Getting Around Rio de Janeiro

Rio’s public bus system can seem a bit confusing for a newcomer, but if you are not going very far or are familiar with your destination, they are an inexpensive and convenient means of transportation during the day. Exact change isn’t required when boarding, but it’s a good idea to already have the minimum amount of money ready so you don’t have to open up your wallet when you get on. If you see a bus you want to ride, put out your arm to signal the driver and enter the bus through the door near the back of the bus (you exit from the front door). It is generally safer to go toward the front of the bus and sit in an aisle seat. Then, simply get up when you are approaching your destination and signal the driver through the cord/buttons near the aisle. As in any case when traveling through Rio, do not flash your camera around and keep your well-hidden valuables to a minimum.

Some vans will advertise going non-stop to particular destinations for a slightly higher fee. These are not regulated by the city and should be avoided.

The subway system is the safest means of public transportation in Rio. From Ipanema, Gávea, and the southern parts of Copacabana, you can take the Metrô bus to the Siqueira Campos subway station. One-way trips are $R2.25 (Unitário) and can be bought in multiples, but you can only use the ticket every several minutes. The subway runs from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Metro Map
 www.metrorio.com.br

Rio de Janeiro Travel Guides
 Frommer's Rio de Janeiro
 Lonely Planet Rio de Janeiro
 Let's Go Rio de Janeiro
 Fodors Rio de Janeiro