Rio de Janeiro

Galeão International Airport (GIG), Rio’s primary international gateway, occupies Governador Island in Guanabara Bay, 20 kilometres north of the city centre. Its two terminals are connected to central Rio by the Linha Vermelha and Linha Amarela expressways, with transport options to suit all budgets. Public transport is efficient: the TransCarioca BRT line runs 24/7, linking Terminals 1 and 2 to Barra da Tijuca (via subway connections at Vicente de Carvalho station) and the Novo Rio Bus Terminal. For direct routes, regular buses depart every 10 minutes to Santos Dumont Airport (SDU) and downtown (40-minute journey). Taxis are plentiful: book official yellow (standard) or blue (executive) cabs at arrivals desks to avoid inflated fares. Facilities cover essentials: ATMs, currency exchange, dining options and paid parking. While the airport lacks rail links, its BRT integration simplifies access to ferries, light rail and metro lines.

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.