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Getting around Rio de Janeiro

Public transport: 

The underground service provided by Metrô Rio (tel: (21) 3982 3600; www.metrorio.com.br) is efficient although limited in the area it covers. Metrô tickets are only available at the stations - for a single journey or a carnet of 10 tickets.

Buses are cheap, regular and run to all parts of the city. Many different companies operate including Real (tel: (21) 2263 7689) and Novo Horizonte (tel: (21) 2233 7210). Tickets are sold on the bus.

An integrated Metrô and bus ticket (one-way combined fare), called Metrô/Ônibus, is available at Metrô stations.

Taxis: 

Yellow taxis operate with a meter and can be hailed on the street in Rio. Travellers should check that the meter is reset and indicates the correct tariff. There is a minimum fare, plus a charge per kilometre. Tipping is not necessary.

Radio taxis are safe and reliable but 30% more expensive than yellow taxis. Providers include Central de Táxi (tel: (21) 2195 1000), Coopertramo (tel: (21) 2209 9292) and Transcoopass (tel: (21) 2560 4888).

Driving: 

Rio traffic is quite chaotic and the efficient public transport system is a faster and cheaper way to enjoy the city. However, driving can be a good option for local excursions and reaching some of the further beaches. For visitors making a day trip to Rio by car, the best option is to park in a secure car park, leaving the car with an attendant. Parking in Rio is very cheap.

Car hire: 

The minimum age to hire a car in Rio de Janeiro is 21 years. A credit card is usually required as security but also for payment. An International Driving Permit is not normally required - just a driving licence. Rates include basic, third-party cover and collision waiver and personal accident insurance are extra.

Some major companies with car hire offices in the city include Avis (tel: (21) 2543 8481; www.avis.com.br), Hertz (tel: (21) 2275 7440; www.hertz.com.br) and Localiza (tel: (21) 2275 3340; www.localiza.com.br). These companies also have offices at both airports.

Bicycle hire: 

Cycling in Rio is considered a sport rather than an alternative way of transportation, so it is not recommended to ride outside of the cycle paths, which mostly run alongside the beachfront and around the Lagoa.

Bicycle hire is available from Bike&Lazer, Rua Visconde de Pirajá, 135B, Ipanema (tel: (21) 2285 7941; www.bikeelazer.com.br) and Mobilicidade at Copacabana and Ipanema Metrô stations (tel: (21) 2221 7460; www.mobilicidade.com.br).

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