🚌 Buses at Rio Galeão Airport
Rio de Janeiro–Galeão International Airport (GIG) offers several bus lines that connect the airport with key neighborhoods in Rio de Janeiro as well as other cities in the state. It is an affordable option, although not always the most direct or comfortable, especially if you are carrying a lot of luggage or arriving late at night. Below you’ll find all the alternatives with schedules, fares, and tips based on real user experiences.
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Buses at GIG Airport
- Where do I catch the buses? Outside the terminals. BRT at gate H (T1) and gate D (T2); intercity buses next to the regular taxi stand.
- Is the BRT a direct line? Not always. There is an express version (fewer stops) and a regular service (slower).
- Can I pay by card? Some services accept local transport cards (Riocard), but others only accept cash. We recommend carrying small bills.
- Do they run overnight? Most do not. Only a few municipal lines and the BRT run until approximately 10:00–11:00 pm.
- Is it safe to use the bus? During the day, yes. At night, stops may be poorly lit. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid isolated areas.
🚍 Expresso Recreio “Frescão” Buses
These are large, air-conditioned buses with luggage compartments. They operate routes between Galeão and the main tourist areas of the South Zone (Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon). This is the most comfortable option among city buses.
🟡 Main Routes
- 2918: Galeão ⇄ Alvorada (Barra, via the South Zone) – R$24.85 | 7:30 am to 9:00 pm
- LECD71: Galeão ⇄ Leblon – R$24.85 | 6:45 am to 8:15 pm
Tip: Ideal if you arrive during the day, are traveling alone, and want to avoid taxi fares. Not recommended if you have a lot of luggage or arrive late at night.
🚄 BRT “Ligerão” Buses
The BRT system connects the airport with different areas of Rio via exclusive lanes. There are two types of service: express (fewer stops) and regular.
🛣 TransCarioca Express Line (semi-direct)
- Connection between Galeão and Alvorada Terminal (Barra da Tijuca)
- Main stops: Fundão, Madureira, Vicente de Carvalho (Metro Line 2 connection)
- Hours: 4:00 am to 10:10 pm | Fare: R$4.30
- Airport stops: Terminal 1 (gate H), Terminal 2 (gate D)
🚏 Regular TransCarioca Line (with stops)
- Serves 47 stations and 5 terminals
- Slower but more accessible from different neighborhoods
Tip: Very useful if you plan to connect with the metro, but not recommended if you have a lot of luggage or are in a hurry.
🚌 Auto Viação 1001 (Intercity)
Connects the airport with tourist cities such as Búzios, Charitas (Niterói), or Macaé. Ideal for travelers arriving in Rio but heading to another city.
🌍 Routes and Schedules
- 760D: Charitas ⇄ Galeão – R$12.65 | Monday to Friday 4:30 am to 9:00 pm / Weekends 5:30 am to 9:00 pm
- 1760D: Galeão ⇄ Charitas – R$12.65 | Monday to Friday 6:00 am to 10:30 pm / Weekends 7:00 am to 10:30 pm
- Búzios: From R$107.27 | 9:20 am, 11:20 am, and 3:20 pm
- Macaé: R$96.82 | 8:50 am
Tip: Buy your ticket online in advance. If your flight is delayed, you may miss the bus without a refund.
🟩 Regular (Local) Lines
These are standard buses that operate local routes from Ilha do Governador (where the airport is located) to other parts of the city. They have no space for luggage and are usually slow.
- Paranapuan 328: Galeão ⇄ Bananal, Candelária – R$4.30
- Paranapuan 915: Galeão ⇄ Bonsucesso – R$4.30
- Paranapuan 922: Galeão ⇄ Fundão, Tubiacanga – R$4.30
- Ideal 925: Galeão ⇄ Bancários – R$4.30
Tip: Only recommended if you already know the city or have previous experience using public transportation in Brazil.
📊 Quick Comparison of Bus Services from GIG
| Service | Destination | Hours | Fare | Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Expresso Recreio (Frescão) | South Zone, Alvorada | 6:45 am – 9:00 pm | R$24.85 | ✅ Comfortable, air-conditioned |
| BRT Express | Alvorada via Fundão, Madureira | 4:00 am – 10:10 pm | R$4.30 | ⚠️ Fast, but can be crowded |
| Auto Viação 1001 | Búzios, Macaé, Charitas | 4:30 am – 10:30 pm (varies) | R$12.65 – R$107.27 | ✅ Ideal for long-distance trips |
| Local Lines (328, 915…) | North Zone and downtown | Varies | R$4.30 | ❌ Slow, no luggage space |
🧭 Which Bus Should You Take from Galeão?
✔️ For tourists → Frescão (Expresso Recreio) or BRT + Metro (if you have little luggage)
✔️ For trips outside the city → Auto Viação 1001 (Búzios, Macaé…)
❌ Not recommended → Regular city lines if it’s your first time in Rio or you’re traveling with luggage.
In summary: Buses from Galeão are an affordable option but require planning. For more comfort, consider private transfers or ride-hailing apps like Uber, especially if you arrive at off-peak hours or are traveling in a group.