Cheapest time to fly to Galeão Antonio Carlos Jobim (GIG)
As a year-round destination, the cost of direct flights to Rio does not vary hugely, although there is a slight peak in February during the Mardi Gras – this is the time to keep an eye on last-minute flights. The rain falls more between December and March so avoid these dates if you dream of sunny days. With temperatures rarely dropping below 21 degrees Celsius, you won't be disappointed. Use the Netflights search facility to find the cheapest month for flights to Galeão Antonio Carlos Jobim (GIG).
Flying to Galeão Antonio Carlos Jobim (GIG)
Galeão Airport Antonio Carlos Jobim is Rio’s premier airport, located around 12 miles from the city centre. British Airways have many direct flights here from London. It is also worth checking out the non-direct flights available from other airlines, including American Airlines, Iberia, KLM and United Airlines. If you want to fly from Manchester, Air France frequently schedule non-direct flights via a brief stopover in Paris.
On arrival and getting around GIG
There are two passenger terminals at Galeão Airport, T1 and T2, which are located directly next to each other and are connected via pedestrian walkways. Whilst the airport is fairly old, it has an array of services; free Wi-Fi for one hour, 24-hour restaurants and cafes, and information desks in both terminals. The airport’s family services are fantastic: there are children’s play areas, and nurseries where families can take advantage of comfortable armchairs, baby change facilities and even bath tubs. Netflights can help you find cheap flights to Galeao Antonio Carlos Jobim (GIG) throughout the year.
Getting to the city from the airport
There are abundant transport links between Galeão Airport and the city. Our top recommendation for price and ease would be to take the BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) system from outside Terminal 2 which will take you downtown for less than five of your Brazilian real. It has its own dedicated roads allowing the bus to travel more quickly, and it links to the metro system in the city making onward travel elsewhere very easy. Alternatively, take a taxi – various cars are available outside both terminals, and the city centre is only 30 minutes away. If you would prefer to drive, pick up a car rental with Avis or Hertz at either terminal, or Thrifty from Terminal 2.
Don't Forget Before you Fly
As a British citizen, you won’t need to apply for a visa before your flights to Rio, but you will need to ensure that your passport is valid for a further six months from the date of your entry. Good news if you are looking to book some last-minute flights in 2025 / 2026. Brazil’s official currency is the real; either order some before your return flights leave, or use the ATM when you arrive.
