✨ VIP Lounges at Rio Galeão Airport (GIG)
🛬 How to access them and what services they offer
All lounges at Rio de Janeiro Galeão Airport are located in Terminal 2, both in the domestic and international departure areas. They are an excellent option if you need to work, relax, or simply wait for your flight in greater comfort. Below, you’ll find the main lounges and what each one offers.
American Airlines Admirals Club
- 📍 Location: South pier, third floor, international departures.
- 🕒 Hours: 2:00 pm to 11:30 pm.
- 🌐 Access: Admirals Club membership, American Airlines and oneworld Business/First Class passengers, Emerald/Sapphire status holders, or pay at the door (USD 59.00).
- ✅ Services: Wi-Fi, computers, showers, TV, kids’ area, beverages, and snacks.
- What travelers like: Friendly staff, good comfort level.
- Common complaints: Slightly outdated facilities and limited food variety.
Lounge GOL Smiles
- 📍 Location: Domestic departures: Second floor, across from gates B36/B37. International departures: Third floor, south pier.
- 🕒 Hours: Domestic: 6:00 am to 10:00 pm (Wednesdays and Fridays until 11:00 pm). International: 5:00 am to 11:00 pm. Maximum stay: 4 hours.
- 🌐 Access: With Priority Pass, LoungeKey, DragonPass, Diners Club, eligible GOL passengers (Premium Economy/Diamante/Ouro), eligible Smiles members, or pay at the door (R$184 to R$220).
- ✅ Services: Wi-Fi, showers, beverages, snacks, massage chairs, air conditioning, newspapers, and TV.
- What travelers like: Modern atmosphere, good cleanliness.
- Common complaints: Can get crowded during peak hours, limited food options.
Plaza Premium Lounge
- 📍 Location: Domestic departures: Level 1, after security, down the escalators. International departures: South pier, third floor. Arrivals: First floor of the Parking Garage Building.
- 🕒 Hours: 24 hours. Max stay: 2 hours.
- 🌐 Access: With DragonPass, Visa Airport Companion, Amex Platinum/Centurion, online booking, or pay at the door (R$156 to R$238).
- ✅ Services: Snacks, beverages, showers, Wi-Fi, newspapers, lockers, luggage storage area.
- What travelers like: Good infrastructure and service.
- Common complaints: Time-limited access, relatively high prices.
Star Alliance Lounge
- 📍 Location: Level 3, international departures.
- 🕒 Hours: 24 hours.
- 🌐 Access: First/business class passengers on Star Alliance airlines, or Star Alliance Gold members.
- ✅ Services: Hot meals, bar, showers, Wi-Fi, computers, TV, newspapers, quiet rest area.
- What travelers like: Excellent food selection and quiet spaces.
- Common complaints: Exclusive access, no pay-at-the-door option.
📊 Quick comparison of airport lounges at Galeão
👉 Swipe right if you’re on a mobile device
| Lounge | Location | Hours | Access without membership | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Admirals Club | International – South Pier | 2:00 pm – 11:30 pm | Yes (USD 59) | Kid’s area, showers |
| GOL Smiles | Domestic / International | 5:00 am – 11:00 pm | Yes (R$184+) | Massage chairs, snacks |
| Plaza Premium | Domestic / International | 24 hours | Yes (R$156–238) | Showers, lockers, catering |
| Star Alliance | International | 24 hours | No | Hot meals, business amenities |
💡 Tips Before Choosing Your Lounge
- 🕒 If you have less than 90 minutes before boarding, paying for lounge access may not be worth it.
- 🧴 If you want to shower after a long flight, choose Plaza Premium or Star Alliance.
- 📶 For work, look for lounges with stable Wi-Fi, power outlets, and low occupancy.
- 📲 Always check whether your credit card includes free access through Priority Pass or LoungeKey.
- 🎟️ Some lounges allow advance online reservations, which is recommended during peak season.