There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Palmas into a quick city adventure. From PMW, the Taxi / Local Bus can get you into town in around 50 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Before heading into Palmas, 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: Palmas is roughly 50 minutes from PMW via Taxi / Local Bus. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in BRL. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
The Best Way Into Palmas from PMW
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi / Local Bus | ~50 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~70 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi / Local Bus 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.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Palmas, we’d suggest Praça dos Girassóis (Sunflowers Square) and Praia da Graciosa (Graciosa Beach). Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Worth checking out if your schedule allows. You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at PMW, check out Relax in the Terminal’s Waiting Areas or Browse Local Souvenir Shops to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
In Palmas
If you make it into town, Picanha na Chapa is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Dom Barreto Restaurante e Pizzaria.
Inside PMW
If you’re staying in the terminal, Cafeteria Aeroporto PMW is your main option. Lanchonete & Salgados works too if you want something quick.
Layover Budget Breakdown
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Palmas:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $10 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $25 USD total.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Luggage Storage at PMW
Dedicated luggage storage at PMW may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Palmas’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.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at PMW for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Palmas 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 PMW.
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
Whether you spend your layover in Palmas exploring the streets or relaxing at PMW, 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.