Rio’s subway system, MetroRio, is a very reliable public transportation method in Rio de Janeiro.
There are two distinct types of trains. The ones running underground resemble the regular subway trains, while the ones running above the ground are of light rail type.
The Metro can reach most of the tourist attractions or somewhere near to them. The Metro runs every few minutes and for long hours.
However, bus shines in reaching all and any destinations. For example, for Hilton Copacabana, the nearest Metro station is a 15-minute walk away, while several buses stop right at the hotel door. Like everywhere else, bus's reliability depends on traffic. During Carnival, many streets are blocked and some buses either stop running or change routes.
Some knowledge of Portuguese helps in taking bus effectively.
It is also recommended to take a taxi during off hours instead of a bus.
