Cheap Flights from Recife to Rio De Janeiro Starting at $79

Recife/Guararapes–Gilberto Freyre International Airport (REC) is the main international gateway to Pernambuco and the Pernambuco metro area, serving a mix of full-service carriers and regional/budget airlines that connect Northeast Brazil with domestic and some international routes. Located about 11 km (7 miles) southwest of downtown Recife, it’s typically a short drive — roughly 20–40 minutes depending on traffic — with taxis and ride-hailing services commonly used (fares vary), plus regular airport shuttles and car rental options. Pros: relatively close to the city center and offers international connections and a range of passenger facilities; cons: can be busy at peak times and transfer times within the terminal may be longer than smaller regional fields.

Fly direct from Recife to Rio de Janeiro for the fastest, most convenient way to get between these two vibrant Brazilian cities — less hassle, no layovers, and more time to enjoy beaches and nightlife. While connecting flights can sometimes be cheaper, a nonstop trip saves hours and offers a more comfortable, stress-free travel experience, making it worth considering when booking.

Rio de Janeiro is served mainly by two airports with distinct roles. Galeão–Antonio Carlos Jobim (GIG) functions as the international hub, handling most long-haul and full-service carriers; it sits about 20–25 km north of downtown and can be reached by taxi or app ride in roughly 25–40 minutes depending on traffic, or by airport bus and planned rail links with fares typically spanning moderate ranges. Santos Dumont (SDU) is a smaller, centrally located airport favored for domestic and regional flights, especially by budget and business-oriented carriers, lying just 2–4 km from the city center with transfers often under 15 minutes by taxi or public ferry. Pros: Galeão offers more international connectivity and amenities, while Santos Dumont is extremely convenient for quick downtown access. Cons: Galeão can mean longer transfers and variable traffic delays, whereas SDU may be pricier per minute and has more limited route options.

The route Recife — Rio De Janeiro is served by several airlines: Gol Transportes Aéreos, Azul Brazilian Airlines, and LATAM Chile. This gives passengers more freedom in choosing flights. You can consider not only the price but also schedules, baggage policies, and onboard service. Our service compares all offers so you can find tickets from $79 and choose the most convenient option. Thanks to airline competition, you may also find promotional fares or special offers, helping you save even more. Plan your trip in advance and choose the best flights without overpaying.