By air. Most international flights arrive at Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport (GIG), commonly called Galeao, about 20 km north of the Zona Sul. Domestic flights and shuttles to Sao Paulo use Santos Dumont Airport right in the city centre, with views of Sugar Loaf on landing. From Galeao, the cheapest option into town is the air-conditioned BRT bus. Taxis and ride-hailing apps (Uber, 99) are widely available -- a ride to Copacabana takes 30-60 minutes depending on traffic and costs roughly R$100-150.
By bus. Long-distance buses connect Rio to every major city in Brazil. The main terminal is the Rodoviaria Novo Rio in Santo Cristo, near the port area. It is reachable by metro, bus or taxi. Book tickets in advance for popular routes, particularly during Carnival and holidays. The overnight bus to Sao Paulo takes about six hours; to Belo Horizonte about seven.