Pros and Cons of São Paulo Guarulhos Airport: Analysis based on real experiences
In this article, we analyze the main advantages and disadvantages of Guarulhos Airport, based on real passenger opinions collected from platforms such as TripAdvisor, Google Maps, and Social Media, in addition to official airport sources.
Frequently Asked Questions about the GRU experience
- Is it true that lines are very long?
It depends on the terminal and the time. Terminal 2 is usually more crowded at security, while Terminal 3 has faster processes but much longer walks. - Does the free Wi-Fi work well?
It is unstable. Although official information mentions a longer time, users report that after 2 hours the connection drops or requires payment. - How do I move between terminals at night?
Be careful: the free bus does not operate from 0:00 am to 4:00 am. During that time, you must use a taxi or Uber.
Critical Points: Smart Traveler’s Manual
The Terminal 2 Bottleneck
T2 handles most domestic flights, and its infrastructure feels overwhelmed. Bathrooms are often dirty, and there are few working outlets.
Strategy: If you have a long layover, try to spend time in Terminal 3 (connected by a walkway), which is much more modern and quieter, and return to T2 only for your boarding.
Curb Fines Alert
The Civil Guard (GCM) immediately fines any vehicle that stops for more than 2 minutes to pick up passengers.
Strategy: Do not request your Uber or call your ride until you are physically on the curb with your bags. It is better to pay for an hour of parking than a costly fine.
✅ Pros of Guarulhos Airport
🌎 Excellent International Connectivity
Guarulhos has direct flights to more than 100 destinations in the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Africa. It is the main hub for LATAM, in addition to having significant operations from Gol, Azul, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa, Air France, Turkish Airlines, among many others.
🛍️ Variety of Shops and Duty-Free Options
Passengers highlight the wide variety of shops in the three terminals, especially in Terminal 3. There are clothing stores, souvenirs, electronics, pharmacies, and duty-free zones open 24 hours in both international arrivals and departures.
🗣️ User Experience: Smart travelers recommend Carrefour Express in T2 to buy snacks and drinks at normal supermarket prices, avoiding inflated boarding area prices.
🍽️ Good Dining Options
According to reviews on Google and TripAdvisor, the airport has alternatives for all budgets, from international chains like McDonald’s and Starbucks to restaurants like Viena, Heineken Lounge, or 365 Deli. There are also places open all night.
🗣️ User Experience: Service at Divino Fogão (T2) and Paris 6 (T3) is highlighted. However, be careful at places like Pecorino, where they charge a R$7 “table fee” just for sitting down.
🛋️ High-Level VIP Lounges
GRU offers more than 15 VIP lounges, several of them available 24 hours, with access via credit cards, memberships, or direct payment. Highlights include the LATAM VIP Lounge in T3, the W Premium Lounge (present in all terminals), and the VIP Lounge Mastercard Black. They offer showers, hot meals, drinks, and space to rest or work.
🗣️ User Experience: The LATAM lounge is considered the best. Conversely, the GOL Smiles lounge receives many complaints for lack of maintenance and low-quality food.
🚖 Varied Access and Public Transport Available
The airport has a good highway connection, Uber/Cabify options, executive buses, and public transport with integration to the metro via the Aeroporto-Guarulhos station. There is also car rental service and covered and uncovered parking lots.
❌ Cons of Guarulhos Airport
🚶♂️ Long Walks between Gates and Terminals
Many passengers criticize that the walking distances within the airport, especially in Terminal 3, can be extensive. They also point out that conveyor belts are not always working.
🗣️ User Experience: Gates 311 to 320 in T3 are “remote,” which involves going downstairs and taking a bus to the plane, which is very frustrating if traveling with a lot of luggage.
⌛ Slow Security and Migration Controls
One of the most common complaints is the delay in security and migration controls, especially on international flights. It is recommended to arrive at least 3 hours in advance for travel outside the country.
🧭 Confusing Signage and Limited Guidance
Some users express that signs inside the airport are not always clear, and information may only be in Portuguese. This can cause confusion for foreign or transit passengers.
💸 High Prices in Restaurants and Shops
Eating or shopping in Guarulhos can be expensive. For example, a combo at a fast-food restaurant can exceed R$60, and basic products like water or snacks are more expensive than in the city. Passengers recommend buying essentials before arriving.
📶 Limited or Interrupted Wi-Fi
While GRU offers 4 hours of free Wi-Fi, many travelers mention that the connection can be unstable or slow, especially in crowded areas.
🗣️ User Experience: The reported reality is that free Wi-Fi usually lasts only 2 hours stably. The paid service (R$50) has also received criticism for constant drops.
💡 Tips to Get the Most Out of GRU
- ✅ Free Water: Pass an empty bottle through security and fill it at the fountains near the bathrooms.
- ✅ Phone Charging: In T2, prioritize the Heineken Bar to find outlets that actually work.
- ✅ Luggage: Use Protec Bag service if you are concerned about luggage handling.
📌 Conclusion: An airport with strengths, but also challenges
Guarulhos is a modern, functional airport with excellent connectivity, ideal for both domestic and international flights. However, its main areas for improvement include signage, wait times, and high prices.
If you travel informed and with the right preparation, your experience can be very positive. Have a good trip! ✈️