São Paulo's
public transport
network is extensive but traffic congestion and a seemingly perpetual rush hour can make travelling by bus or taxis frustratingly slow going. Matters are made even worse when it rains: São Paulo's drainage system cannot cope with the tropical storms and, as roads are transformed into rivers, the city grinds to a halt - just take cover in a bar or
lanchonete
and sit it out. The city's metrô network, by contrast, is fast, clean and efficient, though limited in extent. As a
safety precaution
, when using public transport always make sure you have some small notes at hand, so as not to attract attention to yourself when fumbling through your wallet or bag for change.
With your own car, the main difficulties of driving in São Paulo are the volume of traffic and finding a parking space. Otherwise, roads are well signposted and it's surprisingly easy to get out of the city
Buses
Traffic congestion rarely allows São Paulo's
buses
to be driven at the same terrifying speeds as in Rio, though drivers do their best to compete. Despite everything, the network is remarkably efficient and includes trolley buses as well as...
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The metrô
Quiet, comfortable and fast, São Paulo's
metrô
would be by far the easiest way to move around the city were it not limited to just three lines. The north-south
Linha Azul
(blue line) has terminals at Tucuruvi in the far north of...
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Taxis
Taxis
in São Paulo are reliable and abundant but, given the volume of traffic and the often considerable distances involved in navigating the city, fares quickly mount. With irregular - or no - bus services at night, taxis are really the only means...
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