The best way to get from Rio de Janeiro airport (GIG) to Santa Teresa is by taxi. The taxi ride and fare are not as costy as from the airport to the famous beach districts of Rio since Santa Teresa is located before the beach area, thus closer to the airport.
On the other hand, Santa Teresa is up in the hill, and some taxi drivers switch to flag 2 on the way up (they have the right to switch to flag 2 when they drive uphill). This will not add much in the total price, but it is good to know that you are not being ripped off (in fact, some taxi drivers just keep driving on flag 1 as they know that the difference will be minimum).
Santa Teresa has several Bed and Breakfasts (called “Pousadas” in Brazil) such Casa Mango Mango, Casa Beleza, Casa Amarelo, Castelinho 38, Casa Cool Beans, and others. Wherever you choose to stay, a taxi ride from Rio de Janeiro international airport (GIG) will take approximately 25 minutes without traffic and cost roughly R$45-55; US$22-27; €18-22. Some hotels, hostels, B&Bs and guest houses may even offer you transportation from Rio airport to Santa Teresa upon your arrival.
Bear in mind that Santa Teresa is a bit isolated from other districts, which is good and bad. It is good because you experience the old Rio, a Rio de Janeiro at a slower pace. On the other hand is bad because there isn’t plenty of transportation to travel to other neighborhoods.
Because of the lack of direct public transportation from Rio de Janeiro airport (GIG) to Santa Teresa, you best, safe and hassle-free choice is to take a taxi.
To learn about Santa Teresa, which taxi company to hire at the airport as well as other important travel information to get the most out of your trip to Rio, get a copy of My Rio Travel Guide – The Essential How-To Visitor’s Guide to Rio de Janeiro.
Colonial building on cobblestone street in Santa Teresa – Rio de Janeiro – Brazil
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