Connection between terminals at São Paulo Airport (GRU)
Guarulhos International Airport has three terminals (T1, T2, and T3) connected by free shuttle buses and internal walkways. If you have a flight connection or are changing airlines, knowing how to move quickly between sectors is key, as internal logistics can be the biggest obstacle of your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions about Inter-Terminal Transfer
- Is it free to move between terminals?
Yes, there is a free shuttle bus service between Terminals 1, 2, and 3, available from 4:00 am to 0:00 am. - Where do I take the bus?
At the arrivals level of each terminal. They are identified with the airport logo (GRU). - Can I walk from one terminal to another?
Only between Terminal 2 and 3 via an internal walkway (boarding level). Terminal 1 is separate and requires a bus. - How frequent is the bus?
Officially every 15 minutes, but travelers report waits of up to 40 minutes during peak hours. - What if I arrive at night?
Between 0:00 am and 4:00 am there are no buses. You will need to use apps like Uber or a taxi; do not attempt to walk between terminals at night for safety and distance reasons.
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Critical Points: Smart Traveler’s Manual
The CPTM Station Bottleneck
The journey between the train station and the terminals has become a major point of inefficiency. Buses often arrive full, forcing many passengers to miss several turns and risking their flight check-in.
Strategy: If you arrive by train and have a flight at T2 or T3 with a tight margin, consider taking an Uber directly from the station. You will spend a few reais but secure your flight.
Overcrowding and Bus Conditions
Users describe “dystopian” scenes with passengers squeezed like sardines and suitcases clashing. Additionally, vehicle cleanliness is often reported as poor.
Strategy: If you are traveling with children, seniors, or a lot of luggage, try to be first in line or wait for a unit that does not come from the train station, as they usually carry less load.
The T2-T3 Walk as an Alternative
Although the bus connects both, the internal walkway is often more predictable than waiting for the shuttle.
Strategy: If you are in T2 and going to T3 (or vice versa), walk. It will take you a constant 15 minutes, while the bus can take 40 minutes between waiting and the route.
Inter-Terminal Shuttle Service
- Schedule: 4:00 am to 0:00 am
- Official Frequency: Every 10 to 15 minutes
- Stops: Terminal 1 → Terminal 2 (West/East) → Terminal 3 → and return
- Average Duration: 7 to 16 minutes depending on the segment
- Accessible: Suitable for people with reduced mobility (though overcrowding makes access difficult)
🗣️ User Experience: Many travelers rate the service as “unworthy” of an international airport due to long waits and lack of vehicle maintenance.
Strategy: Do not trust signs promising 15 minutes. If you see a crowd waiting, assume it will take at least twice as long.
Internal Bus Route
One way: CPTM Station → Terminal 1 → Terminal 2 West → Terminal 3
Return: Terminal 3 → Terminal 1 → CPTM Station
Also available: CPTM → Terminal 2 East / Terminal 2 East → CPTM
Transfer Times between Terminals
| Origin → Destination | Estimated Time | Method |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal 1 → Terminal 2 | 7 minutes | Free Shuttle Bus |
| Terminal 1 → Terminal 3 | 16 minutes | Free Shuttle Bus |
| Terminal 2 → Terminal 3 | 13-15 minutes | Internal walkway (boarding level) |
| Terminal 2 → Terminal 1 | 14 minutes | Free Shuttle Bus |
| Terminal 3 → Terminal 1 | 7 minutes | Free Shuttle Bus |
| Terminal 3 → Terminal 2 | 13-15 minutes | Internal walkway (boarding level) |
Useful Tips for Connecting Passengers
- 🧳 Safety Margin: If you arrive at Terminal 3 and your domestic flight departs from terminals 1 or 2, consider at least 45 minutes for real transfer time.
- 🕓 Early Morning: Avoid transfers between terminals between midnight and 4:00 am. If you have a connection during this time, you must hire private transport.
- 👀 Signage: Look for “Transfer entre Terminais” signs. If you don’t see them, ask airline staff; information kiosks often don’t work.
Moving outside the airport? Check all transport options from GRU: buses, taxis and ride-sharing, trains, or car rental.