The Metro is undoubtedly the most efficient and safe means of public transport for those wishing to explore Rio de Janeiro. The network connects major tourist spots, from the South Zone beaches to the Historic Center and Barra da Tijuca, avoiding the city’s common traffic jams.
Below, I offer some essential instructions so you can use the system with autonomy and peace of mind.
How to get to Botafogo Station
Upon leaving our building, you can get there faster by using the passage through Shopping dos Sabores and crossing the Hortifruti market. It is the fastest and most pleasant route (it is air-conditioned). This shortcut is open on weekdays between 08:00 and 20:00, on Saturdays between 08:00 and 19:00, and is closed on Sundays.
If this passage is closed when you want to leave the metro, the route without the shortcut is also short, taking about five minutes walking—it is about 500 meters.
The closest exit to the apartment is ACCESS E (Mena Barreto).
Payment Methods and Access
Technology has made accessing transport in Rio much easier. There is no need to face lines to buy tickets or load specific cards if you have modern payment methods.
- Contactless Payment (NFC): This is the most recommended option. Just tap your credit/debit card or phone (with active digital wallet) directly on the turnstile (validator) identified with the wave symbol. The system accepts Visa, Mastercard, and Elo. The charge is made automatically on your bill, with no extra fees.
- Giro Card or Single Ticket: If you prefer paying in cash, you can go to the ticket counters or self-service machines at stations to purchase a single ticket or the rechargeable “Giro” card.
Understanding the Lines and the Map
The system is intuitive and color-coded. Botafogo station, where the apartment is located, is a strategic connection point.
- Line 1 (Orange): Runs through the entire South Zone (Copacabana, Ipanema), passes through the Center, and continues to Tijuca (North Zone).
- Line 2 (Green): Connects Botafogo to the North Zone (Maracanã, Pavuna). Attention: On weekends and holidays, it may be necessary to transfer at Estácio station to continue on Line 2.
- Line 4 (Yellow): This is the extension that leads to Barra da Tijuca and São Conrado, starting from General Osório station (Ipanema).
- Navigation Tip: To get to the beaches of Ipanema or Leblon, you must board in the direction of Jardim Oceânico. To go to the Center (Museum of Tomorrow, Municipal Theater) or Lapa, the correct direction is Uruguai.
The Women-Only Car
Metrô Rio provides exclusive cars for women during peak hours; it is much more comfortable to travel in them.
- Identification: The cars are sticker-wrapped in pink, and there is signage on the platform floor indicating the exact stopping place.
- Hours: Exclusivity applies on weekdays, from 06:00 to 09:00 and from 17:00 to 20:00. Outside these hours, use is mixed. I recommend using these cars whenever possible during busy periods.
Operating Hours
Planning your return home must consider the stations’ closing times, which are strict.
- Monday to Saturday: 05:00 to midnight.
- Sundays and Holidays: 07:00 to 23:00.
- Carnival and New Year’s Eve: On these specific dates, the metro usually operates 24 hours, but it is necessary to check the special schedule released by the concessionaire at the time of the event.
The metro will be open 24 hours during Carnival, between 02/13/26 and 02/18/26. Enjoy!
Safety and Etiquette
Although the metro environment is safe and monitored, attention to belongings must be maintained.
- Backpacks and Bags: When entering the car, local etiquette and safety require backpacks to be placed in front of your body. This prevents theft and frees up space for other passengers.
- Escalators: Stay in the right if you are standing and leave the left side free for those in a hurry.