One of Rio's little gems that gets all-to-often overlooked with the likes of Jardim Botânico next door, Parque Lage is really the scruffy cousin of its magnificent neighbour. The gardens here are considerably less groomed giving the feeling of a genuine slice of rainforest, within which sits the magnificent former abode of wealthy ship owner Henrique Lage. The house has long been converted into a popular arts school, with easels scattered and paint carlessly flicked over the pillars that mark out the beautiful central pool which also houses a pleasant café. Elsewhere in the gardens lie an aquarium and the start of the trek up to Cristo Redentor for the adventurous.