A layover in Ponta Grossa is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Ponta Grossa Airport – Comandante Antonio Amilton Beraldo sits just 60 minutes from the city center by Taxi or Ride-share (e.g., Uber/99), 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.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Three things to verify before you walk out of PGZ:
- 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 or Ride-share (e.g., Uber/99), 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.
What to See and Do in Ponta Grossa
For a layover visit to Ponta Grossa, we’d suggest Catedral Sant’Ana and Parque Ambiental Governador Manoel Ribas. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside PGZ, you can spend time at Airport Waiting Area or try Airport Lanchonete. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Eating Well on a Ponta Grossa Layover
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Ponta Grossa: Churrascaria Estrela de Prata and Madero Container Ponta Grossa. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Aeroporto PGZ Coffee & Snacks or Lanchonete Express PGZ. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
The most straightforward way into Ponta Grossa is the Taxi or Ride-share (e.g., Uber/99), which takes about 60 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 80 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi or Ride-share (e.g., Uber/99) is usually the smarter call.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Ponta Grossa, budget roughly $25 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $10 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
What to Do With Your Bags
Traveling light makes a layover outing much easier. At PGZ, you’ll find bag storage at No dedicated luggage storage or lockers are available at this small regional airport..
Tip: store your bags as soon as you clear arrivals to maximize your free time. If the airport options don’t work for you, check online luggage storage platforms for alternatives near the city center.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and PGZ is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Ponta Grossa 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
Long overnight layover? Your options at PGZ include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Brazil also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Ponta Grossa with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Ponta Grossa 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.