To get around in Rio de Janeiro State, you can use a variety of transportation options including buses, trains, taxis, and ride-hailing apps, as well as renting a car or taking domestic flights to explore the state's many attractions.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Rio de Janeiro State is easily accessible by air, with two major international airports, Rio de Janeiro/Galeão International Airport (GIG) and Santos Dumont Airport (SDU), receiving flights from all over the world. Direct flights are available from major hubs such as Miami, New York, and Madrid, as well as from other cities in South America. Overland entry points are also available, with several major highways connecting Rio de Janeiro State to neighboring states and countries. The state's main bus terminal, Novo Rio Bus Station, is a major hub for intercity bus travel, with connections to cities all over Brazil.
For those traveling by land, the state's main border crossings are with the neighboring states of Minas Gerais, São Paulo, and Espírito Santo. The BR-116 highway connects Rio de Janeiro State to the rest of Brazil, while the Rio-Santos highway runs along the coast and provides access to the state's many beaches and coastal towns. Alternatively, visitors can take a bus or drive from neighboring countries, such as Argentina or Uruguay, although this option may take longer and require more planning.
Domestic Flights
Rio de Janeiro State has an extensive domestic air network, with flights connecting the state's main airports to cities all over Brazil. Domestic airlines such as Gol, Azul, and LATAM operate frequent flights from Rio de Janeiro/Galeão International Airport and Santos Dumont Airport to destinations such as São Paulo, Brasília, and Belo Horizonte. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, and prices can vary depending on the route and time of year. Approximate costs for domestic flights range from $50 to $200 USD, depending on the route and airline.
Trains & Rail
The rail network in Rio de Janeiro State is limited, with only a few commuter rail lines connecting the city of Rio de Janeiro to neighboring suburbs and cities. The SuperVia commuter rail system operates several lines, including the Santa Cruz line and the Belford Roxo line, but these trains are mainly used for local transportation and not for long-distance travel. There are no high-speed rail options available in the state, and booking is typically done at the train station or through the SuperVia website.
Buses & Coaches
Intercity bus travel is a popular option in Rio de Janeiro State, with several companies operating routes to cities all over Brazil. Companies such as Greyhound Brasil, Util, and Ormeño operate modern buses with comfortable seating and amenities such as air conditioning and Wi-Fi. Prices vary depending on the route and company, but approximate costs range from $20 to $100 USD for a one-way ticket. The main bus terminal, Novo Rio Bus Station, is a major hub for intercity bus travel, with connections to cities all over Brazil.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro/Subway | Rio de Janeiro, Niterói | $1.20 | 2 lines, 41 stations |
| City Bus | Rio de Janeiro, Niterói, other cities | $1.20 | extensive network, some buses operate 24/7 |
| Taxi | everywhere | $2.50/km | metered taxis, some drivers may not speak English |
| Ride-Hailing | Rio de Janeiro, Niterói, other cities | $5-10 | Uber, 99, Cabify available |
| Tuk-tuk/Rickshaw | some coastal towns | $5 | not a common mode of transport in Rio de Janeiro State |
Driving
- To drive in Rio de Janeiro State, visitors will need to have a valid driver's license from their home country, as well as car insurance that covers them in Brazil.
- Road conditions in the state vary, with some highways and main roads well-maintained, while others may be in poor condition, especially in rural areas.
- Fuel costs in Brazil are relatively high, with prices ranging from $1.50 to $2.50 USD per liter, depending on the type of fuel and location.
- Car rental companies such as Avis, Hertz, and Localiza have offices at the main airports and in major cities, and offer a range of vehicles for rent.
- Visitors should be aware of the potential for traffic congestion in Rio de Janeiro, especially during rush hour, and plan their route accordingly.
- Parking in the city can be challenging, especially in popular areas such as Copacabana and Ipanema, and visitors may need to use a parking garage or lot.
Transport Tips
- Be aware of scams targeting tourists, such as overcharging for taxi rides or fake ticket sellers, and always use reputable companies and services.
- Cash is widely accepted in Rio de Janeiro State, but credit and debit cards are also accepted at most restaurants, shops, and hotels.
- Download ride-hailing apps such as Uber or 99 to get around the city, as they are widely available and often cheaper than taxis.
- Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around the city, but be prepared for crowded conditions and limited English spoken by drivers.
- Traffic in Rio de Janeiro can be heavy, especially during rush hour, so plan your route and leave plenty of time to get to your destination.
- Consider purchasing a RioCard, a prepaid card that can be used to pay for public transportation, including buses and the metro.
- Be mindful of your personal belongings, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots, and take necessary precautions to stay safe.
- Learn some basic Portuguese phrases, such as "obrigado" (thank you) and "desculpe" (excuse me), to help you navigate and communicate with locals.