Découvrir la ville à pied peut être une expérience agréable, en particulier dans le centre historique, où les rues étroites et l'architecture de la période préhistorique créent un environnement adapté aux piétons. Cependant, l'équipement de la ville varie et certains quartiers peuvent ne pas disposer de trottoirs ou de voies piétonnières adéquats. De plus, le climat tropique, avec des températures élevées et des averses occasionnelles, peut parfois gêner la marche. Bien que les trajets courts dans les zones centres-villes soient gérables à pied, les trajets plus longs peuvent nécessiter un autre mode de transport en raison de l'organisation et de l'étendue de la ville.

Cycling in São Luís can be challenging due to limited dedicated cycling infrastructure and the city’s layout. While some areas may be accessible by bike, the lack of extensive bike lanes and paths can make navigating the city less convenient for cyclists. Additionally, the city’s distances and terrain may not always be ideal for biking. Those considering cycling should carefully plan routes and assess local conditions to ensure safety and ease of travel.

The city of São Luís offers an extensive bus network that connects various parts of the area, making public transit a practical option for getting around. The infrastructure supports access to many neighborhoods and key locations, though travel times may vary depending on traffic and distance. The tropical climate can make waiting at bus stops less comfortable during hot or rainy periods, so planning ahead is recommended. Public transit is generally a cost-effective way to navigate the city, especially for those familiar with the routes and schedules.

Ferries provide a practical way to travel between São Luís and nearby destinations like Alcântara. Services typically accommodate pedestrians and may allow bicycles, though vehicle transport is less common. Sailings are generally frequent, with routes like São Luís to Alcântara taking about 1-2 hours depending on conditions. Ferries provide access to areas that might be harder to reach by road, but weather and infrastructure can occasionally impact schedules. This mode of transport is particularly useful for exploring nearby islands and coastal areas efficiently.