São Paulo–Guarulhos International Airport - Sultan Hasanuddin Airport Makassar 2009
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São Paulo–Guarulhos International Airport

4.4
·107k reviews·, Brazil

A major international hub with modern amenities, extensive shopping, and dining options, serving as a gateway to São Paulo.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Thursday midnight

Smoother security & immigration

CrowdLow
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São Paulo–Guarulhos International Airport - Sultan Hasanuddin Airport Makassar 2009

São Paulo–Guarulhos International Airport

Best Time

Thursday midnight

Smoother security & immigration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A major international hub with modern amenities, extensive shopping, and dining options, serving as a gateway to São Paulo.

4.4
(107k reviews)

"Large and modern airport with lots of shops and restaurants for a fair price."

Vertical photo
TIP

✈️ Arrive Early for Flights

Allow at least 2-3 hours before departure to avoid missing your flight, especially with separate tickets .

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

GRU is a large airport; be prepared for significant walking between gates and terminals .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Terminal 3's Modern Hub

Terminal 3's Modern Hub

Terminal 3

Experience a modern international hub with extensive shopping, dining, and VIP lounges.

Shopping & Dining Galore

Shopping & Dining Galore

All Terminals

From high-street fashion to local souvenirs, find diverse retail and culinary options.

Seamless Transfers

Seamless Transfers

Between Terminals

Easily move between terminals with a short walk, though Terminal 3 is significantly more modern.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Guarulhos: Time is Key

Plan for ample time at São Paulo-Guarulhos International Airport (GRU). Connecting flights, especially on separate tickets, require careful consideration of transfer times. Arriving 2 hours before your domestic flight and 3 hours before international departures is a good rule of thumb to avoid missing your flight.TikTok

Connectivity & Comfort

While GRU offers free WiFi, it can be spotty and disconnects frequently, limited to 2 hours. Consider a local SIM or eSIM for reliable internet. The airport is vast, so comfortable shoes are a must for navigating between terminals or to distant gates.Reddit

Best Times

When
Thursday midnight
Why
Smoother security & immigration
Crowd
Low
When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, easier navigation
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends
Why
More dining options open late
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

PASSAGEIRA APREENDIDA COM PRODUTO NAS PARTES INTIMAS AEROSP2 #aeroportoarearestrita #discover #aeroportodeguarulhos #revista #aeroporto #receitafederal
@aerosp2
311.4K likes • 6.9M views

✈️ Arrive Early for Flights

Allow at least 2-3 hours before departure to avoid missing your flight, especially with separate tickets.TikTok

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

GRU is a large airport; be prepared for significant walking between gates and terminals.Reddit

Aeroporto de Guarulhos tem tiroteio; empresário ligado ao PCC é morto #CNNBrasil #Tiroteio #Aeroporto #Guarulhos #PCC
@cnnbrasil
279.5K likes • 17M views
Onboard a United Airlines Boeing 767-400ER as we fly into São Paulo/Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) after a 10.5 hour overnight hop over from Washington Dulles (IAD) for what is N76062’s final arrival of 2024. Definitely my favorite variant of the Boeing 767…and the 400ER’s GE CF6 engines provide a lovely sound that was a nice delight to mark my final long haul flight of 2024 😎• • #unitedair...
justinaplane
4.8K likes • 99.7K views

📶 WiFi Woes

Free WiFi is limited and unreliable. Consider an eSIM or local SIM for consistent connectivity.Reddit

💧 Refill Water Bottles

Find free water refill stations near restrooms to stay hydrated and save money.Reddit

LATAM Boeing 777-300ER cleared for takeoff at São Paulo/Guarulhos International Airport. From Microsoft Flight Simulator. Follow @flight.playground #msfs #flightsim #avgeeks #flightsimulator #aviationdaily #b777 #boeinglovers #latamairlines #fly #explore
flight.playground
12.3K likes • 2.4M views

Tips

from all over the internet

✈️ Arrive Early for Flights

Allow at least 2-3 hours before departure to avoid missing your flight, especially with separate tickets.TikTok

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

GRU is a large airport; be prepared for significant walking between gates and terminals.Reddit

📶 WiFi Woes

Free WiFi is limited and unreliable. Consider an eSIM or local SIM for consistent connectivity.Reddit

💧 Refill Water Bottles

Find free water refill stations near restrooms to stay hydrated and save money.Reddit

🔌 Brazilian Sockets

Most charging outlets use Brazilian sockets; bring an adapter if needed.Reddit

🚊 Budget Transport

The CPTM train is the cheapest way to reach downtown São Paulo from GRU.TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.4
(107k reviews)

Reviews Summary

São Paulo-Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) is a large, modern facility, particularly Terminal 3, offering a good range of shops and restaurants. While security and immigration are generally smooth, the WiFi is a common point of frustration due to its unreliability and time limits. Navigating the vastness of the airport requires comfortable shoes, and connecting flights, especially on separate tickets, demand ample time.

"Stopped by GRU for a transit and had a decent experience. Wait times are pretty ok, didn't have to wait too long. Lots of food options to grab a bite, which was a plus. Clean terminals and good shopping too. Overall, a smooth transit experience"

Ej Prince Noesis Mediavillo

"Large and modern airport. Terminal 3 Reminds me maybe Amsterdam or other European hub. It has lots of shops and restaurants for a fair price. Free water to refill your bottles on every toilet entrance . Terminal 2 is more humble with less shops and no banks but you can move without restrictions between terminals...just a 10 minutes walk.
On terminal 3 You have hotel massages, VIP waiting areas. There are also many shops like a high street or fashion street of Paris. You can find exchange shops, restaurants, bars, souvenirs and local product shops.
Many plugs where to charge phone but with Brazilian socket mainly."

Roberto Ferraris

"Airport had a big upgrade before the Olympics and now it’s up to international standards. Security was basically empty at Terminal 3 but a bit confusing where to get in to the Gates, directions and signs where to go are small and limited

Terminal 3 has nice stores and restaurants all around, but it’s long, if you have a gate till the end be prepared for a good walk, and they could change your gate at the last minute to the beginning.

Only complaint is the Wifi, probably the worst at any airport, not only it’s limited to 2 hours for free, but it disconnects continuously and when connected it doesn’t work at times, coverage keeps getting spotty throughout the airport"

Living UP Short Term Rental Properties

What People Like

Modern Terminal 3
Good shopping and dining
Clean facilities

What People Dislike

Unreliable WiFi
Long walks
Confusing signage

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most budget-friendly option is the CPTM train, accessible via a free shuttle from the airport to the nearest station.TikTok Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available but more expensive. Allow ample travel time due to potential traffic.TikTok

Yes, there is a free shuttle service connecting the terminals. However, many travelers find it's a pleasant 10-minute walk between Terminal 2 and Terminal 3.Reddit

For budget travelers, the CPTM train is highly recommended. For convenience, especially with luggage, taxis or ride-sharing apps are readily available.TikTok

There have been reports of drones near the runway, which can cause flight delays and diversions. Stay updated on any airport advisories.TikTok

Depending on your location, the CPTM train is often the most economical. For faster, though pricier, options, consider taxis or ride-sharing apps. Always factor in São Paulo's notorious traffic.TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

For domestic connections, 1.5-2 hours is usually sufficient. For international connections, especially with separate tickets, aim for at least 3 hours to account for immigration, security, and potential delays.Reddit

Connecting with separate tickets at GRU is possible but requires careful planning. You'll likely need to re-check your luggage and go through security again. Ensure you have enough time, at least 3 hours, to avoid missing your next flight.Reddit

Yes, if you have separate tickets or are arriving internationally and departing domestically (or vice-versa), you will typically need to go through security and potentially immigration again.Reddit

As an international airport, standard passport and visa requirements apply for entry into Brazil. For transit passengers, ensure you have boarding passes for your onward journey.

Check-in counter hours vary by airline. It's best to confirm with your specific airline, but generally, they open 2-3 hours before international flights and 1.5-2 hours before domestic flights.

🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience

Yes, GRU offers free WiFi, but it's often limited to 2 hours and can be unreliable, frequently disconnecting.Reddit For consistent internet, consider an eSIM or local SIM card.

Terminal 3 offers a wide array of restaurants and cafes, with options ranging from fast food to more formal dining. Many eateries close after 11 PM, so plan accordingly.Reddit

Yes, there are numerous power outlets available throughout the airport, particularly in Terminal 3. However, note that most use Brazilian socket types.Reddit

Terminal 3 boasts modern facilities including numerous shops, restaurants, VIP lounges, hotel massages, and ample seating areas.Reddit

While directions are generally good, signs can sometimes be small or limited, especially for gates at the far ends of Terminal 3. Be prepared for a good walk, and be aware that gates can change last minute.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

While official plane spotting areas might be limited, some travelers have found good vantage points from parking garages or specific areas within the terminals offering views of the tarmac.Instagram+1

Photography of aircraft is generally permitted in public areas of the airport. However, be mindful of security personnel and avoid photographing sensitive areas.Instagram+1

GRU is a major hub, so you can expect to see a wide variety of aircraft from airlines like LATAM, United, and others, including wide-body jets like the Boeing 777 and 767.Instagram+1

While general photography is allowed, avoid capturing security checkpoints, restricted areas, or individuals without their consent. Always be respectful of airport regulations.Instagram

Early mornings and late afternoons often provide good lighting conditions for photography. Consider the direction of the sun when planning your shots.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Traveling with children through São Paulo-Guarulhos International Airport requires a bit of preparation. Given the airport's size, comfortable shoes for everyone are essential, and strollers can be helpful for navigating long distances.Reddit While the airport offers many amenities, the WiFi can be unreliable, so consider pre-downloading entertainment or bringing portable chargers for devices.Reddit

Look for family-friendly dining options, though be aware that many eateries may close late at night.Reddit If you have a long layover, explore the shopping areas, but keep an eye on your belongings. The free water refill stations are a great way to keep kids hydrated without constant purchases. Planning for extra time for check-in and security is crucial to avoid stress with little ones.TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget travelers, the CPTM train is the most economical way to get from Guarulhos Airport to downtown São Paulo, utilizing a free shuttle to reach the train station.TikTok Pack snacks and a reusable water bottle to take advantage of the free refill stations Reddit and avoid expensive airport food. While the free WiFi is available, its unreliability means you might want to budget for a local SIM or eSIM for essential connectivity.Reddit

Look for deals in the shops, but be mindful that prices can still be high. If you have a long layover, consider exploring the airport's free amenities rather than paying for lounges. Prioritize comfortable footwear as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking.Reddit

✈️ Transit Passengers

Transit passengers at GRU should be aware of the airport's size and potential for long walks between gates.Reddit If you have separate tickets for connecting flights, allocate a minimum of 3 hours for your layover to comfortably manage baggage claim, re-check-in, and security procedures.Reddit The WiFi can be spotty, so ensure you have offline maps or a reliable data connection if you need to navigate or stay updated on flight status.Reddit

Terminal 3 offers more modern amenities, including a variety of dining and shopping options. Take advantage of the free water refill stations to stay hydrated during your transit. Be aware of potential gate changes and keep your boarding passes easily accessible. While the airport is generally efficient, unexpected delays can occur, so a buffer time is always recommended.TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Connections at GRU

Connecting at São Paulo-Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) can be straightforward, but requires attention to detail, especially when dealing with separate tickets. Travelers often advise arriving at least 2 hours before domestic departures and 3 hours before international ones to account for potential queues at check-in, security, and immigration.TikTok If you have separate tickets, you will likely need to collect your luggage, re-check it for your next flight, and pass through security and immigration again. This process can add significant time, making a layover of less than 3 hours risky.Reddit

Terminal 3 is the most modern and houses most international flights, while Terminal 2 is more basic. While there's a free shuttle, many find the 10-minute walk between T2 and T3 manageable.Reddit Keep an eye on gate changes, as they can occur last minute, potentially requiring a long walk to the other end of Terminal 3.Reddit

For a smoother experience, consider purchasing your tickets together if possible. If not, ensure you have all necessary travel documents readily accessible and be prepared for a potentially lengthy process. Staying informed about any airport advisories, such as drone activity that has caused delays in the past, is also prudent.TikTok

Staying Connected and Comfortable

Connectivity at GRU can be a challenge for travelers. The airport offers free WiFi, but it's notoriously unreliable, often disconnecting and limited to a 2-hour duration.Reddit This can be frustrating for those needing to stay in touch, work, or navigate. Many travelers recommend purchasing a local SIM card or an eSIM before arriving or upon arrival for a more stable internet connection. This is particularly useful for ride-sharing apps or staying updated on flight information.

Comfort is also a key consideration due to the airport's vast size. Terminal 3, in particular, can involve significant walking to reach distant gates.Reddit Wearing comfortable shoes is a frequently cited tip among travelers. While there are plenty of charging outlets, they primarily use Brazilian socket types, so bringing an adapter is advisable.Reddit The availability of free water refill stations near restrooms is a welcome amenity for staying hydrated without purchasing expensive bottled water.Reddit

Budget-Friendly Transit to the City

For travelers looking to reach downtown São Paulo from Guarulhos Airport without breaking the bank, the CPTM train is the undisputed champion. A free shuttle service operates from the airport terminals to the nearest CPTM station, making it an accessible and economical option.TikTok This method is significantly cheaper than taxis or ride-sharing services, which can become quite costly, especially during peak hours or with heavy traffic.

While the train offers substantial savings, it's important to be aware of potential delays and the time it takes to reach your final destination within the city. Travelers should factor in the shuttle ride to the station, the train journey itself, and any further transfers needed to reach their specific location in São Paulo. Despite these considerations, for budget-conscious travelers, the CPTM train remains the top recommendation for airport-to-city transit.TikTok

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