We have just returned from eight days in Sao Paulo and Rio. We spent the last 4 days at the Excelsior Copacabana, and I agree with earlier reviewers, this hotel deserves its reputation. The staff are friendly and helpful and the rooms are comfortable and very modern. The breakfast buffet was also very nice. I travel a lot, and would rate this hotel right up there with the best U.S. hotels and business class hotels found in major cities both inside and outside the U.S.. In fact, for the room rates (we got an escellent price) I cannot say that I have ever gotten a better value for the price. Highly recommended.

My wife and I stayed in the Excelsior based on the this website, and were not disappointed at all!! Our room was a little on the small side but we did not stay in there too much anyway. The hotel is right on Copacabana beach, almost next door to the beautiful Palace Hotel. Like everyone else said, the buffet was outstanding-- any breakfast food you can think of, and if it wasnt out there, they would make it. Over 8 fresh juices to choose from. We spent a lot of time on the pool roof, drinking and watching the sunset. The employees are attentive to your needs, and eager to help in any way. They also have an employee on the beach to help you with chairs and umbrellas if needed (also there for security reasons). The only down side to the week was the constant harrassing of street vendors while we were eating, but that was no biggy. The beach is covered with small soccer fields where my wife and I caught a couple games. If, no when, we go back to Rio, we will stay in the same hotel... this time with a beach view.

What NOT to love about this hotel?? Don't be put off by the 3.5 star rating, it's equivalent 5 stars easily! The staff are brilliant, the buffet breakfast is superb and some lovely touches such as having chocolates delivered each night to your room all added to a wonderful stay. We took a trip to Foz de Igaussu using the hotel's contact, Fatima - she's fantastic, so helpful and great package prices.

I went with my boyfriend...he proposed in the gorgeous Marius Fish restaurant (which is just up the beach at Leme)over lobster and I said....YES!!!!

I took my girlfriend over to Rio and booked the Excelsior on the strength of some great reviews. We weren't disappointed. The hotel is right across from the beach and a minutes walk from main shopping streets. It's also handy for other tourist attractions. The rooms were a good size, the staff were very friendly, the view from the rooftop bar/pool is breathtaking and the sumptious free buffet breakfast is the best I've ever had. And to cap everything we got engaged there. We will be back.