Uberlandia is a vibrant city in Minas Gerais, Brazil, known for its modern infrastructure, friendly locals, and growing cultural scene. Whether you have a short connection or an extended layover, this guide will help you make the most of your time at UDI airport and in the city.
Before You Leave the Airport
Essential Information
| Visa Requirements | Check IATA Travel Centre for Brazil visa requirements based on your nationality |
| Language | Portuguese. Download a translation app (Google Translate, Deepl) before landing |
| Currency | Brazilian Real (BRL). Use ATMs or a Wise/Revolut card for best exchange rates – avoid airport currency counters |
| Time Zone | BrasÃlia Time (BRT), UTC-3 |
| Airport Code | UDI (Uberlandia International Airport) |
Getting Around
For specific transit options from UDI airport to the city center, check the official airport website. Common options in Brazilian airports include:
- Taxis: Available at the airport exit; agree on fare or use a meter
- Ride-sharing: Uber and local apps may be available
- Public transport: Buses connect the airport to the city (check current routes on arrival)
- Airport transfers: Pre-book if you want guaranteed transportation
Pro tip: Always factor in immigration and security time when calculating if you can leave the airport. For international connections, budget at least 1 hour for immigration alone.
What to Do During Your Layover
Short Layover (2-4 hours)
Stay near the airport or inside the terminal. Use this time to:
- Refresh at airport facilities (restrooms, water fountains)
- Grab a meal or snack (note: airport food is 2-3x more expensive than city prices)
- Charge your devices
- Use airport WiFi to check your next flight status
- Rest in a quiet corner if available
Medium Layover (4-8 hours)
You have time to explore the city center. Consider:
- City center walk: Uberlandia’s downtown has shops, cafes, and local restaurants
- Eat in the city: Much cheaper and better quality than airport food
- Shopping: Local markets and malls for souvenirs
- Rest: If you need sleep, look for nearby hotels offering hourly rates
Important: Plan to return to the airport at least 2-3 hours before your next international flight (1 hour before domestic flights).
Long Layover (8+ hours)
You have a full day to explore Uberlandia. Highlights include:
- Cultural sites: Museums and local attractions in the city center
- Parks: Green spaces for a relaxing walk
- Local cuisine: Try traditional Brazilian dishes at local restaurants
- Shopping districts: Browse local shops and markets
- Rest: Book a hotel room for a few hours if you need proper sleep
Luggage Storage & Rest Options
If you’re leaving the airport with luggage, consider these options:
- Luggage storage services: Bounce, Stasher, or LuggageHero partner with local businesses near airports. Typical cost: $5-10 per bag per day
- Airport lockers: Check availability at UDI; typically more expensive than third-party services
- Rest options: For overnight layovers, book a hotel room or check SleepingInAirports.net for airport rest areas
Quick Tips for Your UDI Layover
- Download offline maps: Use Google Maps or Maps.me before landing – airport WiFi can be unreliable
- Pack a layover bag: Keep snacks, entertainment, a change of clothes, and toiletries in your carry-on for easy access
- Stay hydrated: Bring an empty water bottle and fill it after security to help manage jet lag
- Get an eSIM: Services like Airalo or Holafly provide instant data without hunting for WiFi
- Share your location: If exploring solo, share your location with a trusted contact for safety
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave UDI airport during a layover?
Yes, you can leave the airport during a layover if you have enough time. However, you must account for immigration (1+ hour), security on return (30-45 minutes), and travel time to/from the city. For international connections, we recommend at least 6 hours total layover time to comfortably explore the city. Always check your visa requirements before leaving.
What is there to do at UDI during a layover?
If staying in the airport, you can rest, eat, shop, and use WiFi. If leaving the airport, Uberlandia offers city center exploration, local restaurants, shopping districts, parks, and cultural attractions. The amount you can do depends on your layover length – short layovers are best spent resting near the terminal, while longer layovers allow for city exploration.
How long of a layover do I need at UDI?
For domestic connections: 60 minutes minimum. For international connections: 2-3 hours minimum (accounting for immigration and security). To explore the city: 4+ hours. For a full day experience: 8+ hours. Always add extra time as a buffer for unexpected delays.
Are there lounges at UDI?
Lounge availability at UDI is limited. Check with your airline about lounge access included with your ticket. If not included, you can purchase day passes from major airlines (typically $39-59) or get access through Priority Pass (available with some premium credit cards).
Is there luggage storage at UDI?
Check with the airport directly for locker availability. For a more affordable option, use Bounce or Stasher, which partner with local businesses near the airport at $5-10 per bag per day – often cheaper than airport lockers.
Plan Your Perfect Layover
Every layover is different. Use the Yopki layover calculator to determine exactly how much time you have and get personalized recommendations for your UDI layover.
Safe travels!