MileHacker Logo
Getting Around Campinas

Getting Around Campinas

Campinas Sao Paulo, Brazil Travel Guide

Car Rental Information

Car rental gives you the freedom to explore Campinas and the surrounding region. Major Brazilian companies like Localiza, Movida, and Unidas are available, alongside international brands like Hertz, Avis, and Budget.

Booking in advance is recommended, especially during high season or if you need a specific vehicle type. A credit card is essential for the deposit.

Requirements to Rent

  • Valid driver's license from your home country.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) for non-Portuguese licenses.
  • Credit card for the deposit.
  • Minimum age requirement (usually 21 or 25), with possible young driver surcharge.

Driving Laws & Roads

Drive on the right. Seatbelts mandatory. Cell phone use illegal. Major highways are good, urban roads vary.

Parking

Paid street parking ("Zona Azul") and garages are common. Secure parking is always recommended.

Driving Safety

Drivers can be aggressive. Keep doors locked, windows up. Avoid unlit areas. Toll roads are frequent.

Other Rental Options

Bicycle Rentals
  • Readily available in areas like Parque Portugal (Lagoa do Taquaral).
  • Growing network of bike lanes (ciclovias) for recreation and short commutes.
  • Always wear a Helmet; caution in traffic.
Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals
  • Less common for tourists; availability might be limited.
  • Must have a valid motorcycle endorsement on your driver's license.
  • Requirements are similar to car rentals (IDP, credit card).

Accessibility & Specialized Transport

Accessible Buses

Newer public buses offer ramps for wheelchair users.

Infrastructure

Sidewalk and curb cut accessibility varies significantly.

Ride-sharing

Can sometimes accommodate specific mobility needs (request in advance).

Tour Services

Exclusive tours or agencies might offer accessible transport options.

Walking & Cycling in Campinas

Campinas offers pleasant areas for walking and a growing infrastructure for cycling, allowing for leisurely exploration.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

  • Parque Portugal (Lagoa do Taquaral): Excellent, flat paths for walking, jogging, cycling.
  • Bosque dos Jequitibás: Urban forest with pleasant walking paths, a natural escape.
  • Cambuí & Nova Campinas: Pleasant for daytime walking, boutique shopping, and architecture viewing.
  • Centro (City Center): Historically rich, but busy. Requires more caution as someone walking.

Cycling Infrastructure & Safety

  • Growing network of bike lanes (ciclovias) and shared paths (ciclofaixas).
  • Infrastructure is for the most part around parks and links some neighborhoods.
  • Always wear a Helmet when cycling.
  • Exercise caution in traffic; drivers may not always be accustomed to cyclists.

Walking Tour Options

  • Campinas does not have widely advertised commercial walking tours.
  • Self-guided tours using maps for historical downtown or specific neighborhoods are feasible.
  • You can hire local guides for customized tours.
  • No-Go Areas: Avoid isolated, poorly lit areas, specifically at night.
  • Be cautious in less affluent or peripheral neighborhoods after dark.
  • Stick to well-trafficked and well-lit routes for safety.

Specialized Transport Not Applicable

Tour Buses

Hop-on-hop-off services are not common. Most tours are not public or organized for day trips outside the city.

Water Transport

Campinas is away from the sea; no boat taxis or water transportation services are available.

Unique Local Transport

The city does not feature cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport systems.

Walking & Cycling Safety

While exploring on foot or by bicycle offers unique perspectives, prioritizing safety is important.

Pedestrian Safety Measures

  • Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places.
  • Use designated crosswalks and obey traffic signals.
  • Avoid walking alone in isolated or poorly lit areas after dark.
  • Consider reflective clothing if walking at dusk or night.

Cyclist Safety Guidelines

  • Always wear a properly fitted helmet.
  • Use front and rear lights, specifically during poor lighting conditions.
  • Signal turns and stops clearly.
  • Be predictable and follow traffic rules; ride defensively.

Accessibility Considerations

Public Bus Accessibility

Many newer buses have ramps and designated spaces.

Infrastructure varies.

Sidewalk & Curb Access

Infrastructure for accessibility can be challenging in older areas or during crowded times.

Plan accordingly.

Planning Ahead

If you have mobility needs, research specific routes or consider ride-sharing for convenience.

Prioritize accessible options.

Tour Buses and Unique Transport

Tour Services
  • Tour buses or hop-on-hop-off services are not common in Campinas.
  • Most tours are private or organized by specific agencies for day trips outside the city.
  • Check with area travel agencies if you desire a structured a guided visit within Campinas.
Unique Local Transport
  • Campinas is an inland city; there are no boat taxis or water transportation services.
  • The city does not feature cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport systems.
  • Tuk-tuks or jeepneys are not applicable or available as transport modes in Campinas.

No-Go Areas for Pedestrians & Cyclists

  • Avoid isolated, poorly lit areas, specifically after dark, for personal safety.
  • Exercise caution in less affluent or peripheral neighborhoods, notably at night.
  • Stick to well-trafficked and well-lit routes to minimize risks.
  • Always be alert, even in seemingly safe areas.
  • Consult local maps for areas known for higher crime rates or sparse pedestrian traffic.
  • Public transportation hubs can be crowded; stay alert against pickpocketing.
  • Prioritize well-established commercial and tourist areas for evening strolls.
  • Trust your instincts and avoid situations that feel unsafe.

Seamless Movement

Navigating Campinas is straightforward with its efficient bus network and readily available ride-sharing services.

Whether you choose to drive, cycle, or rely on public transport, you can move around the city with ease and confidence.

Getting Around Campinas. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental