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São Paulo, Sao Paulo to Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro from $11: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
São Paulo, Brazil
to
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

How to Get from São Paulo to Rio de Janeiro: 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.

$11 by busBest price
351 kmDistance
2h 25m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from São Paulo to Rio de Janeiro 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
2h  25m
Estimated price
$45-447
Recommended
Company
1001
Bus
Average Duration
5h  45m
Estimated price
$11-40
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 351 km
Duration: 2h 25m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  53m
Estimated price
$40-454
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
2h  59m
Estimated price
$46-431
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  23m
Estimated price
$46-514
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
2h  44m
Estimated price
$50-420
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  45m
Estimated price
$450-451
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  56m
Estimated price
$452-453

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Fly $49 $31 $59 $73 $47 $58 $41
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Traveling From Sao Paulo to Rio de Janeiro

The journey from Sao Paulo to Rio de Janeiro showcases a shift from the bustling energy of Brazil's financial capital to the laid-back, vibrant beach culture of Rio.

Best Neighbourhoods in Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering a distinct vibe.

Copacabana
• Iconic beach with lively social scene.
• Extensive dining options along the promenade.
Ipanema
• Famous for stunning sunsets and trendy boutiques.
• Home to vibrant nightlife and cultural events.
Lapa
• Renowned for its historic arches and samba clubs.
• Bustling nightlife with diverse entertainment options.

Best Times To Visit Rio de Janeiro's Attractions

Discover the ideal times to explore Rio's highlights without the hustle and bustle.

Christ the Redeemer
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning views.
Sugarloaf Mountain
Weekday visits in the morning offer a more serene experience and clear skies.
Tijuca National Park
Explore in the early morning or on weekdays for a peaceful hike.

Rio de Janeiro Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Rio de Janeiro enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, though summer can bring humid conditions and occasional rain. The most pleasant times to visit are during the cooler months from May to September, when outdoor activities become more enjoyable.

Dining Recommendation in Rio de Janeiro

Try the traditional dish feijoada at the renowned restaurant Assador de Porco, where the vibrant atmosphere and coastal touches set it apart from the urban dining scene in Sao Paulo. The use of fresh, local ingredients and a relaxed open-air setting highlight Rio's laid-back culinary vibe, offering a delightful contrast to the city's bustling fine dining.

São Paulo - Rio de Janeiro operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
voegol.com.br

Plane from Sao Paulo Congonhas to Rio De Janeiro Santos Dumont

Average Duration
1h 6m
Estimated price
$50-455

Plane from Sao Paulo to Rio De Janeiro-Galeao

Average Duration
1h 4m
Estimated price
$45-455

Plane from Sao Paulo Congonhas to Rio De Janeiro-Galeao

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$40-455
Website
latam.com

Plane from Sao Paulo to Rio De Janeiro Santos Dumont

Average Duration
1h 1m
Estimated price
$456-455

Plane from Sao Paulo Congonhas to Rio De Janeiro Santos Dumont

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$457-458

Plane from Sao Paulo to Rio De Janeiro-Galeao

Average Duration
1h 1m
Estimated price
$457-455
Website
voeazul.com.br

Plane from Sao Paulo to Rio De Janeiro Santos Dumont

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$454-455

Plane from Sao Paulo Congonhas to Rio De Janeiro Santos Dumont

Average Duration
1h 3m
Estimated price
$454-455

Plane from Sao Paulo to Rio De Janeiro-Galeao

Average Duration
1h 6m
Estimated price
$458-459
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+55 4004-5001
Website
autoviacao1001.com.br

Bus from Tietê Bus Terminal to Rio de Janeiro

Average Duration
5h 45m
Estimated price
$11-40
Contact phone
0800 334 4344
Website
expressoadamantina.com.br

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

Average Duration
8h
Estimated price
$4476-40
Contact phone
+55 (19) 3733-5000
Website
vbtransportes.com.br

Bus from Tietê Bus Terminal to Viracopos International Airport

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
$4471-4472

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

Traveling between São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro 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.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from São Paulo to Rio de Janeiro, covering a distance of 260 miles. Enjoy the diverse landscapes along the way, from lush forests to coastal views. 💰 The cost of driving from São Paulo to Rio de Janeiro ranges from $40 to $65, making it an affordable and flexible travel option. Explore charming towns and local eateries as you make your way to the vibrant city of Rio. 🌴 Arrive in Rio de Janeiro after approximately 4 hours and 53 minutes of driving, ready to soak up the sun on iconic beaches, experience the lively atmosphere, and indulge in delicious Brazilian cuisine.
Average price
$40 - $65
🚄 Embark on a scenic train journey from São Paulo to Rio de Janeiro, covering a distance of 435 km in approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes. Marvel at the picturesque landscapes and charming towns as you glide through the Brazilian countryside.
Useful tips for train travellers
• Consider taking the 'Expresso de Luxo' or 'Viação Metrô' train service for your journey from São Paulo to Rio de Janeiro. Onboard services include a catering option with meals available for purchase that reflect Brazilian cuisine. Additionally, you can enjoy complimentary beverages (such as coffee and water) while onboard, ensuring comfort during your trip.
• The main operators for this route include the 'Fretamento' service by 'Metrô para Viagens' and the 'Expresso do Brasil'. Seating options vary, with 'First Class' offering spacious seats and enhanced service, 'Business Class' providing comfortable seating and a quieter environment, and 'Economy Class' being available at a lower price point with basic yet comfortable seating. Choose the class that best fits your budget and comfort preferences for this journey.
• Upon arriving at the 'Estação Central do Brasil' in Rio de Janeiro, you will find that the station has lockers available for luggage storage, allowing you to explore the city without heavy bags. Restrooms are available, but showers are typically not provided. To navigate the city, the quickest way to get to the city center is by taking the metro. Take Line 1 (the light blue line) from 'Central' station to 'Carioca' station; the journey takes about 5 minutes.
🛫 Flying from Sao Paulo to Rio de Janeiro is a convenient and quick journey, with the quickest direct flight taking just 55 minutes from Sao Paulo Airport to Rio De Janeiro Santos Dumont Airport. ✈️ Both Azul and LATAM Chile airlines operate flights on this route, providing travelers with options for their journey between these two vibrant Brazilian cities. The total duration of a flight from Sao Paulo to Rio de Janeiro typically takes around 2 hours and 25 minutes. 💸 Prices for flights between Sao Paulo and Rio De Janeiro can vary, ranging from $45 to $447, offering passengers a range of choices to suit their budget and travel preferences. With these flight options, travelers can easily experience the cultural richness and beauty of both cities.
Departure Point
Sao Paulo Airport
Arrival Point
Rio De Janeiro Santos Dumont Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Consider booking your flight with Azul or LATAM Chile for a direct route, as they offer competitive prices and ensure a quick 55-minute flight to Santos Dumont Airport, enabling you to maximize your time in Rio.
• Upon arriving at Santos Dumont Airport, take advantage of the clear signage to reach the metro station located within the airport; it's a convenient and economical way to reach the city center, avoiding the hustle of taxis during peak hours.
• Expect to pay around R$40-60 for a taxi from Santos Dumont Airport to the city center of Rio, but if you're looking for a faster option, for around the same price, you can opt for an Uber which might have more availability during local events.
🚌 The journey from São Paulo to Rio de Janeiro by bus takes approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes, with services departing five times a day from Tietê Bus Terminal. 🌄 Covering a distance of 435 km, the scenic route passes through beautiful landscapes as you make your way from the bustling city of São Paulo to the vibrant Rio de Janeiro. Prices for the bus ticket range from $11 to $40.
Departure Point
Tietê Bus Terminal station
Arrival Point
Rio de Janeiro station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your bus ticket in advance with operators like 1001, Expresso Adamantina, or Águia Branca to ensure you secure a seat on your preferred schedule; visit their websites for booking: 1001, Expresso Adamantina, and Águia Branca.
• Bring snacks and drinks for the journey as the bus may only have minimal service; packing a light meal or purchasing some local treats from a vendor at Tietê Bus Terminal before departure can enhance your travel experience.
• Upon arrival at Terminal Rodoviário do Rio de Janeiro, navigate the station by familiarizing yourself with the layout beforehand; check out the station map available here. Take note of the signs for taxis and the metro station to make your transfer smoother.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro is 225 miles. By plane, the typical travel time is approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. Taking a bus can take around 10 hours and 34 minutes, while driving by car can take around 5 hours and 1 minute. It may also be possible to fly to a nearby airport and then take a shorter bus or taxi ride to reach the final destination.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Sao Paulo to Rio de Janeiro is to fly. It takes approximately 2 hours and 39 minutes and costs between $50 and $550, depending on the airline and time of booking. Another budget-friendly option is to rideshare, which costs around $20 and takes approximately 5 hours and 10 minutes. However, the duration and cost may vary depending on the availability of rideshare services.
The prices for a bus ticket between Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo can range from $12 to $35. This variation in price may depend on factors such as the type of bus, the time of year, and the company providing the service. It is recommended to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deal and ensure availability for your desired travel dates.
To travel from Sao Paulo to Rio de Janeiro without using public transportation, you can consider using Blablacar's carpooling service. This service offers rideshare options, allowing you to share a car with others heading to the same destination. It is a great alternative if you do not have a driver's license or want to avoid public transport. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 274 miles, and it takes about 5 hours and 1 minute to drive from Sao Paulo to Rio de Janeiro. The prices for carpooling vary, ranging from $40 to $65.
If you do not have a car, the best option to travel from São Paulo to Rio de Janeiro is by bus. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 10 minutes and the tickets cost around $27 to $35. There are several bus companies that operate this route, offering comfortable and convenient transportation between the cities.
Yes, there is a direct link between Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro by bus. The bus service operated by Penha departs from Sao Paulo Tiete Bus Station and arrives at Rio de Janeiro. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 10 minutes, with services departing every 20 minutes, operating every day.
The flight between Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro typically takes around 1 hour. The quickest option is a direct flight from Sao Paulo Congonhas Airport to Rio de Janeiro Santos Dumont Airport. The cost of a flight between the two cities can vary between $46 and $451, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability.
There are plenty of accommodation options to choose from near Rio de Janeiro. With over 1273 hotels available, you can easily find one that suits your budget and preferences. Prices for hotels in the area start at $75 per night. Whether you are looking for luxury resorts or budget-friendly options, there are plenty of choices to make your stay in Rio de Janeiro comfortable and convenient.

Trips from São Paulo

Trips to Rio de Janeiro