Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Rio De Janeiro gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from GIG to the city takes roughly 120 minutes by BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) + Metro, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Before You Step Outside GIG
A few things to sort out before you leave GIG:
- 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 Rio De Janeiro takes about 120 minutes by BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) + Metro. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is BRL. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some BRL in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from GIG to Rio De Janeiro
The most straightforward way into Rio De Janeiro is the BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) + Metro, which takes about 120 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 140 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) + Metro is usually the smarter call.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Quick budget math for your Rio De Janeiro layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$7 |
| Meal | ~$14 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$31 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Storing Your Luggage at Rio Galeão â Tom Jobim International Airport
Traveling light makes a layover outing much easier. At GIG, you’ll find bag storage at Luggage storage (Malex Guarda Volumes) is available in Terminal 2, near the arrivals area..
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.
What’s Worth Seeing in Rio De Janeiro
If you head into Rio De Janeiro, here are two things worth checking out:
Maracanã Stadium (Exterior View) is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. On a clear day, the views alone justify the detour.
Quinta da Boa Vista Park is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside GIG, you can spend time at Plaza Premium Lounge or try Dufry Duty Free. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Eating Well on a Rio De Janeiro Layover
- In the city: Confeitaria Colombo and Bar e Restaurante do Filé are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Rio De Janeiro.
- At the airport: Palaphita Kitch and Viena will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Sleep & Lounge Options at GIG
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at GIG, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at GIG, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Rio De Janeiro 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.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Rio De Janeiro 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.