The Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro is one that is famous for hosting the Carnaval, which is widely acknowledged as one of the biggest parties in the world, but you don't have to be there during the festivities to have an amazing time. There are a range of venues where you can let your hair down and party, from salsa clubs in Lapa through to trendy dance clubs, cool bars and live music venues. Here is a rundown of six of the best and most interesting places to visit if you are looking for a great night out and some good music in this vibrant city.

Baronetti

Near the beach at Ipanema, this is one of the most exclusive clubs in Rio and is one that really does draw the crowds, with women usually finding the prices much more palatable than men. The music in the club area downstairs is played by local DJs, who play a mix of American house tunes to keep everybody dancing and those beautiful Brazilian girls having a good time. Upstairs, there are some tasty bites at the sushi bar, while the cocktail bar is staffed by some very good mixologists who can prepare a great cocktail for you.

Zero Zero

This club is one which does expect a certain standard of dress from its clientele, so this is certainly not the place to go if you're rocking board shorts and a vest. Located within the city's lovely planetarium, the dancefloor sees a range of dance music styles being played, while there is a formal dining room for those looking for a meal before they shake their moves, and also a sushi bar for those looking for some finger food. The music is quite mainstream, but keeps the sophisticated and the upper middle class crowd moving until the early hours.

Casa da Matriz

One of the most interesting aspects of this club is that it is actually converted from an eighteenth century mansion, and with two stories it is a very interesting place to explore and enjoy. The range of cocktails on offer here is very good, and the house party atmosphere makes it easy to relax and to enjoy the music. Fridays is the evening if you want to share the local Brazilian dance music with the crowd of Rio natives, while Saturday has a rock music theme.

Nuth Lounge

This club is split into several different spaces with a variety of different DJs that are bound to be playing some dance music that will fit your mood. Some rooms also include hip hop and R&B, so if that is your thing then you will also be catered for. Widely known as the place where some of Rio's best and most beautiful go to let their hair down, this stylish club has a similarly stylish dress code, so it is definitely worth making an effort if you want to get in.

Fosfobox

If you're looking for a club that won't take you too far from the beach, then Fosfobox faces on to the Copacabana, and has a varied musical palette that will keep you moving. From electronica to good old rock and roll, there are several rooms available, and those looking to relax and take a few minutes out will find the stunning upstairs cocktail bar a great place to chill.

Studio RJ

Located at the point where the two most popular beaches in Rio meet, this is one of the more relaxed venues in the city, offering several rooms with a variety of music, from local bands and DJs through to rock, jazz and indie, along with some musical rarities. Depending on the time of the week you'll find live bands or guest DJs in this laid back club that is the perfect place to enjoy a great night.