The insider's guide, from travelers who've actually been through.
GRU handles most international traffic through T2 and T3. T2 is the main international terminal with the strongest lounge and dining infrastructure. T3 is newer and handles a mix of domestic and some international routes. The two terminals share an airside connector, so most connecting passengers don’t need to clear customs between them if they are on a through ticket. For city access, the CPTM Line 13 train connects GRU Airport to Bom Retiro-Pirituba, where you transfer for other lines into the city center. The full journey to central Sao Paulo takes about 50 to 60 minutes and costs around BRL 5 (verify current fares).
Before your layover here
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Taxis from the regulated taxi rank at GRU to Avenida Paulista run around BRL 120 to 180, taking 40 to 60 minutes in normal traffic. App-based rides (Uber, 99) are significantly cheaper. Immigration for non-Brazilian arrivals can be slow; budget 45 to 60 minutes during peak arrival banks (06:00-10:00 and 17:00-21:00 local time). The airport is about 25 km from central Sao Paulo. If you are arriving at night, verify the train schedule as Line 13 service may not run 24 hours.
| Terminal | Lounge | Access | Showers | Good for | Price (paid) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| T2 | LATAM Lounge | LATAM Business / Gold+ | Yes | Good buffet, Brazilian food options | Status / class only |
| T2 | GoldPremium Lounge | Priority Pass / Dragon / Paid | Yes | Reliable PP option, solid food | About BRL 200-300 at desk; confirm |
| T3 | Plaza Premium / PP lounge | Priority Pass / Dragon / Paid | Yes | Good for T3 departures | About BRL 180-280; confirm at desk |
| T2 | GOL Premium Lounge | GOL status / Diamond | Yes | Adequate for domestic connections | Status only |
Free WiFi is available in T2 and T3. Prayer facilities are limited; confirm locations with airport staff. Showers are available through lounge day passes. Currency exchange is available airside in T2, though rates are better in the city. Food in the terminal includes Brazilian options and international chains. Luggage storage is available landside in T2. Allow 3 hours before international departure. As of early 2026, US citizens require a visa for Brazil; verify current entry requirements for your nationality before travel.
For more on what to do during your layover, see the Sao Paulo layover guide.
