OK got it.
Pick a hotel where esmjb mentioned (Zona Sul) and take the metro back and forth to centro. Do not hang out downtown at night.
The metro is cheap, clean, safe, and convenient. My wife and I own a condo beside a metro station in Copacabana. You will want to be able to walk to and from your multiple evening activities. Any of the 3 areas he mentioned will work. They all have beaches, bars, restaurants, clubs, etc.......
Leblon $$$$$
Ipanema $$$$
Copa $$ - $$$$
Last edited by KDS777; Jun 23, 2018 at 8:20 am