the best view for nearly nothing.

If you are looking for killer views of Rio, I recommend taking the Metro Bus from Ipanema to Barra and back. The ride sweeps past Leblon and has got a breathtaking view of Zona Sul, Sao Conrado, and Barra. The best part? It costs just under 3 reais, and it's really the perfect view riding back around dusk. I've done it a few times, and the view never gets old.

You can catch the bus to Barra at General Osorio, right next to the Metro Station.