Is my Brazil travel plan on point for August 2027?

Hey there, so I’m super excited about my upcoming trip to Brazil in August 2027, and I’m reaching out to all you seasoned travelers for some tips and tricks. Here’s my rough plan: I’ll be flying into Rio de Janeiro, where I’m thinking of keeping it simple with a 4-night stay at a budget-friendly spot like an Ibis hotel. Then, I’m planning to hop over to the beautiful Ilha Grande for 3 nights before heading back to Rio for my final night to avoid any last-minute travel stresses. My budget is around €2,400–2,500, covering everything from flights and accommodation to food, transportation, activities, and a little extra for souvenirs.

Now, here are a few things I’d love your input on: Does this itinerary sound good for a first-timer in Brazil? Would you recommend more or fewer nights in Rio or Ilha Grande? Any suggestions on which neighborhood in Rio would be best for a newbie like me? And what’s the smoothest way to get from Rio to Ilha Grande?

I’m also on the lookout for any tourist traps or common mistakes I should steer clear of. And lastly, are there any must-visit beaches, restaurants, or activities that you think I absolutely can’t miss out on? I’m all ears for your advice and recommendations, so hit me up with your insider tips. Thanks a bunch in advance!