Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Recife. Guararapes – Gilberto Freyre International 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
A few things to sort out before you leave REC:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Brazil. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Recife takes about 50 minutes by Recife Metro (Aeroporto Station). Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is BRL. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Transport from Guararapes – Gilberto Freyre International Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Guararapes – Gilberto Freyre International Airport into town:
- Recife Metro (Aeroporto Station): 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.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Recife might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$10 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$25 USD
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Recife.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Recife, here are two things worth checking out:
Boa Viagem Beach is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing.
Marco Zero Square (Recife Antigo) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Recife.
If you’d rather stay inside REC — 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:
- Praça REC Lounge
- Regional Product Shopping
Where to Grab a Meal
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Recife: Entre Amigos (Praia) and Parraxaxá. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Bonaparte or Deltaexpresso. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Luggage Storage at REC
Luggage storage is available at Landside, usually near the main entrance or arrival hall, look for ‘Guarda-Volumes’ services.. Drop your bags off early so you can explore hands-free.
Alternatively, third-party services like Bounce or Stasher can connect you with storage locations closer to wherever you’re headed in Recife.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and REC is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Recife 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.
Resting at the Airport
Long overnight layover? Your options at REC 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
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Recife count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave REC. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.