How to get around in Florianópolis
What’s better: car, bus, or Uber?
June 22, 2026
If there’s one thing that can catch any traveler by surprise in Florianópolis, it’s getting around. The island is beautiful, full of incredible beaches, great places to eat, and lots of things to do… but moving between these spots is not always as simple as it seems.
The good news? There are several ways to get around the city. The not-so-good news? Each one has its pros and cons, and choosing the best option will depend a lot on your travel style!
Before planning your itinerary, it’s worth understanding how each option actually works in practice!
Car
Renting a car can be an interesting option for those who want to explore the island on their own. It’s the best ally for travelers who want to visit different regions of the island in the same day, especially if the idea is to reach more remote beaches or less accessible neighborhoods.
But it’s not all perfect. During high season, traffic can really test your patience (especially on the connections between the north, center, and south of the island). And when you finally arrive at that paradise-like spot… you might still need to drive around a bit to find a parking space.
Still, for those traveling in groups or with family who want to make the most of their time without relying on schedules, a car is a practical option (although you do need to consider rental costs, fuel, and parking).
And if you want to explore the island in comfort without worrying about driving, how about a private city tour by car with The Best of Floripa? With a personalized itinerary from the Historic Center to the beaches in the North and South, accompanied by a local guide, you can discover the city’s best hidden gems in a relaxed and exclusive way. Click here and check out this unique experience!
Bus
If the idea is to save money and take the trip without too much rush, the bus can be a viable option.
Florianópolis has an integrated transportation system, with terminals that connect different parts of the city (TICEN, TILAG, TICAN, etc.). In practice, this means you can reach many places, but not always in a direct way.
Depending on the route, you may need to make transfers, and travel time can be longer than expected. For those who want to visit several places in a single day, this can end up limiting plans a bit. On the other hand, if your itinerary is more compact or focused on a specific area, the bus does the job and still helps you save money.
It’s worth remembering that some lines run less frequently at night and on weekends, especially outside the high season, so it’s a good idea to plan your schedule in advance.
Uber and Ride Apps
Ride-hailing apps work well in Florianópolis, but with some important caveats.
In central areas and more busy neighborhoods, it’s usually easy to find rides, and they are great for short trips, going out at night, or moments when you simply don’t want to worry about driving or finding parking. However, if you are in more remote beaches or less urbanized areas, the situation can change: it’s not uncommon to wait longer for a driver.
Another point is comfort: in the standard category, it can vary quite a bit. There are more comfortable options, but then the price goes up as well. During peak hours or high season, surge pricing can also be surprising in terms of cost.
In the end, it works well as a complement (for short and occasional trips). It can also be an interesting alternative to renting a car for quick outings, but it’s hardly suitable as the only way to get around during an entire trip.
Extra: Bicycle and Scooter
It is also worth remembering an alternative that many people only discover once they are already on the trip: Florianópolis is an excellent city for short trips by bicycle or electric scooter. The island has a good network of bike lanes, especially in central areas, along the waterfront, and in flatter regions, making journeys more pleasant and even part of the experience.
In addition to shared bike and scooter apps available in the city, it is also possible to rent bicycles from specialized shops, such as Bike To Go. And for those who want to turn transportation into an experience, another interesting option is to join our Bike Tour, a different and more immersive way to get to know the neighborhoods, landscapes, and local culture while cycling around the island.
So, what’s the best option?
The most honest answer is: it depends.
If you want to explore the island freely, create different routes, and visit more distant beaches, a car tends to be the best investment.
If your idea is to save money and you don’t mind taking things more slowly, the bus can work (especially with good planning).
Now, if you’re looking for convenience in specific moments, ride-hailing apps are a practical solution, especially when combined with other options.
Final tips so you don’t waste time!
Before making your choice, it’s worth considering a few points that make all the difference:
- The location of your accommodation can make your logistics easier or more complicated
- In high season, always expect traffic and longer travel times
- Trying to see everything in a single day may not be the best strategy, so plan your itinerary in advance
- Combining different forms of transportation is usually the smartest solution
So, more than choosing between a car, bus, or Uber, think about the type of trip you want to have. With a bit of planning and realistic expectations, it becomes much easier to enjoy everything the “Magic Island” has to offer!
And of course: if the idea is to make logistics simpler and enjoy the island more comfortably, it’s worth remembering our Private City Tour by Car as a practical alternative to explore Florianópolis without worrying too much about transportation and planning.
Gabriela Scherer
Author
I am a film student, passionate about culture and stories that connect people. I have been dancing for over seven years and have explored seven countries in search of new inspiration. Between a photo and a good conversation, I continue living art every day.
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