There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Bauru into a quick city adventure. From BAU, the Taxi / Local Bus can get you into town in around 60 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Three things to verify before you walk out of BAU:
- Can you legally enter Brazil? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 60-minute journey each way by Taxi / Local Bus, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the BRL. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
The Best Way Into Bauru from BAU
You have two main options for getting from Bauru Airport into town:
- Taxi / Local Bus: About 60 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 80 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Bag Storage Near BAU
Luggage storage options at BAU can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Bauru for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Bauru might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$9 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$24 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Bauru, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Exploring Bauru on a Layover
For a layover visit to Bauru, we’d suggest Parque Vitória Régia and Calçadão da Batista (Pedestrian Street). Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Bauru. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at BAU, check out Aeroporto Estadual de Bauru Waiting Area or Aircraft Spotting & Runway Views to keep yourself occupied.
Food & Dining Options
In Bauru
If you make it into town, Pastelaria da Torre is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Restaurante da Fazenda.
Inside BAU
If you’re staying in the terminal, Lanchonete do Aeroporto is your main option. Café & Salgados Stand works too if you want something quick.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at BAU for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Bauru or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Resting at the Airport
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at BAU.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Bauru doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 60 minutes from BAU, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.