Rio de Janeiro Transport

For those that are new to the city, Rio may seem like a very large and confusing place, but the tourist neighbourhoods are in fact very easy to get around. The public transport options allow visitors the chance to visit sights throughout the districts. There is no cohesive public transport system in Rio; however, Metros services are very efficient and the buses, though confusing at first, can be very convenient. If you prefer walking to public transport, you must be very careful. Drivers will stop for nothing and often run red lights. Some are even known to drive on the pavements.

·         By Metro

The Metro is Rio’s safest and cleanest form of public transport. Two lines serve the city seven days a week. The first line runs from Siqueira Campos in Copacabana to Sãens Pena in Tijuca. The second line runs from Estácio in the centre of the city to Pavuna in northern Rio.You can only buy tickets for the Metro at train stations and you can either buy single tickets or a book of ten. When you are arrive at your destination, keep hold of your belongings as pickpockets do operate at busy Metro stations. An integrated Metro and bus ticket for a single journey is available and is known as a Metro/Onibus. 

·        By Train

Travelling by train throughout Brazil and especially in Rio is not a practical option. Services are extremely limited as there is no national rail company. Passenger services are rare as most trains only hold cargo. If you do catch a train, you will often find that it is slower than the bus. Currently, the overnight train to São Paulo has been stopped, with no replacement service in place.

·        By Bus

Buses are the cheapest mode of transport in Rio. Most display their destination on the front windscreen and run throughout the city. You will find air-conditioned buses, which are a lot more comfortable than standard buses; however, these are more expensive. Services operate 24 hours and are relatively safe although you must always be on your guard, especially at night. Always hold onto something as drivers are renowned for driving at high-speeds and ‘leaning’ into their turns. Buses only stop if someone wants to board, so always let the driver know when you want to get on or off. You pay as soon as you get on the bus, so have your money ready. Each ride has to be paid for individually; there are no multiple tickets available.

·        Tourist Services

The safest way to see the sights of Rio is by tourist bus. One, two or three day passes are available. The buses have a set route between Barra de Tijuca and downtown Rio. Passengers are able to get on and off at any point.

→ From the Airport

Buses and taxis are the most convenient ways to travel from the airport into central Rio. Taxis are available from outside the airport, but you need to buy prepaid vouchers before getting into one. The best place to buy these vouchers is at the State Information Desk. There is an airport shuttle bus that leaves every hour and stops at major hotels and beaches, with a journey time of approximately 45 minutes. Public buses also run to the city center, but they can be very confusing if you don’t know the city and have never ridden on a local bus.

No matter what kind of transport you use, if you intend to stay in Rio de Janeiro for more than one day you have to choose a place for accommodation. The best alternative is to stay in a hotel in Rio de Janeiro. There is a wide range of hotels in Rio de Janeiro and usually they are full of foreigners during the high season. Considering that I recommend you to make an online reservation for the chose hotel in Rio de Janeiro so that your stay will be guaranteed. So the decision is up to you but for sure you will have an unforgettable experience in Rio de Janeiro.