How to Get to Paraty: Transportation Routes from Rio and São Paulo
Paraty is conveniently located on Brazil's Green Coast (Costa Verde), almost midway between Rio de Janeiro (approx. 250 km / 155 miles) and São Paulo (approx. 270 km / 168 miles). Here are the most reliable, comfortable ways to reach town.
Option 1: Door-to-Door Private or Shared Transfers
Best For: Comfort, international arrivals with luggage, and peace of mind.
Shared vans and private air-conditioned drivers pick you up directly from Rio's airports (Galeão GIG or Santos Dumont SDU) or hotels in South Zone (Copacabana/Ipanema) and drop you directly at your pousada in Paraty. Journey time is around 4 to 4.5 hours along the scenic coastal highway BR-101 (Rio-Santos).
Option 2: Comfortable Coach Buses
From Rio de Janeiro: Operated by Viação Costa Verde departing from Novo Rio Bus Terminal (Rodoviária do Novo Rio). Departures run roughly every 2 hours from early morning until late evening. The buses are modern, air-conditioned, with reclining seats and onboard Wi-Fi. (Approx. 4h30).
From São Paulo: Operated by Viação Reunidas Paulistas departing from Tietê Bus Terminal (Rodoviária do Tietê). Travels down the coastal hills via Taubaté or Cunha. (Approx. 6 hours).
Option 3: Driving a Rental Car
Driving from Rio along the BR-101 Rio-Santos highway offers sensational sea views. Note that cars cannot drive inside the pedestrian Historic Center of Paraty, so verify that your chosen pousada provides secure parking nearby or choose accommodations in Pontal or Caborê.