The city is spread out and not easy to navigate on foot between neighbourhoods. The bus network is extensive but can be confusing for visitors unfamiliar with the route system. Taxis and app-based services (Uber and 99) are widely available and inexpensive by European standards — they are the practical option for most visitors.
Driving is straightforward, as Ribeirão Preto is a grid city with wide avenues. Car rental is available at the airport and in the centre. For the historic centre itself, walking is fine — the Praça da Independência, the cathedral, and the surrounding streets are all within comfortable walking distance of each other.