A layover in Campos is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Bartolomeu Lisandro Airport sits just 50 minutes from the city center by Local Bus / Taxi, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Three things to verify before you walk out of CAW:
- 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 50-minute journey each way by Local Bus / Taxi, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the BRL. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some BRL in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Spend Your Time in Campos
If you head into Campos, here are two things worth checking out:
Catedral BasÃlica do SantÃssimo Salvador is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Jardim do Liceu is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
If you’d rather stay inside CAW — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Main Terminal Waiting Area
- Aeroporto Newsstand & Snacks
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Bartolomeu Lisandro Airport into town:
- Local Bus / Taxi: About 50 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 70 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.
Food & Dining Options
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Campos: Picanha na Tábua and Mamma Mia Restaurante e Pizzaria. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Lanchonete do Aeroporto CAW or . Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Money & Budget Tips
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Campos might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$6 USD
- A meal: ~$12 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$28 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at CAW for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Campos 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.
Luggage Storage Options
Luggage storage options at CAW 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 Campos for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Taking a Break at CAW
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 CAW.
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 Campos with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Campos may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.