By Bus in Rio de Janeiro

By Bus

Don't attempt using the bus unless you know which line to take and you speak enough Portuguese to ask directions (drivers don't speak English). Never take the bus at night. Much has been made of the threat of being robbed on Rio's city buses, and many local residents no longer ride public buses. If you are going to use a public bus, don't wear expensive watches or jewelry, carry a camera or a map in hand, or talk loudly in English. It's also wise to avoid buses during rush hour.

That said, local buses are inexpensive (about R$1-R$2.50) and can take you anywhere you want to go. (Route maps aren't available, but the tourist office has lists of routes to the most popular sights.) You enter buses at the front, where you pay the attendant and pass through a turnstile, then exit at the rear. Have your fare in hand when you board to avoid flashing bills or wallets.

The upscale, privately run, and air-conditioned Frescão buses run between the beaches, downtown, and Rio's two airports. These vehicles, which look like highway buses, stop at regular bus stops but also may be flagged down wherever you see them. Minivans run back and forth along beachfront avenues. Fares start at about R$1.40.