# Sao Paulo Airport Transfer Guide (GRU) Complete guide to Sao Paulo Guarulhos Airport transfers. Honest prices for taxis, Uber, trains, and private transfers into the city. **Airport:** GRU **City:** Sao Paulo **Country:** Brazil **URL:** https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/gru **Last updated:** 2026-03-27 --- ## Main Guide ### Quick answer Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) is about **25 km northeast of Sao Paulo city centre**. The journey takes anywhere from 30 minutes to over 90 minutes depending on traffic. A taxi or ride-app trip costs roughly **BRL 130-200** (around **EUR 22-35**). The CPTM Train Line 13 connects the airport to the city rail network for just **BRL 5.00** (under **EUR 1**). A pre-booked private transfer runs **BRL 180-300** (around **EUR 30-52**) with a fixed price regardless of traffic. GRU is Brazil's busiest airport with two main terminals (T1 and T2) connected by a free shuttle. It operates 24 hours, though services thin out between 01:00 and 05:00. 👉 AirportTransferPortal offers fixed-price transfers on this route, which removes uncertainty on arrival. --- ### What actually happens after landing International flights arrive at Terminal 2, domestic flights mostly at Terminal 1. After immigration — which can be slow, with 30-60 minutes being common for international arrivals — you collect bags and clear customs. The arrivals hall has ATMs, currency exchange booths, SIM card vendors, and car rental desks. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. The airport is large but well-signed in Portuguese and English. If you land at T2 and need to reach T1, a free inter-terminal shuttle runs every 10-15 minutes. One important detail: do not change large amounts of currency at the airport exchange booths. Their rates are poor. Use an ATM for a better deal, or change just enough to cover your immediate transfer. --- ### Transport options explained honestly | Option | Price (BRL) | Price (EUR) | Time | Notes | |--------|-------------|-------------|------|-------| | CPTM Train Line 13 | **5.00** | ~0.85 | 60-90 min total | Airport to Engenheiro Gould, transfer to Line 12 | | Airport Bus Service | **60-75** | ~10-13 | 60-90 min | Direct to Paulista, Congonhas, bus terminals | | Uber / 99 | **80-160** | ~14-28 | 30-90 min | Usually cheaper than taxis | | Metered taxi | **130-200** | ~22-35 | 30-90 min | Official ranks outside arrivals | | Private transfer | **180-300** | ~30-52 | 30-90 min | Fixed price, meet-and-greet | The train is by far the cheapest but requires a transfer and does not run 24 hours. Ride apps — Uber and 99 — are legal at GRU and the most popular choice among locals. Taxis use meters but the fare depends entirely on traffic conditions. --- ### Realistic pricing expectations Sao Paulo traffic is the single biggest variable. At 3 AM, a taxi to Avenida Paulista takes 25 minutes and costs about **BRL 130**. During Monday morning rush hour, the same trip can take 90 minutes and cost **BRL 200+** on the meter. Uber and 99 are generally 20-40% cheaper than taxis for the same route. Surge pricing during rain or rush hour narrows the gap. A typical Uber to central Sao Paulo runs **BRL 80-140** (~**EUR 14-24**). The Airport Bus Service charges fixed fares of **BRL 60-75** depending on route. It runs to key destinations including Avenida Paulista, Praca da Republica, Barra Funda bus terminal, and Congonhas domestic airport. Private transfers cost more but offer a fixed price regardless of traffic: typically **BRL 180-280** (~**EUR 30-48**) for a sedan to central Sao Paulo. --- ### Late night arrivals GRU operates around the clock, and many international flights arrive between 22:00 and 06:00. The good news is that taxis and ride apps are available 24 hours. Late-night trips are actually faster and cheaper because traffic disappears. The CPTM train does not run between approximately midnight and 04:00. Airport buses have reduced frequency after midnight. If you arrive in the early hours, a ride app or pre-booked transfer is your best option. Safety note: stick to official taxis from the airport rank or use ride apps. Do not accept rides from unofficial drivers in the arrivals hall. --- ### Families and luggage The train and bus work but are uncomfortable with heavy luggage and children, especially during peak hours when they get crowded. The train requires navigating stairs and platform transfers. Families are better served by taxis, ride apps, or private transfers. Uber and 99 cars vary in size — if you have lots of luggage, request a larger category. Private transfers can include child seats on request and the driver helps with bags. For large groups or families with 4+ bags, book a minivan transfer. A van for up to 7 passengers costs around **BRL 250-380** (~**EUR 43-66**). --- ### Where you meet the driver **Taxis:** Follow signs to the official taxi rank outside arrivals. Use only the official stands — Guarucoop and Ligue Taxi are the authorised operators. **Uber/99:** GRU has designated ride-app pickup points in the parking garage areas of both terminals. Follow signs for "App Transporte" or ask airport staff. You cannot be picked up at the arrivals curb. **Private transfers:** Drivers wait in the arrivals hall with a name sign. They will have your flight details and adjust for delays. **Airport bus:** Stops are outside both terminals, clearly signed. --- ### Decision helper **On a tight budget?** The CPTM train at **BRL 5** is unbeatable. Accept the longer journey and transfers. **Best value?** Uber or 99 — typically **BRL 80-140** to central Sao Paulo. **Want certainty?** Pre-book a private transfer with a fixed price. No meter anxiety, no surge pricing. **Arriving at 3 AM?** Ride apps or taxis are fast and cheap at night. Skip the bus and train. **Big group?** A minivan transfer splits well among 4-7 passengers. **Heading to Congonhas for a connecting flight?** The Airport Bus Service runs a direct route for **BRL 60**. 👉 This is the lowest-friction option after a long flight. --- ### Summary Guarulhos is a well-connected airport with plenty of transport options at every price point. The main challenge is Sao Paulo traffic — your transfer time and taxi cost can double during rush hours. Ride apps offer the best everyday value, the train is perfect for budget travellers who do not mind the extra time, and private transfers give peace of mind with fixed pricing. Whatever you choose, avoid the currency exchange counters and skip the unofficial taxi touts. --- ## Frequently Asked Questions **Q: How far is Guarulhos Airport from Sao Paulo centre?** About **25 km**, but travel time ranges from **30 minutes to over 90 minutes** depending on traffic. **Q: Is Uber available at Guarulhos Airport?** Yes. Both Uber and 99 operate at GRU with designated pickup points in the parking areas. Follow signs for "App Transporte." **Q: How much is a taxi from GRU to the city centre?** A metered taxi costs approximately **BRL 130-200** (~**EUR 22-35**) depending on traffic and your exact destination. **Q: Is there a train from Guarulhos Airport?** Yes. CPTM Line 13 (Jade) connects the airport to the city rail network. The fare is **BRL 5.00** and you transfer at Engenheiro Gould to Line 12. **Q: How do I get from GRU to Congonhas Airport?** The Airport Bus Service runs a direct route between the two airports for about **BRL 60**. A taxi or Uber costs **BRL 100-180** depending on traffic. **Q: Is Guarulhos Airport safe at night?** The airport itself is safe with security present 24 hours. Use only official taxis or ride apps. Do not accept rides from unofficial drivers. **Q: What currency should I use for airport transfers?** Brazilian Real (BRL). Some private transfer companies accept payment in USD or EUR, but taxis and ride apps use BRL only. **Q: Does the airport train run 24 hours?** No. CPTM Line 13 operates from approximately 04:00 to midnight. Outside those hours, use taxis, ride apps, or pre-booked transfers. **Q: Which terminal do international flights use at GRU?** Most international flights arrive at **Terminal 2**. Domestic flights use **Terminal 1**. A free shuttle connects both terminals. **Q: How much is a private transfer from GRU?** A private sedan transfer to central Sao Paulo costs approximately **BRL 180-280** (~**EUR 30-48**) with a fixed price regardless of traffic. --- ## Additional Guides ### Late Night Arrivals at Guarulhos Airport **URL:** https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/gru/late-night Many international flights arrive at GRU between 22:00 and 06:00, so the airport is well-equipped for late-night passengers. The terminal stays open and staffed around the clock. The upside of arriving late is that Sao Paulo traffic vanishes — your ride to the city will be fast and cheap. ## What is available after midnight | Option | Available? | Notes | |--------|-----------|-------| | Metered taxi | Yes, 24 hours | Official ranks always staffed | | Uber / 99 | Yes, 24 hours | Fewer drivers, slightly longer waits | | Private transfer | Yes (if pre-booked) | Most reliable option | | Airport bus | Reduced service | Check schedule, some routes stop | | CPTM train | No | Stops around midnight, resumes ~04:00 | ## The advantages of arriving late Sao Paulo after midnight is a different city. The roads that take 90 minutes in rush hour take 25 minutes at 2 AM. A metered taxi that costs **BRL 200** during the day might cost **BRL 120-140** at night simply because the meter runs for less time. Uber fares drop too — expect **BRL 70-110** (~**EUR 12-19**) to central Sao Paulo. ## Safety considerations The airport itself is safe at all hours with security and police present. For your onward journey: - Use only official taxi ranks (Guarucoop or Ligue Taxi) — never accept offers from people approaching you in the terminal - Uber and 99 are safe, but wait in the terminal until your driver arrives at the pickup point - Keep your phone and valuables discreet when walking to the parking garage pickup area - If taking a pre-booked transfer, the driver meets you inside arrivals — the safest option ## What is closed Some restaurants and shops close after the last domestic flights, but basic food options and ATMs remain available in both terminals through the night. Currency exchange may have reduced hours. The CPTM train stops running around midnight and resumes around 04:00. If your flight arrives in this window, the train is not an option. ## Pre-booking for peace of mind A pre-booked transfer at **BRL 180-280** (~**EUR 30-48**) eliminates all uncertainty. The driver tracks your flight, waits in arrivals, and you are in a car within minutes of exiting customs. For first-time visitors arriving at 3 AM in a city they do not know, this is the most comfortable choice. ## Overnight hotels near GRU If you have an early morning connection or prefer not to drive into the city at night, several hotel chains operate within 10-15 minutes of the airport in Guarulhos city, from about **BRL 200-500** per night. There is also a transit hotel available inside the terminal for short stays. --- ### Taxi vs Private Transfer from Guarulhos Airport **URL:** https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/gru/taxi-vs-transfer Both taxis and private transfers are widely used at GRU. The key differences are pricing structure, comfort level, and the ride-app middle ground that most locals prefer. ## Side-by-side comparison | Factor | Metered taxi | Uber / 99 | Private transfer | |--------|-------------|-----------|------------------| | Price to centre | **BRL 130-200** (~EUR 22-35) | **BRL 80-160** (~EUR 14-28) | **BRL 180-300** (fixed, ~EUR 30-52) | | Booking | No booking | App | Pre-booked | | Meeting point | Taxi rank | Parking garage pickup | Arrivals hall | | Child seat | Not available | Not available | On request | | Luggage help | Limited | Varies | Always included | | Price certainty | Low (meter + traffic) | Medium (surge pricing) | High (fixed) | ## The traffic factor This is where the comparison gets interesting. Sao Paulo traffic can double a metered taxi fare. A trip that costs **BRL 130** at night might cost **BRL 200** in rush hour because the meter keeps ticking. Private transfers charge the same regardless — you pay **BRL 180-280** whether the trip takes 30 minutes or 90. Uber and 99 sit in between. Their fares are calculated on time and distance, so traffic increases the cost, but less dramatically than a taxi meter. Surge pricing during rain or peak hours adds another variable. ## When taxis work fine If you arrive at a quiet time — late night, midday on weekends — taxis are simple and cheap enough. Walk to the official rank, get in, and go. Just use the official Guarucoop or Ligue Taxi stands and never accept rides from touts inside the terminal. ## When ride apps are better For most situations, Uber or 99 costs 20-40% less than a taxi. The apps show an estimated fare upfront. The downside is navigating to the ride-app pickup zone in the parking area, which can be confusing on your first visit. ## When to pre-book a transfer A private transfer makes sense when you want zero surprises. The driver meets you in arrivals, helps with luggage, and the price is locked in. This is particularly valuable during rush hours (07:00-10:00 and 17:00-20:00) when a metered taxi could cost more than the transfer. Families with children who need car seats should book a transfer — neither taxis nor ride-app cars provide them. ## Our take For everyday trips, Uber or 99 offers the best value. For guaranteed pricing and a meet-and-greet experience, a private transfer is worth the premium. --- ### Guarulhos Airport with Family and Kids **URL:** https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/gru/family-and-kids GRU is a large, busy airport but it handles families reasonably well. The terminals have the basics — changing facilities, food options, and accessible paths. The challenge is the onward journey into Sao Paulo, where traffic and transport choices matter more than usual when kids are involved. ## Inside the terminal Both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 have baby-changing rooms, family restrooms, and food courts with decent options. Free Wi-Fi keeps older kids entertained while you sort out transport. If you need to buy nappies, water, or snacks, there are convenience stores in both terminals. If arriving internationally at T2 and connecting to a domestic flight at T1, the free shuttle runs every 10-15 minutes. Strollers fit on the shuttle without issue. ## Getting into the city with kids | Option | Family rating | Price (BRL) | Price (EUR) | |--------|--------------|-------------|-------------| | Private transfer with child seat | Best | **200-300** | ~35-52 | | Uber / 99 (larger car) | Good | **100-160** | ~17-28 | | Airport bus | OK for older kids | **60-75** | ~10-13 | | CPTM train | Not recommended | **5.00** | ~0.85 | ## Child seats Brazilian law requires child restraints for children under 7.5 years. Regular taxis and ride-app cars do not carry them, and enforcement is inconsistent. If your child needs a seat, **book a private transfer and request one at booking time**. Specify the child's age and weight for the correct type. Bringing your own car seat from the flight is another option. Most airlines check them for free. ## Why the train is tough with kids The CPTM Line 13 is cheap but impractical for families. It involves platform transfers, stairs, and crowded carriages during peak hours. Managing luggage, a stroller, and small children through the Sao Paulo Metro system is stressful even for locals. ## The traffic reality Sao Paulo rush hours (07:00-10:00 and 17:00-20:00) can turn a 30-minute drive into 90 minutes. Children in car seats for 90 minutes of stop-and-go traffic is not enjoyable. If possible, time your airport departure to avoid peak hours. Late-night arrivals are actually ideal for families — short drive, light traffic, kids can sleep in the car. ## Tips for families - Book a private transfer with a child seat for stress-free door-to-door service - If using Uber, request a larger vehicle category for more space - Pack snacks and entertainment for potential long drives in traffic - Immigration at GRU can take 30-60 minutes — have something to keep kids occupied - The airport bus is manageable with older children but not with strollers and heavy luggage --- ### How Much Does It Cost to Get from Guarulhos Airport to Sao Paulo? **URL:** https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/gru/cost-to-city The 25 km trip from GRU to central Sao Paulo can cost anywhere from **BRL 5** to **BRL 300** depending on your transport choice and traffic conditions. ## Price comparison | Transport | Price (BRL) | Price (EUR) | Time | Best for | |-----------|-------------|-------------|------|----------| | CPTM Train Line 13 | **5.00** | ~0.85 | 60-90 min | Budget travellers | | Airport bus | **60-75** | ~10-13 | 60-90 min | Direct to key areas | | Uber / 99 | **80-160** | ~14-28 | 30-90 min | Best value for most | | Metered taxi | **130-200** | ~22-35 | 30-90 min | No app needed | | Private transfer | **180-300** | ~30-52 | 30-90 min | Fixed price, comfort | ## Why the huge price range? Sao Paulo traffic is the answer. The same taxi ride that costs **BRL 130** at midnight costs **BRL 200+** during morning rush hour because the meter keeps running in gridlock. This is why many travellers prefer fixed-price options. ## The train option CPTM Line 13 (Jade) is absurdly cheap at **BRL 5.00**. From the airport station, you ride to Engenheiro Gould and transfer to Line 12 (Sapphire), which connects to the broader Metro network. The total journey to Paulista takes about 75-90 minutes including transfers. The train runs from roughly 04:00 to midnight. The downsides: it is slow, requires transfers with luggage, and gets packed during rush hours. ## Ride apps — the local favourite Uber and 99 are how most Paulistanos get to and from the airport. Typical fares to Avenida Paulista run **BRL 80-130**, though surge pricing during rain or rush hour can push this to **BRL 160**. Request pickup from the designated ride-app area in the parking garage. ## Airport bus The Airport Bus Service runs comfortable coaches to major destinations: Avenida Paulista, Praca da Republica, Barra Funda, Tiete bus terminal, and Congonhas Airport. Fixed fares of **BRL 60-75** make this a solid middle-ground option. ## Private transfers A sedan transfer costs **BRL 180-280** (~**EUR 30-48**) with a guaranteed fixed price. The driver meets you in arrivals and handles luggage. No meter anxiety, no hunting for the ride-app pickup point, no surge pricing. ## Bottom line For most travellers, Uber or 99 offers the best balance of price and convenience. The train is great if you want to save money and have time. Pre-book a transfer if you want zero uncertainty about the cost. --- ## Related Pages - [Main arrival guide](https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/gru) - [Late night arrivals](https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/gru/late-night) - [Taxi vs transfer](https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/gru/taxi-vs-transfer) - [Family & kids](https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/gru/family-and-kids) - [Cost to city](https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/gru/cost-to-city) --- ## Check before you land 👉 This route is actively served by AirportTransferPortal with fixed-price booking available before arrival. Check real vehicles and prices before your flight. Booking takes a few minutes and ensures someone is waiting when you arrive. --- ## Operational Note This guide reflects real operational conditions, pricing ranges, and traveler experience at Sao Paulo (GRU). Transfer availability is supported by AirportTransferPortal's verified supplier network. --- ## Attribution Published by AirportTransferPortal (airporttransferportal.com), a global airport transfer marketplace operated by Funny Tourism Ltd.