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Getting Around Guarulhos

Getting Around Guarulhos

Guarulhos Sao Paulo, Brazil Travel Guide

Systems Overview & Hubs

Guarulhos has an extensive municipal bus network. Connections to São Paulo City are mainly via CPTM trains (Line 13-Jade from GRU Airport) and intermunicipal buses. São Paulo City boasts a comprehensive Metro (subway) and CPTM (commuter rail) network, integrated with its municipal bus system. The Metro is often the quickest way to traverse São Paulo's vast distances, avoiding surface traffic.

Guarulhos' major bus hubs include Terminal Urbano de Guarulhos and Terminal Rodoviário do Taboão. GRU Airport serves as a hub for airport-specific transportation, including the CPTM train.

São Paulo Metro/CPTM Hubs

  • Extensive network maps are can be found on the internet and at all stations.
  • Interchange hubs: Sé, Luz, Brás, Barra Funda, Consolação, and Paulista.
  • These stations allow transfers between separate Metro lines and CPTM commuter lines.
  • Metro/CPTM operates from 4:40 AM to midnight (1 AM on Saturdays).

Bilhete Único

An integrated smart card for São Paulo's Metro, CPTM, and municipal buses. Load with single fares, daily, weekly, or monthly passes.

Fare Costs

Single trip on Metro/CPTM: R$4.40 - R$5.00. Integrated fare (Metro + Bus): R$7.65. Purchase/recharge at stations or authorized retail points.

Accessibility

Newer Metro stations and some buses are accessible. Older stations may present challenges. Plan routes carefully.

Efficiency & Local Buses

Navigating Efficiently
  • Use apps like Google Maps or Moovit for real-time public transport information.
  • Avoid public transport during peak hours (7-9 AM and 5-7 PM weekdays) due to crowding.
  • Guarulhos Municipal Buses accept cash or the local "Bilhete Único Guarulhos" card.
Airport Train Specifics
  • GRU Airport Train (Expresso Aeroporto) requires a specific ticket for the direct service to Luz station.
  • Trains are frequent during peak hours (every 2-5 minutes) and less often during off-peak times (5-10 minutes).
  • Trams are not a feature of public transport in Guarulhos or central São Paulo.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

White, visible taximeter, company markings. Hail on street, taxi stands, or apps.

Typical Fares

Metered, with potential flag fall and increased night/weekend rates. Cash widely accepted, many take cards.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber and 99 are dominant. Fares displayed upfront in app, usually more economical.

Safety Tips

Verify driver/vehicle details. Share trip info. Avoid displaying phone while waiting.

Rental Options

Various rental options are available for checking out and convenience, though driving in São Paulo can be challenging.

Car Rental

  • Requirements: Minimum age (typically 21/25), valid driver's license, IDP highly recommended.
  • Major credit card in driver's name needed.
  • Companies: Hertz, Avis, Budget, Localiza, Unidas, Movida at GRU and São Paulo.
  • Insurance: Comprehensive coverage strongly recommended due to local road conditions. DiscoverCars.com for options.

Driving Laws & Conditions

  • Driving side: Right-hand side. You must wear seatbelts for all.
  • Speed limits strictly enforced. Zero tolerance for driving under influence.
  • Road conditions: Major highways generally well-maintained, urban roads vary.
  • Parking: Challenging street parking, paid lots widely available.

Other Rental Options

  • Motorcycle and scooter rentals are less common.
  • Generally not recommended for tourists due to dense, chaotic traffic.
  • Bicycle sharing systems (e.g., Bike Sampa by Itaú) exist in São Paulo.
  • Guarulhos cycling infrastructure is less developed for tourist use.
  • Rentals for use within parks or specific leisure areas may be available.
  • Specialty vehicles like tuk-tuks or jeepneys are not present.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian Areas

Guarulhos is more car-centric. In São Paulo, Paulista Avenue (closed Sundays), Ibirapuera Park, and historic center blocks are pedestrian-friendly.

Walking Tours

Guided and self-guided walking tours are available in São Paulo, focusing on historical or cultural districts. Less common specifically for Guarulhos.

Bicycle Safety

São Paulo has growing bike lanes. Safety while cycling is a concern due to heavy traffic; helmets are recommended. Avoid high-crime areas at night.

Specialized Transportation

Some unique services cater to specific travel needs, notably within São Paulo.

Tour Buses & Water Transport

  • São Paulo City offers "City Tour SP" (hop-on-hop-off bus service) for major attractions.
  • This service is not specific to Guarulhos.
  • Boat taxis and water transportation are not applicable for Guarulhos.
  • Cable cars, funiculars, or unique local transport are not present in Guarulhos or São Paulo.

Accessibility Services

  • Public transport accessibility is improving but remains challenging in older areas.
  • Numerous newer attractions have some level of accessibility.
  • Specialized private transit services for travelers with mobility needs can be arranged.
  • Plan direct routes with accessible options if mobility is a concern.

Getting Around in São Paulo

Metro System

The fastest way to cover long distances in the city.

Use the Bilhete Único card.

Bus Network

Extensive coverage, reaches many areas not served by Metro.

Use navigation apps for courses.

Walking

Best for exploring specific neighborhoods or parks.

Wear comfortable shoes.

Safety & Navigation Tips

Public Transport Safety
  • Be mindful of your belongings in crowded stations and buses.
  • Keep wallets and phones secure, out of easy reach.
  • Avoid walking alone late at night, especially after using public transport.
Ride-Sharing Confirmation
  • Always double-check that the license plate and driver's name match the app's info.
  • This helps ensure your safety when using ride-sharing services.
  • Share your trip details with a trusted contact via the app.

Driving & Road Warnings

  • Traffic can be very heavy, especially during rush hours.
  • Motorcycles often weave through traffic aggressively.
  • Keep car doors locked and windows up in traffic, especially in urban areas.
  • Steer clear of using your phone openly while waiting in traffic.
  • Some neighborhoods may have specific safety concerns; seek local advice.
  • Traffic signs are in Portuguese; a navigation app is essential.
  • Ensure your rental car has sufficient fuel for longer journeys.
  • Have emergency numbers saved on your phone.

Final Transit Tip

While Guarulhos is mainly an airport city, its connections to São Paulo are efficient. Plan your intercity travel using the Subway and CPTM for speed, or buses for broader reach.

For ease and safety, consider ride-sharing apps, especially for late-night movements.

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