Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Belem. Val de Cans/Júlio Cezar Ribeiro International Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 90 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Before You Step Outside BEL
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at BEL:
First, verify that you can enter Brazil — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Bus services (e.g., Linha Aeroporto-Presidente Vargas) and Taxis/Ride-share apps takes about 90 minutes into Belem, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — BRL is the currency here. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Getting from BEL to Belem
From BEL, the Bus services (e.g., Linha Aeroporto-Presidente Vargas) and Taxis/Ride-share apps gets you to Belem in around 90 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 110 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Bus services (e.g., Linha Aeroporto-Presidente Vargas) and Taxis/Ride-share apps offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
If you head into Belem, here are two things worth checking out:
Ver-o-Peso Market (Mercado Ver-o-Peso) is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
Estação das Docas is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside BEL, you can spend time at Latitude Lounge Belém or try Dufry Duty-Free. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
In Belem
If you make it into town, Remanso do Peixe is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Roxy Bar e Restaurante.
Inside BEL
If you’re staying in the terminal, Bob’s is your main option. Grão Espresso works too if you want something quick.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Quick budget math for your Belem layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$9 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$24 |
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Belem.
Where to Leave Your Bags
You can store your luggage at Not widely available within the terminal. Inquire with airline counters for potential options.. Rates typically depend on bag size and duration.
If the airport lockers are full or inconveniently located, services like Bounce and Stasher list verified storage spots in and around Belem as well.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and BEL is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Belem and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at BEL, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Belem exploring the streets or relaxing at BEL, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.