Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Uberaba. Mário de Almeida Franco Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 40 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave UBA:
- 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 Uberaba takes about 40 minutes by Local Bus/Taxi. 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.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Uberaba, we’d suggest Complexo Cultural e CientÃfico de Peirópolis and Mercado Municipal de Uberaba. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Worth checking out if your schedule allows. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
If you’d rather stay inside UBA — 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:
- Waiting Area with Wi-Fi
- Airport Convenience Store
Food & Dining Options
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Uberaba: Churrascaria Zebu and Restaurante Fogão de Lenha (Pátio Uberaba). Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Lanchonete do Aeroporto UBA or Cafeteria Express. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Bus/Taxi | ~40 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~60 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Local Bus/Taxi 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.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Quick budget math for your Uberaba layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$10 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$25 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Storing Your Luggage at Mário de Almeida Franco Airport
Specific locker facilities at UBA aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Uberaba itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at UBA for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Uberaba 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.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at UBA 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
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Uberaba 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.