A long layover in Sorocaba is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Sorocaba Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 50 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Before You Step Outside SOD
Before heading into Sorocaba, 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: Sorocaba is roughly 50 minutes from SOD via Taxi/Ride-share. 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.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Sorocaba:
Start with Quinzinho de Barros Municipal Zoo. Worth checking out if your schedule allows. Then, if time allows, make your way to Sorocaba Botanical Garden. Nice green space that’s easy to enjoy without a tight schedule.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at SOD, check out Aircraft Spotting Point or Relaxing Terminal Waiting Area to keep yourself occupied.
Food & Dining Options
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Sorocaba: Padaria Real (Downtown) and Costelaria O Costelão. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Snack Bar or Pilot’s Coffee Corner. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Getting to Sorocaba from the Airport
From SOD, the Taxi/Ride-share gets you to Sorocaba in around 50 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 70 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi/Ride-share offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What to Budget for Your Sorocaba Side Trip
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Sorocaba, budget roughly $27 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $11 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $6 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.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at SOD may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Sorocaba’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 SOD for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Sorocaba 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.
Taking a Break at SOD
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at SOD, 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.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Sorocaba doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 50 minutes from SOD, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.