GRU Airport Cultural Space Guarulhos
Brazil's busiest airport, a massive hub for international and domestic travel, offering a glimpse into global aviation.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Less crowded, ideal for spotting planes.
GRU Airport Cultural Space Guarulhos
Best Time
Less crowded, ideal for spotting planes.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Brazil's busiest airport, a massive hub for international and domestic travel, offering a glimpse into global aviation.
"The only lounge in this airport before the 'checked-in area'. Perfect for long stops."
✈️ Arrive Early!
Allow at least 2-3 hours before your flight to avoid stress.
🧳 Carry-on Liquids
For international flights, liquids must be in a 1L ziplock bag.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Airbus A380 Spotting
Terminal 2
Witness the world's largest passenger jet, the Emirates A380, up close. A must-see for aviation enthusiasts!
VIP Lounge Experience
Terminal 2 (Landside)
Relax before your flight in a comfortable lounge with amenities like showers and resting areas.

Airport Art & Culture
Various Terminals
Discover art installations and cultural exhibits scattered throughout the airport, adding a unique touch to your travel.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating GRU Airport: Essential Tips
Lounge Access & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✈️ Arrive Early!
Allow at least 2-3 hours before your flight to avoid stress.
🧳 Carry-on Liquids
For international flights, liquids must be in a 1L ziplock bag.
🛋️ Lounge Options
Consider landside lounges for long layovers before check-in.
📱 Visa Airport Companion
Visa Infinite cardholders can use the Visa Airport Companion app for lounge access.
Tips
from all over the internet
✈️ Arrive Early!
Allow at least 2-3 hours before your flight to avoid stress.
🧳 Carry-on Liquids
For international flights, liquids must be in a 1L ziplock bag.
🛋️ Lounge Options
Consider landside lounges for long layovers before check-in.
📱 Visa Airport Companion
Visa Infinite cardholders can use the Visa Airport Companion app for lounge access.
🛏️ Rest Areas
Comfortable couches are available in lounges for napping between flights.
📍 Terminal Navigation
GRU is vast; allow ample time to walk between gates.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reviews for GRU Airport lounges are mixed. While some praise them as a comfortable and safe haven for long layovers with amenities like showers and resting areas, others find them overpriced for the limited food and drink selection.
The lack of responsiveness via phone is also a noted issue for some."Truly not worth it.
It was great to have a lounge in the landside, but it is not worth the money. There is no food available besides some crackers and drinks (coke/water). Even coffee is charged.
Please save your money and go into a lounge after departures"
Inacio “LHI” LH
"The only lounge in this airport before the “checked-in area”. Perfect for long stops . Price was accessible. They are open 24h and it’s a very safe place to rest. I highly recommend it.
I had a 12 h stop in Guarhulos airport and did not want to sleep in any random area of the airport.
Found this lounge in the upper (2nd) floor in Terminal 2 and was so happy to be able to rest for 5 long hours.They offer a general resting area (where beds are not provided but you CAN sleep in the very comfortable couches). They offer a snack area (crackers, cookies , coke, water and coffee)(included in price).They also have a separate sleeping room with comfortable couches and some snacks, this room is dark and was perfect for my 5h nap in between flights. They also have showers and working pods( included in price)They offer locker service for your big luggage (included in price). All areas have plugs (3 point Brazilian plug) Staff doesn’t speak great English but they will try their best, they are kind.
I visited from 8pm to 1 am and was pretty empty. Will for sure return!
Highly recommend it!"
FLORES GORDILLO ALEJANDRA SOFIA 171541544
"The place is comfortable.. the only issue is that they don’t answer the phone when you try to reach them and I tried several times. But it’s fine, I was able to resolve things on my own at the end!!"
Guada Cabrera
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The cheapest option is typically the Airport Bus Service, which offers several routes to different parts of the city.
While taxis are convenient, they are significantly more expensive. Planning your route in advance is recommended to save money and time.You can take the Airport Bus Service from various points in São Paulo, or use ride-sharing apps.
Taxis are also available but are the most expensive option.Yes, the Airport Bus Service provides direct connections from several locations in São Paulo to GRU Airport.
Travel time can vary depending on traffic, but typically ranges from 45 minutes to over an hour via bus or car.
The Airport Bus Service functions as a shuttle, with various lines connecting the airport to different city destinations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Lounge prices can vary, but some reviews mention around R$255 for a 3-hour stay.
However, some travelers find the cost not worth the limited amenities. It's best to check specific lounge websites for current pricing.Yes, GRU Airport has lounges located landside (before the security check), which are ideal for long layovers.
Some lounges, like the one mentioned in reviews, are open 24 hours, making them suitable for overnight stays or very long layovers.
Some lounges offer access through specific credit card programs, like Visa Infinite with the Visa Airport Companion app.
Others can be accessed by purchasing a day pass.While there are general seating areas, dedicated free resting areas with amenities are limited. Lounges offer more comfort but come at a cost.
🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience
The best views of large aircraft like the Emirates A380 are often from specific vantage points near Terminal 2.
Keep an eye out for areas with clear views of the runways and taxiways.Yes, some lounges offer comfortable couches in dedicated resting or sleeping rooms.
Otherwise, you can try to find quiet corners in the general seating areas, though comfort is not guaranteed.For international flights departing from GRU, liquids in carry-on baggage must be in containers of up to 100ml and placed in a transparent, resealable ziplock bag with a maximum capacity of 1 liter.
GRU is a large airport, and walking between terminals can take a significant amount of time.
Utilize the airport's internal signage and consider the distances when planning connections.Beyond the usual airport amenities, GRU features art installations and sometimes hosts events.
Spotting large aircraft like the A380 is also a popular activity.🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While airport dining can be expensive, some travelers have discovered 'secret' or employee-known spots that offer more budget-friendly meals.
Otherwise, be prepared for typical airport prices.GRU offers a wide range of dining options, from fast food chains to sit-down restaurants, catering to various tastes and budgets.
Some lounges offer coffee, but in certain cases, it may be an additional charge.
Given GRU's 24-hour operation, several dining options are typically available around the clock, especially in the main terminals.
Food offerings in lounges can be basic, often including crackers, cookies, and some drinks.
Some travelers have found them to be quite limited.📸 📸 Photography
For impressive shots of large aircraft like the Airbus A380, look for vantage points near Terminal 2.
The airport's infrastructure and the sheer scale of operations offer many photographic opportunities.Generally, photography for personal use is permitted in public areas. However, avoid photographing sensitive security areas or personnel without permission.
Plane spotting, capturing the airport's architecture, and documenting travel experiences are common themes for photographers at GRU.
Yes, the Airbus A380 frequently visits GRU, and many travelers capture photos and videos of it.
Early mornings and late evenings often provide softer light and potentially fewer crowds, ideal for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep children entertained by pointing out the different aircraft, especially the large ones like the A380. The sheer scale of the airport can be fascinating for kids. Pack snacks and entertainment, as food options can be pricey and sometimes limited in variety for picky eaters.
💰 Budget Travelers
While lounges offer comfort, they can be costly. If you're on a tight budget, research free resting areas or consider bringing a travel pillow and eye mask to make sleeping in the general seating areas more bearable. Look for more affordable dining options, perhaps those known to airport employees, which can sometimes be found.
✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during early mornings or late evenings for optimal lighting conditions for photography. While not a dedicated viewing deck, the airport's public areas offer ample opportunities to observe the bustling tarmac.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating GRU: A Traveler's Guide
When it comes to security and baggage, be aware of specific regulations. For international flights, liquids in carry-on baggage must adhere to strict rules: containers up to 100ml, all fitting within a 1-liter transparent, resealable ziplock bag. This is a common point of confusion for travelers, so double-checking these requirements before your trip can save you hassle at the airport.
GRU also offers various amenities to enhance the travel experience. Several lounges are available, some even before the security checkpoint, which can be a lifesaver for passengers with long layovers. While the quality and offerings of these lounges can vary, they often provide a more comfortable and secure environment than the general waiting areas. For aviation enthusiasts, GRU is a prime spot for plane spotting, particularly the impressive Airbus A380, which frequently lands here.
Lounge Life at GRU Airport
The amenities provided can differ significantly between lounges. While some offer basic refreshments like crackers, cookies, coffee, and soft drinks, others might provide more substantial snacks or even a small menu. Reviews suggest that the quality of food and drink can be a point of contention, with some finding it lacking for the price. However, for many, the availability of showers, comfortable seating, and quiet resting areas makes the entry fee worthwhile, especially for longer waits. Some lounges even feature dedicated sleeping rooms, offering a darker and more private space to nap.
Access to these lounges can be through various means, including day passes, specific credit card affiliations (like Visa Infinite with the Visa Airport Companion app), or airline loyalty programs. It's advisable to research the specific lounge you plan to visit to understand its offerings, pricing, and access requirements to ensure it meets your needs.
Plane Spotting and Aviation at GRU
For the best viewing opportunities, strategic positioning is key. While specific public viewing platforms might be limited, areas near Terminal 2 often provide excellent vantage points for observing the A380 and other large commercial aircraft. The sheer volume of air traffic, from cargo planes to passenger jets, makes GRU a dynamic and exciting location for photography and observation.
Beyond just spotting, the airport's operations themselves are a spectacle. The vast runways, taxiways, and the constant movement of aircraft showcase the impressive infrastructure and logistics of a major international airport. Whether you're a seasoned aviation photographer or just a curious traveler, the skies above GRU offer a constant display of modern aviation in action.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit