Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Campina Grande. Presidente João Suassuna Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 50 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Before heading into Campina Grande, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Brazil vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Campina Grande is roughly 50 minutes from CPV via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
What’s Worth Seeing in Campina Grande
For a layover visit to Campina Grande, we’d suggest Parque do Povo and Açude Velho (Old Dam). 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 Campina Grande. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at CPV, check out Airport Free Wi-Fi & Seating or Airport Convenience Shop to keep yourself occupied.
Getting to Campina Grande from the Airport
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| local transport | ~50 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~70 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the local transport is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Food Worth Trying
- In the city: Mocidade da Carne de Sol and Churrascaria Novo Rancho are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Campina Grande.
- At the airport: Lanchonete Sabor Paraibano and Café & Pão Airport will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
What to Budget for Your Campina Grande Side Trip
Quick budget math for your Campina Grande layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in Campina Grande, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at CPV, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Campina Grande itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Brazil that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Storing Your Luggage at Presidente João Suassuna Airport
Dedicated luggage storage at CPV may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Campina Grande’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, CPV has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Campina Grande genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.