Rio de Janeiro

Most flights arrive in Rio de Janeiro via International Airport Galeão. The airport is on Governador Island, the largest one in Guanabara Bay, and is located around twenty kilometres from the city centre. The airport is served by a good road network, including the Linha Vermelha and Linha Amarela freeways and Avenida Brasil. International Airport Galeão has a range of facilities including ATMs, banks, restaurants, telephones, parking and car hire offices. There are four bus lines (2018, 2101, 2145 and 2918) that run to and from the city centre and Rio’s other airport, Santos Dumont Airport. The buses run every ten minutes and journey times, which usually take around 40 minutes. For regular taxis, there are two companies at the airport, Aerotaxi: +55 21 2467 1500 and Aerocoop: +55 21 3078 5050. There are also VIP taxis available.

Ferries connect the mainland with some of the nearby islands. They are a good way to avoid road traffic while enjoying the view of the city and its bays. One of the most popular itineraries is the one going towards the tropical Paquetá Island, in Guanabara Bay. Bicycles are allowed on board if you wish to explore when you disembark.

There are plenty of taxis in Rio. They are usually fairly priced, but you must beware of the unlicensed ones and use only those associated with an accredited company: yellow, identified by stickers on the window and fitted with a meter. Sometimes taking a taxi may not be the best option: Rio is characterized by heavy urban traffic that may slow you down and make your rate increase significantly; on the other hand, during the night some drivers might quote you excessive rates. Taxis are usually found in the designated ranks outside hotels and airport terminals. When in doubt, ask the hotel or restaurant to call you a taxi, drivers often barely speak English. You can also request a ride with Uber. Nettaxi +55 21 98569 2648 Aerocoop +55 21 3078 5050 Aerotaxi +55 21 2467 1500

There are many post offices around the city of Rio de Janeiro. The name of the national post agency is Correios. Post office branches are quite easy to locate thanks to their blue and yellow sign.