Complete guide: discover the best of Viracopos Airport

Introduction

Welcome to our complete guide to Viracopos International Airport, in Campinas, São Paulo. Known for its efficiency and modern infrastructure, Viracopos is one of Brazil's main airports and an important logistics hub. In this article you will find everything you need to make the most of your time there.

The history of Viracopos Airport

Opening and growth

Viracopos International Airport opened in 1960 and has played a decisive part in Brazilian aviation ever since. Originally designed to be São Paulo's main airport, Viracopos became a major centre for cargo flights and, more recently, for commercial passenger flights.

Modernisation and expansion

In recent years the airport has gone through significant expansion and modernisation. In 2012 a new passenger terminal opened, raising capacity and improving facilities to meet growing demand.

Location and access

Geography and climate

Viracopos sits roughly 20 km from the centre of Campinas and around 100 km from São Paulo. Campinas has a tropical highland climate, with hot humid summers and dry mild winters, which makes the region pleasant to travel to all year round.

Public transport

The airport is well served by an efficient public transport network. Several bus routes connect it to Campinas and other nearby cities. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are readily available as well.

Car rental

For anyone who prefers more freedom and convenience, Viracopos offers car rental from well-known companies such as Localiza, Movida and Unidas, all with desks in the passenger terminal.

Airport facilities

Terminals

Viracopos Airport has one modern main terminal serving both domestic and international flights. It is equipped with a wide range of passenger services and facilities.

Food and shopping

Viracopos offers a variety of dining options, from cafés and fast food to more refined restaurants. There are also several shops, duty-free included, where passengers can buy Brazilian and international brands.

VIP lounges

For anyone looking for more comfort, the airport has VIP lounges offering exclusive services such as Wi-Fi, complimentary drinks and snacks, rest areas and showers.

Parking

Viracopos Airport offers several parking options for different needs. These are the main ones:

• The multi-storey car park, the official one: attached to Terminal 1, with covered spots and charges by the hour and by the day. Ideal for short stays.
• Garageinn, a Movepark partner: 1.0 km from the terminal, with a stated 3-minute transfer.
• Virapark, a Movepark partner: 3.7 km away, with covered spots, a van every 15 minutes and R$ 24.90 a day from 7 days, the lowest total among the Movepark partners in this location as queried on 28 August 2026. The full comparison is in the Viracopos price guide.

Travel tips

Check-in and baggage

Checking in online saves time. Check your airline's baggage policy to avoid extra fees and delays.

Security and documents

Make sure you have every document you need, passport and visa included where they apply. Get to the airport early so you can clear security without rushing.

Health and safety

The airport keeps safety and health protocols in place, with medical posts and pharmacies available for emergencies.

Exploring Campinas

Attractions nearby

After landing at Viracopos, visitors have easy access to several attractions in Campinas, such as Parque Taquaral, Bosque dos Jequitibás and the Natural History Museum.

Culture and food

Campinas is known for its rich culture and excellent food. Do not miss the chance to try typical dishes of São Paulo cuisine at well-regarded restaurants in the city.

Conclusion

Viracopos International Airport is one of Brazil's main airports, offering modern infrastructure and a broad range of services for a comfortable, efficient journey. We hope this complete guide has given you everything you need for your next visit to Viracopos.

Frequently asked questions

What is the official name of Viracopos Airport?

Viracopos International Airport, in Campinas, in the interior of São Paulo state, identified by the IATA code VCP. It serves the Campinas metropolitan region and takes passengers from across Greater São Paulo on low-cost flights.

Is it worth leaving São Paulo to fly from Viracopos?

It is worth it when the fare makes up for the journey, and it often does. In that case the car enters the maths: in August 2026 a week at a partner lot started at R$ 174.30, with a transfer to the terminal.

How do you reach Viracopos by car?

The main access is the Santos Dumont highway, linked to the Bandeirantes and the Anhanguera, which are the roads used by anyone leaving the state capital. The route crosses toll plazas, and that cost belongs in the trip's budget.

Does Viracopos operate through the night?

It does, and much of the low-cost network uses late-night and early-morning slots. The two partner lots listed also run 24 hours, which covers drop-off and collection outside business hours.

Where do the car parks sit in relation to the Viracopos terminal?

The official one is inside the complex, reachable on foot. The partners are outside: in August 2026 Garageinn was 1.0 km away, with a 3-minute transfer, and Virapark 3.7 km away, both with a van every 15 minutes.