São Paulo–Guarulhos International Airport
A major international hub with modern amenities, extensive shopping, and dining options, serving as a gateway to São Paulo.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Smoother security & immigration
São Paulo–Guarulhos International Airport
Best Time
Smoother security & immigration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A major international hub with modern amenities, extensive shopping, and dining options, serving as a gateway to São Paulo.
"Large and modern airport with lots of shops and restaurants for a fair price."
✈️ 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 .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Terminal 3's Modern Hub
Terminal 3
Experience a modern international hub with extensive shopping, dining, and VIP lounges.
Shopping & Dining Galore
All Terminals
From high-street fashion to local souvenirs, find diverse retail and culinary options.
Seamless Transfers
Between Terminals
Easily move between terminals with a short walk, though Terminal 3 is significantly more modern.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Guarulhos: Time is Key
Connectivity & Comfort
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✈️ 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.
📶 WiFi Woes
Free WiFi is limited and unreliable. Consider an eSIM or local SIM for consistent connectivity.
💧 Refill Water Bottles
Find free water refill stations near restrooms to stay hydrated and save money.
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.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
GRU is a large airport; be prepared for significant walking between gates and terminals.
📶 WiFi Woes
Free WiFi is limited and unreliable. Consider an eSIM or local SIM for consistent connectivity.
💧 Refill Water Bottles
Find free water refill stations near restrooms to stay hydrated and save money.
🔌 Brazilian Sockets
Most charging outlets use Brazilian sockets; bring an adapter if needed.
🚊 Budget Transport
The CPTM train is the cheapest way to reach downtown São Paulo from GRU.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available but more expensive. Allow ample travel time due to potential traffic.
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.
For budget travelers, the CPTM train is highly recommended. For convenience, especially with luggage, taxis or ride-sharing apps are readily available.
There have been reports of drones near the runway, which can cause flight delays and diversions. Stay updated on any airport advisories.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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. 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.
Yes, there are numerous power outlets available throughout the airport, particularly in Terminal 3. However, note that most use Brazilian socket types.
Terminal 3 boasts modern facilities including numerous shops, restaurants, VIP lounges, hotel massages, and ample seating areas.
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.
📸 📸 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.
Photography of aircraft is generally permitted in public areas of the airport. However, be mindful of security personnel and avoid photographing sensitive areas.
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.
While general photography is allowed, avoid capturing security checkpoints, restricted areas, or individuals without their consent. Always be respectful of airport regulations.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide good lighting conditions for photography. Consider the direction of the sun when planning your shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for family-friendly dining options, though be aware that many eateries may close late at night. 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.
💰 Budget Travelers
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.
✈️ Transit Passengers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Connections at GRU
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. Keep an eye on gate changes, as they can occur last minute, potentially requiring a long walk to the other end of Terminal 3.
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.
Staying Connected and Comfortable
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. 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. The availability of free water refill stations near restrooms is a welcome amenity for staying hydrated without purchasing expensive bottled water.
Budget-Friendly Transit to the City
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.


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