✨ VIP Lounges at Rio Galeão Airport (GIG)
🛬 How to access and what each lounge offers
All VIP lounges at Rio de Janeiro’s Galeão International Airport are located in Terminal 2, with options in both domestic and international areas. They are a great option if you want to relax, work, shower or enjoy complimentary food and drinks before your flight. Below is a breakdown of the top lounges and their benefits.
American Airlines Admirals Club
- 📍 Location: South pier, 3rd floor.
- 🕒 Hours: 1:15 PM to 10:30 PM.
- 🌐 Access: Admirals Club or Alaska Lounge+ members, business/first class passengers on American Airlines or oneworld, Emerald/Sapphire members, U.S. military, or pay at the door (USD 79).
- ✅ Amenities: Wi-Fi, showers, snacks, bar, children’s area, TV, computers.
- Pros: Friendly staff, quiet atmosphere.
- Cons: Limited food variety, older décor.
GOL Premium Lounge (Smiles)
- 📍 Location: Domestic: near gates B36/B37 (2nd floor). International: south pier, 3rd floor.
- 🕒 Hours: Domestic: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM | International: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM. Max stay: 4 hours.
- 🌐 Access: Priority Pass, LoungeKey, DragonPass, Diners Club or pay at the door (R$184–220).
- ✅ Amenities: Massage chairs, Wi-Fi, snacks, showers, drinks, magazines, air conditioning, TVs.
- Pros: Modern space, good hygiene.
- Cons: Gets crowded during peak hours.
Plaza Premium Lounge
- 📍 Location: South pier (3rd floor), mezzanine, and Premium Parking level 1.
- 🕒 Hours: 24 hours. Max stay: 2 hours.
- 🌐 Access: Priority Pass, DragonPass, Amex Platinum/Centurion, online booking, or pay at the door (R$185–290).
- ✅ Amenities: Snacks, drinks, Wi-Fi, showers, luggage storage, press, quiet zone.
- Pros: Well-maintained, excellent staff.
- Cons: Time-restricted entry, premium price.
Star Alliance Lounge
- 📍 Location: Level 3 – international departures area.
- 🕒 Hours: 24 hours.
- 🌐 Access: First/business class on Star Alliance airlines or Star Alliance Gold status. No paid entry available.
- ✅ Amenities: Hot meals, premium drinks, showers, computers, Wi-Fi, reading materials, TVs.
- Pros: Top-tier food and a quiet working space.
- Cons: No access without eligible ticket or membership.
📊 Lounge Comparison at GIG Airport
👉 Swipe right on mobile to see full table
| Lounge | Location | Hours | Pay at Door | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Admirals Club | International – South Pier | 1:15 PM – 10:30 PM | Yes (USD 79) | Kid’s area, showers |
| GOL Smiles | Domestic & International | 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM | Yes (R$184+) | Massage chairs, snacks |
| Plaza Premium | Multiple zones (T2) | 24 hours | Yes (R$185–290) | Showers, buffet, luggage storage |
| Star Alliance | International | 24 hours | No | Full meals, business amenities |
💡 Tips Before Choosing a Lounge
- 🕒 If your flight departs in less than 90 minutes, skip it—time may be too tight to enjoy it.
- 🧴 Want a hot shower after a long flight? Go for Plaza Premium or Star Alliance.
- 📶 For work, prioritize lounges with stable Wi-Fi and power outlets.
- 📲 Check if your bank card includes free access via Priority Pass or LoungeKey.
- 🎟️ Reserve online during peak season to avoid capacity issues.