Best time to visit Rio de Janeiro

Football at Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro

If football is a religion for Brazilians and Pele is a god, then Maracanã is a temple

Best time: May–December

Football at Maracanã Stadium
Football at Maracanã Stadium
Football at Maracanã Stadium
Football at Maracanã Stadium

Brazilians are more passionate about football than any other nation. Almost everybody knows how to play football in Brazil, regardless of sex. Some are really skillful. So it's not surprising that Brazil has produced dozens of football legends. Football is played everywhere here—on the streets, beaches, parks, and lanes. But there is a special place for this game in Rio—the Maracanã Stadium. It was built to host the 1950 FIFA World Cup and at that time it was the biggest stadium in the world with a capacity of almost 200,000 people. After that it hosted the FIFA World Cup again in 2014, then it was rebuilt and has been used for domestic cups and matches for four major clubs—Flamengo, Fluminense, Botafogo, and​ Vasco da Gama. The national competitions—Copa do Brasil and Campeonato Brasiliense—usually take place from May to December, so if you are planning to see some of the so-called samba style Brazilian football, it is the perfect time for you to visit Rio.

Practical info

When is the best time to visit Maracanã Stadium to watch football matches?

Football enthusiasts are advised to attend national competitions at the Maracanã Stadium from May to December, as these months offer cool and less humid weather for comfortable viewing. It's advisable to avoid major events or holidays, as tickets and accommodation prices may be inflated. Show more

Where is Maracanã Stadium located in Rio de Janeiro?

Located in the north of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Maracanã Stadium is situated in the Maracanã neighborhood. Several transportation options are available, including the Metro Line 2, buses, and trains. Tourists can conveniently use the Stadium's location to explore other famous attractions such as the Sugar Loaf Mountain and the Christ the Redeemer statue. Show more

What is the seating capacity of Maracanã Stadium after its reconstruction?

Following a massive reconstruction for the 2014 FIFA World Cup, Maracanã Stadium's capacity was reduced to an approximate 78,000 seats, while still remaining one of the world's largest stadiums. The Stadium underwent modernization, which included the addition of VIP boxes, restaurants, and enhanced support facilities to improve its visitors' overall experience. Show more

Which major clubs in Rio de Janeiro use Maracanã Stadium for their home matches?

Flamengo, Fluminense, Botafogo, and Vasco da Gama are four major clubs in Rio de Janeiro that use the Maracanã Stadium as their home arena. These clubs boast a long-standing history and a large fan base in Brazil. Visitors can choose to attend the matches of these clubs to enjoy a unique Brazilian football experience. Show more

Why is football so popular in Brazil and what makes the Brazilian football style unique?

Football is not just a sport but also a deeply ingrained passion in Brazilian culture, attracting both locals and international players. The Brazilian football style is known for its skill, creativity, flexibility, and high-scoring rates. Players' samba and freestyle elements are also evident by the way their moves on the field incorporate body movement and dance. Show more

Ask a question

Find hotels and airbnbs near Football at Maracanã Stadium (Map)

Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin