacks, while the on-site restaurant and bar make dinners easy after a day out. The garden gives children space, and parents can use the sauna or fitness centre in turns. Balconies have sea views, so keep a close eye on young children there.

Vila Santa Teresa is adults-only, so it is not a hotel for a family holiday with children, and I would steer parents elsewhere in Rio de Janeiro. It does suit adult family members travelling together, such as parents celebrating with grown-up children. Rooms look over the sea, the garden or the pool, the spa, sauna and steam room invite a slow afternoon, yoga classes are offered, and the restaurant serves brunch, lunch and dinner with vegetarian options.

Villa Paranaguá Hotel & Spa is a five-star boutique hotel in Rio de Janeiro, small in scale and calm in mood, which suits families who prefer a quieter base to a large resort. Rooms are elegant and air-conditioned, each with a private balcony. Children will head straight for the infinity pool and the garden, while parents can use the spa with its sauna and steam room or the fitness room. A 9.5 score from 320 reviews is outstanding.

Cinque Terre Pousada & Bistrô is the kind of small Rio base I would suggest to families who want calm evenings. Rooms are air-conditioned with private bathrooms, and some look out over the garden or the mountains. The breakfast buffet with local specialities sets up the day, the Italian restaurant covers lunch and dinner, and there is a coffee shop too. Parents can use the sauna, hot tub, steam room and open-air bath, and free private parking helps if you are driving.