The second-largest city in Brazil, Rio de Janeiro is the most famous destination in all of South America. Almost three million international tourists arrive every year. During the day, you can climb the Corcovado mountain peak to stand at the foot of Christ the Redeemer, the 130-foot-tall statue that has come to be associated with both the city and country. Or, if you’d rather spend some time on the sands, opt for the gorgeous Copacabana or Leme beaches before dancing the night away in the nearby nightclubs or heading into downtown for a performance at Theatro Municipal.