How to get to Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is a vibrant metropolis and a famous resort on the Atlantic coast of Brazil, where millions of tourists flock annually for the beaches and carnivals. Before you travel to Rio de Janeiro, it is important to choose the optimal route, whether it be a flight, a journey by intercity bus, or a trip by car. We have prepared a detailed guide to help you decide how to get to Rio de Janeiro with maximum comfort and value.

Travelling by plane is the fastest and most convenient way to reach the city. Rio de Janeiro is served by two major airports that receive flights from all over the world and other regions of the country.

The main air gateway is considered to be Galeão International Airport (GIG), also known as Antônio Carlos Jobim Airport. It is located approximately 20 km from the centre and handles the majority of long-haul international flights. Good transport links to tourist districts are established here: you can reach your hotel via official taxi or comfortable buses.

The second important aviation hub is Santos Dumont Airport (SDU), which is located right within the city limits, on the shores of Guanabara Bay. It primarily serves domestic flights, including the popular "air shuttle" from São Paulo. The landing approach at Santos Dumont is considered one of the most scenic in the world thanks to views of famous landmarks.

Regrettably, it is impossible to get to Rio de Janeiro directly by train: the city has no railway station serving regular long-distance passenger trains. The country's railway network is oriented primarily towards cargo transport, so travellers are recommended to choose between flying and comfortable intercity buses.

When planning a complex route along the state's coast, it is worth orienting yourself towards neighbouring settlements. The closest cities to the metropolis are Maricá, located just 36 km away, as well as the popular resort destinations of Cabo Frio and Angra dos Reis. However, even to these points, it is more convenient to travel by road transport, as passenger rail service in the region is practically non-existent.

Bus services in the region are organised at a high level, so a trip to the metropolis by land often becomes a comfortable and budget-friendly alternative to taxis or car rentals. The majority of intercity services arrive at the main bus terminal, Novo Rio, which is easily accessible from neighbouring Maricá: a journey of about 60 km usually takes just over an hour.

Many travellers combine a beach holiday with a visit to the capital of carnivals, setting off from popular resort towns. The road from Cabo Frio, located 155 km away, takes about three hours, allowing you to enjoy scenic landscapes through the window. Approximately the same amount of time will be spent on the journey from Angra dos Reis — buses cover the distance of 160 km regularly and with maximum convenience for passengers.

Renting a car offers freedom of movement and the opportunity to enjoy the scenery: for example, a short drive from neighbouring Maricá will take only about an hour. The route from the popular resort of Cabo Frio will require more time: drivers will have to cover 155 km, which usually takes two and a half hours with average traffic.

The road from picturesque Angra dos Reis stretches for 160 km, and one should allocate about three hours for this journey, enjoying the views of the Costa Verde coast. Travellers also frequently use taxi services or ride-hailing apps, where the cost of a long-distance transfer varies on average from 350 to 500 Brazilian reals. Please note that traffic jams are possible at the entrance to Rio de Janeiro, especially during peak hours and on weekends.

Preparing for a trip to this bright metropolis requires attention to detail to ensure your holiday goes perfectly. We have compiled a list of useful recommendations for you, which will help you feel confident and comfortable during your trip to Rio de Janeiro.

1. Clothing and Items. The climate in the city is hot and humid for most of the year, so bring light clothing made of natural fabrics (cotton, linen). Be sure to pack comfortable shoes for long walks, headwear, and sunglasses. In the evening, a light cardigan may be useful, especially if you plan to relax by the ocean.
2. Transport. To move between main tourist zones and the centre, it is most convenient and safe to use the metro — it is clean and easy to navigate. For trips in the evening or to specific locations, it is better to order a taxi through official mobile applications, avoiding private drivers on the street.
3. Finances. The local currency is the Brazilian Real. Most restaurants, hotels, and shops accept bank cards without issues. However, it is recommended to carry a small amount of cash in small denominations for purchasing water, coconuts on the beach, or souvenirs from street vendors.
4. Health and Safety. Drink only bottled water and avoid ice in beverages at street cafes. The sun here is very strong, so regularly use high-protection sunscreen. For security purposes, do not wear expensive jewellery or technology on display, and leave valuables in the hotel safe.
5. Communication. The official language is Portuguese. English is not understood everywhere, generally only by staff in hotels and tourist places. We recommend downloading an offline translator or learning a few basic phrases, which will greatly endear you to the locals.
6. Local Etiquette. Brazilians are an open and expressive people. Greetings are often accompanied by a handshake or a kiss on the cheek (even upon first meeting). The "thumbs up" gesture is universal here: it means "thank you", "everything is good", or "hello".
7. What to Avoid. Do not visit favelas on your own — this should only be done as part of organised excursions with an experienced guide. Also, try not to walk on deserted beaches or unlit streets after dark.
8. Additional Advice. Pay attention to the voltage in the electrical network: in Rio, it is most often 110 or 127 volts, but some hotels have 220V sockets. The socket type may also differ (often type N), so it is better to purchase a universal adapter in advance.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid everyday difficulties and focus on the main thing — enjoying the unique atmosphere, beaches, and culture of one of Brazil's most colourful cities.