Rio de Janeiro Getting Around

Getting Around Rio - Discover the city by bus
Rio de Janeiro is a bustling, brash metropolis with plenty of atmosphere and a host of fabulous attractions itching to be explored. Thankfully it has a fairly efficient transport network which covers a wide area and takes in the majority of its most popular sights. Buses are the most convenient option for getting around Rio de Janeiro with a comprehensive network of over 400 routes. Fares are very cheap however buses do get overcrowded. Notwithstanding this it is perhaps the best way to quickly soak up a little of Rio's vibrant and eccentric local atmosphere.

Getting Around Rio de Janeiro - An efficient subway system 
The Rio subway is a quicker alternative for exploring city centre sights and shopping. There are just 2 main lines but these criss cross the city and are convenient for attractions such as Sugarloaf Mountain and the History Museum. Rio has a charming tram service which during the weekends extends from Santa Teresa to the scenic Tijuca Forest. This is one of the most leisurely ways of getting around Rio de Janeiro and a great excuse for families to escape the city heat for tranquil hiking or horse riding. Taxi cabs are plentiful in Rio and can be hailed virtually everywhere. There is always a profusion of metered and private cabs waiting at the beachfront and is the safest option for travel after dark.

Getting Around Rio - A fabulous variety of organised tours
Make the most of limited time during a Rio de Janeiro city break and explore this teeming city as part of a series of rewarding organised tours. You can do it yourself with a hop on hop off style bus tour covering several interesting attractions such as the chic Lapla district, the harbour and Candelaria Church. There are also leisurely cruises around Guanbara Bay and the historic island of Niteroi or even an exhilarating helicopter ride over Sugarloaf Mountain. Contrary to popular belief getting around Rio de Janeiro on foot is relatively safe and trouble free along the seafront and central shopping districts although the heat can be fierce. No city break in Rio would be complete without soaking up vibrant beach life at Copacabana and iconic Ipanema.