Metro (Subway): The most efficient way to navigate São Paulo. Clean, fast, and affordable at R$2.15 per ride. Four lines (red, blue, green, yellow) cover major attractions. Single trip tickets or rechargeable cards (VEM cards) available at stations. Operating 4:40 AM - 11:50 PM.
Buses: Extensive network covering entire city. Same pricing as metro. Requires magnetic cards (VEM) for payment. Less convenient for first-time visitors due to complex route system.
Ride-sharing (Uber/99): Safe, convenient, and widely used. Prices surge during rush hours (7-9 AM, 5-8 PM). Budget R$15-40 for average trips.
Taxis: White official taxis available but expensive and often refuse credit cards. Use metered taxis or call reputable companies (Coopertax).
Walking: Possible in specific neighborhoods (Pinheiros, Vila Madalena, Liberdade) but downtown traffic and crowding makes it challenging. Avoid walking alone after dark.
Tourist passes: Integrated metro/bus tickets available for multi-day passes at discounted rates.