Rio de Janeiro is a huge metropolis, and compares with the biggest and flashiest cities around the globe. 

 In fact, its South America’s second largest city and seems to continually expand its borders.  Getting around town to see the different sites and attractions in this sprawling city is crucial if you don’t want to miss the action. 

 The city offers a number of different modes of transportation to make your stay at this cosmopolitan city one that you’ll never forget. 

Subway
The subway, or Metro is perhaps the easiest way to get around town.  It’s remarkably clean and safe, and compares in cleanliness and safety to subway systems in other huge cities.  There are two main lines – line 1 and line 2.  Line 1 travels from the downtown area and North, while line 2 runs from the central subway station to the south, to its final destination through the mountains to Copacabana (only takes a quick 20 minutes).  There is also an integrated Metro/bus service that’s available. 

Subway hours are from 5 am until midnight, Monday through Saturday, and from 7 am to 11 pm on the weekends. 

Train
There is real no passenger train service in Rio.  Most of the trains carry cargo. 

Taxi
Taxis provide the most convenient source of transportation, especially if you want to travel to those faraway places.  They are, however, the most expensive mode of transportation in Rio.  There are yellow taxis (these use meters), red and blue taxis (originating at the airport) and radio taxis.  These radio taxis are pricier than the yellow taxis because they have a radio and are air-conditioned. 

Bus
Busses conveniently run throughout the city and offer the cheapest way to get from point A to point B.  They’re relatively safe and run 24 hours per day.  Air-conditioned buses are available as well, but fares are a bit higher than non-air-conditioned coaches. 

Car
Driving a car in Rio can be quite an experience (lots of traffic, not overly courteous drivers and a lack of parking).  In other words, unless you’re familiar with the city and have lots of patience, it might be best to rent a car only when you need to travel any great distances from the city.