Getting Around

The metro extends from the Zona Norte to Copacabana, with shuttles to Ipanema, Leblon, Gávea, São Conrado, and even Barra da Tijuca. Within Ipanema and Copacabana, it's quite easy to get around on foot, but some attractions are a bit far apart, so a taxi might be the way to go. After dark you should always take a taxi if you're venturing into unexplored territory, and it's easy to hail taxis on every main street. Public buses are cheap and cover every inch of the city, but are difficult to figure out if you don't speak Portuguese. Avoid the bus at night. Vans are a form of informal public transportation that are much more frequent, quicker than buses, 100% safe, and only R$2 per ride; if you're staying in Copacabana or Ipanema, vans are a good and inexpensive option because they ride along the beaches, and you'll be able to easily recognize where you should get out.