Rio de Janeiro Airport (GIG) Guide

The BRT TransCarioca bus rapid transit line connects Galeão Airport to Madureira, where you can transfer to the Metro, and continues on to Barra da Tijuca. It’s a budget-friendly option for reaching other parts of Rio. 

Short-term and long-term parking is available on-site at Rio de Janeiro Airport. Reservations can be made through the airport’s website for the best rates. 

Terminals 1 and 2 at Rio de Janeiro Airport are connected, and transfers between the two are straightforward. Follow the signage within the airport to move between terminals. 

Official taxi counters, operated by Cootramo, are located in the arrivals area and offer set-fare journeys into the city. App-based ride-share services such as Uber and Cabify are available from designated pick-up zones at Departures Level 2. 

Car rental companies are available at Rio de Janeiro Airport. Talk to your Travel Expert about organising car hire for your trip or book it yourself online before you leave. 

A number of airlines fly into and out of Rio de Janeiro Airport, including GOL, LATAM, Azul, Air France, KLM, Lufthansa, TAP Air Portugal, Emirates, American Airlines, Delta and many more. GIG connects Rio to major domestic cities as well as international destinations across the Americas, Europe and the Middle East. 

As a general rule, you should aim to arrive at Rio de Janeiro Airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure time for domestic flights and three hours before international flights. This should give you plenty of time to complete check-in, drop your bags and pass through security. Check with the airport, airline or your Travel Expert directly for more information on recommended arrival times. 

There are plenty of transport options available from Rio de Janeiro Airport, including the BRT TransCarioca bus rapid transit with connections to the Metro, official set-fare taxis, app-based ride-share services, and car rental. The BRT is the most affordable option, while taxis and ride-share offer a more direct journey into central Rio. 

Yes, Rio de Janeiro Airport has several lounges in Terminal 2, including the Plaza Premium Lounge in domestic departures, international departures and arrivals, plus GOL Smiles Lounges for both domestic and international passengers. Amenities include food, drinks, Wi-Fi and in some cases showers. Access may be possible depending on your ticket class, lounge membership or by purchasing a day pass. Check with the lounge directly or talk to your Travel Expert for more information. 

While there are no hotels within the terminal itself, the Plaza Premium Lounge in Terminal 2 operates 24 hours and offers shower facilities, making it a useful option for passengers with long layovers. There are also several hotels located close to the airport for overnight stays. 

You may be able to earn loyalty points or rewards on eligible flights to or from Acapulco Airport booked with us. When booking online, you’ll see a place to add your loyalty program or frequent flyer membership details if this is available, or you can ask your Travel Expert for help when booking in-store. If the booking meets your program’s requirements, you’ll earn points! For more information, check with your specific loyalty program and see our Booking Terms and Conditions. Keen for even more travel perks? Subscribe to our email list for birthday surprises, competition entries, exclusive deals and VIP pre-sale access to the hottest holiday savings around.  

Check-in times and baggage rules for flights departing from Rio de Janeiro Airport will vary depending on your ticket, so make sure you confirm with your airline in advance. Remember, it’s often possible to check in online or via your airline’s app, which can help save time at the airport. For more information or help finding your check-in times and baggage limits, talk to your Travel Expert. 

Rio de Janeiro Airport has two terminals. Terminal 1 primarily handles domestic flights, while Terminal 2 serves both domestic and international services. Always check your airline’s designated terminal before heading to the airport. 

Yes, Rio de Janeiro Airport offers both short-term and long-term parking on-site. Rates vary by duration, and you can reserve a spot in advance through the airport’s website for the best prices. 

Rio de Janeiro Airport offers family-friendly facilities including baby changing rooms, nursing rooms and children’s play areas within the terminals. A chapel and prayer room are also available. 

Keen to pick up a last-minute souvenir at Rio de Janeiro Airport? You’ll find a range of duty-free shops, retail stores, restaurants and bars across both terminals. Terminal 2’s international departures area has a particularly strong selection. Check the airport’s website for an up-to-date list of stores and their opening information. 

While last-minute sale fares to and from Rio de Janeiro Airport may become available, you’ll generally find it pays to plan ahead, especially if you’re booking international flights. As a rough guide, we recommend booking domestic flights three to six months in advance and international flights six to nine months before you plan to fly. When it comes to balancing flexible travel dates with the biggest savings, this should give you the best of both worlds!