Flights to Rio De Janeiro (GIG)

The best time to visit Rio is from December to March when the weather is warm and sunny, making it the perfect time to enjoy the golden sands Copacabana and Ipanema Beaches. Temperatures average around 30°C, though it’s the peak season. If you plan your visit between February or March, you can catch the annual Carnival parade. Even in winter (June to August), temperatures are still warm and dry. October is also a popular time to visit as it's less busy, almost the start of summer, so a great time to enjoy the outdoors. Temperatures average around 26°C.

What is the main airport called?

Rio de Janeiro/Galeão – Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport (GIG). Also known by its original name Galeão International Airport, is the main airport serving Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. 

Arriving in Rio de Janeiro

The helpful staff at Rio de Janeiro Airport will greet you when you land and assist you with your travel needs. Once you collect your bags from the arrivals area, there are various transport options available to get you on your way.         

Getting into Rio de Janeiro from Rio de Janeiro Airport  

Getting into downtown Rio de Janerio is easy, with a range of transport options to suit your needs. Choose from public transport, taxi, ride share, hotel transfers or car rental. BRT is the bus rapid transport for a fast and convenient way to move from the airport to Rio. The BRT station is located in terminal 2 with regular services and the bus has a dedicated lane. There are local buses running on various routes from the airport to the city centre, Ipanema, Bancários and other locations depending on your destination. The nearest metro station from Galeão Airport is the Vicente de Carvalho, on line 2. You need to take the BRT to get to the metro station. Taxis are a convenient option and it takes approximately 35 minutes to get to the city, or you may wish to request an Uber through the app. It's possible to rent a car, though traffic in Rio is hectic and limited parking.

Getting around Rio de Janeiro

Efficient public transport, taxis, cycling, ride-share, walking and tours make getting around Rio de Janeiro relatively easy. Rio has an established metro system, known as the Metro Rail. This is the easiest and safest way of getting around the city. The metro is generally safe, clean and care should be taken if travelling at night. Tickets can be bought at the metro station or you can buy a rechargeable card. Buses connect most of the city and are an inexpensive way to get around. They run along set routes to various destinations. It's possible to take a ferry from Rio and Niteroi on the other side of Guanabara Bay. Taxis are the safest mode of transport in Rio at night, they are plentiful and can be hailed on the street. Most drivers speak only Portuguese, so it's best to have your destination written down in English. Alternatively, you may wish to book an Uber through the app. Cycling is a popular way to get around, with a network of dedicated bike lanes and the city has a bike share system for you to hire a bike. Most of Rio's tourist areas can be navigated on foot during the day, alternatively you may wish to join a guided tour.