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Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro to São Paulo, Sao Paulo from $16: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
to
São Paulo, Brazil

How to Get from Rio de Janeiro to São Paulo: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$16 by busBest price
351 kmDistance
1h 52m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Rio de Janeiro to São Paulo with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
1h  52m
Estimated price
$47-422
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
6h 
Estimated price
$16-50
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 351 km
Duration: 1h 52m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
2h  30m
Estimated price
$47-447
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
2h  19m
Estimated price
$48-515
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
2h  46m
Estimated price
$53-422
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
2h  58m
Estimated price
$80-470
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  20m
Estimated price
$471-472
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
7h  43m
Estimated price
$473-474
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  49m
Estimated price
$475-476

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $16 $14 $14 $14 $14 $12 $21
Fly $370 $176 $76 $317 $116 $60 $40
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Rio de Janeiro to Sao Paulo

Your journey from Rio de Janeiro to Sao Paulo offers a striking contrast, with Rio's vibrant beaches and laid-back vibe giving way to Sao Paulo's bustling urban landscape and rich cultural scene.

Best Neighborhoods in Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences and highlights.

Jardins
• Upscale shopping and dining options abound.
• Tree-lined streets create a charming atmosphere.
Vila Madalena
• Known for vibrant street art and nightlife.
• Trendy cafes and boutique shops attract locals.
Liberdade
• Home to the largest Japanese community outside Japan.
• Offers unique cultural festivals and tasty cuisine.

Best Times To Visit Sao Paulo's Attractions

Timing your visits to Sao Paulo's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Avenida Paulista
Visit early on weekdays to enjoy a quieter stroll and fewer crowds.
Ibirapuera Park
Go in the early morning for peaceful moments amidst nature and vibrant locals.
Museu de Arte de São Paulo (MASP)
Choose Tuesdays or late afternoons for a more relaxed museum experience.

Sao Paulo Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Sao Paulo enjoys a subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination. The best times to visit are during the dry season from May to September, as pleasant temperatures create a comfortable travel experience.

Dining in Sao Paulo: A Culinary Adventure

Don't miss trying the iconic dish feijoada at Casa do Porco, where rich flavors and local ingredients come together in a vibrant setting. Unlike the seafood-focused cuisine of Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo's dining scene celebrates a diverse array of influences, offering a gastronomic journey that reflects the city’s multicultural heritage.

Rio de Janeiro - São Paulo operators

Explore transport companies operating between Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane
Website
voeazul.com.br

Plane from Rio de Janeiro Santos Dumont to Sao Paulo Congonhas

Average Duration
1h 8m
Estimated price
$476-4710

Plane from Rio de Janeiro Santos Dumont to Sao Paulo

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$476-4710

Plane from Rio de Janeiro-Galeao to Sao Paulo

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$479-4221

Plane from Rio de Janeiro Jacarepagua to Sao Paulo Congonhas

Average Duration
1h 42m
Estimated price
$471-4222

Plane from Rio de Janeiro Santos Dumont to Sao Paulo Viracopos

Average Duration
1h 13m
Estimated price
$4223-42200
Website
voegol.com.br

Plane from Rio de Janeiro Santos Dumont to Sao Paulo Congonhas

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$50-4710

Plane from Rio de Janeiro-Galeao to Sao Paulo Congonhas

Average Duration
1h 13m
Estimated price
$475-4710

Plane from Rio de Janeiro-Galeao to Sao Paulo

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$477-4710
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
0800 725 1211
Website
aguiabranca.com.br

Bus from Rio de Janeiro - Novo Rio to Tietê Bus Terminal

Average Duration
6h
Estimated price
$16-50
Contact phone
0800 723 2121
Website
itapemirim.com.br

Bus from Novo Rio to Tietê Bus Terminal

Average Duration
6h
Estimated price
$16-4226
Contact phone
0800 334 4344
Website
expressoadamantina.com.br

Bus from Terminal Rodoviário do Rio de Janeiro to Rodoviária de São Paulo - Terminal Tietê

Average Duration
5h 45m
Estimated price
$4228-0
Contact phone
0800 646 2122
Website
nspenha.com.br

Bus from New Rio Bus Station to Sao Paulo Tiete Bus Station

Average Duration
6h
Estimated price
$473-160
Contact phone
+55 4004-5001
Website
autoviacao1001.com.br

Bus from Rio de Janeiro to Tietê Bus Terminal

Average Duration
6h 30m
Estimated price
$473-475

Rio de Janeiro to São Paulo: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

Average price
$40 - $65
Useful tips for car travellers
• Fill up your gas tank at a Petrobras along BR-116, as prices are currently around R$ 5.70 per liter, and there's good availability of stations every 50-70 km.
• As you enter Sao Paulo, be aware of the 'Zona de Máxima Restrição de Circulação' (ZMRC) during weekdays, where certain areas restrict vehicles based on their license plate ending; use Google Maps for real-time traffic updates.
• Plan to park in the Bairros such as Vila Madalena or Jardins, where daily parking rates can range from R$ 30 to R$ 100, and consider using apps like Estapar or Parking Blue for easier management and finding available spaces.
Useful tips for train travellers
• The primary operators for the Rio de Janeiro to São Paulo route are Companhia Paulista de Trens Metropolitanos (CPTM) and Viação Férrea do Estado de São Paulo (VFE). While there are no direct long-distance train services like in other regions, consider checking out regional trains or commuter services that connect the two cities. Websites for more info: CPTM - cptm.sp.gov.br; VFE - ferroviasaopaulo.com.br
• Seating options vary significantly depending on the train service you choose. If you find a luxury bus service instead, options often range from Economy class with reclining seats to Business class that includes spacious seating and refreshments. Ensure to book in advance as seats can fill quickly, especially on weekends.
• Upon arrival at the main bus terminal in São Paulo (Terminal Rodoviário do Tietê), expect to manage your luggage in the designated storage area. They usually do offer baggage storage for a small fee. This comes in handy if you're planning to explore the city before checking into your accommodation. Restrooms are available, but showers might not be; check their facilities ahead of time to plan your visit.
• The fastest way to get from Terminal Rodoviário do Tietê to the city center is to take the Metro. Board Line 1 (Blue) directly from the terminal to 'Luz' station. From there, transfer to Line 4 (Yellow) towards 'São Paulo - Morumbi.' This route typically takes around 30-40 minutes. Additionally, you can check local transport schedules for buses that may provide alternative routes.
Departure Point
Rio De Janeiro Santos Dumont Airport
Arrival Point
Sao Paulo Congonhas Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Arrive at Santos Dumont Airport (SDU) at least 1.5 to 2 hours early, as check-in and security can become busy before flights to São Paulo, with some travelers opting for the easy-access terminal.
• Upon arriving at Congonhas Airport (CGH), expect to navigate a compact terminal with signage in both Portuguese and English; utilize the baggage claim area efficiently, as it's often bustling with travelers, and keep your boarding pass handy for ID checks.
• Taxi fares from Congonhas Airport to city center São Paulo typically range from R$ 40 to R$ 70, depending on traffic conditions, so consider using the 99 or Uber apps for potentially lower prices and better convenience.
Departure Point
Rio de Janeiro - Novo Rio station
Arrival Point
Tietê Bus Terminal station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your bus ticket in advance through platforms like ClickBus (jca.clickbus.com.br) or the direct site of Águia Branca (aguiabranca.com.br) to secure your preferred seat on one of the five daily departures from Rio de Janeiro - Novo Rio to São Paulo.
• During your 6-hour journey, take advantage of the scenic views along the route; be prepared for varying landscapes, such as lush mountains and bustling towns, especially if your bus stops at rest areas.
• Upon arrival at Tietê Bus Terminal in São Paulo, be sure to follow the signs to the Metro station located in the terminal for convenient access to various parts of the city—familiarize yourself with the maps available on the station's official website (sptrans.com.br) to plan your next steps.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Rio de Janeiro to São Paulo.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo is approximately 225 miles, with a road distance of 267 miles. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By flying, it takes around 1 hour and 35 minutes to reach Sao Paulo from Rio de Janeiro. If driving, it takes approximately 4 hours and 55 minutes. Alternatively, taking a bus from Rio de Janeiro to Sao Paulo typically takes around 6 hours and 10 minutes.
The prices for a bus ticket between Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro can range from $11 to $35. This is generally the most budget-friendly option for traveling between the two cities. It's a good idea to compare prices and schedules from different bus companies to find the best deal.
One option to travel from Rio de Janeiro to São Paulo without using public transportation is to use BlaBlaCar's carpooling service. This service allows you to share a ride with someone who is driving from Rio de Janeiro to São Paulo. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 267 miles, and it takes around 4 hours and 55 minutes to drive. The prices for carpooling options can vary, ranging from $40 to $65.
If you don't have a car, the best way to travel from Rio de Janeiro to São Paulo is by bus. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 10 minutes, and the ticket prices range from $11 to $35. Buses are a convenient and cost-effective option for traveling between the two cities without needing to drive.
Yes, there is a direct link between Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo. There is a bus service operated by Penha that departs from Rio de Janeiro and arrives at Sao Paulo Tiete Bus Station. The buses run every 20 minutes and the journey takes approximately 6 hours and 10 minutes. This provides an convenient and affordable option for traveling between the two cities.
The flight between Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo typically takes around 1 hour with a direct flight. The cost of a flight between the two cities can vary, ranging from $49 to $443. It is recommended to book in advance and compare prices from different airlines to get the best deal.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Sao Paulo. With over 1357 hotels to choose from, travelers have a wide range of choices to suit their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels start at $33 per night, providing affordable options for all types of travelers. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, budget-friendly hostels, or cozy bed and breakfasts, there is something for everyone in Sao Paulo.

Trips from Rio de Janeiro