Campinas Car Hire

Top tips for renting a car in Campinas

• A hire car is the best way to explore the huge state of São Paulo, including the university city of Campinas and its main points of interest, such as Portugal Park. With a car, you can head to nearby towns like Santana de Parnaiba or Bom Jesus dos Perdoes, both 40 miles away, or embark on a longer road trip to the coast, such as to the paradisiac location of Ilhabela, which is a 120-mile drive away.
• There are several hire car companies at Viracopos International Airport, including Hertz, Movida, and Unidas. The airport is located about 12 miles from Campinas and the car hire desks can be found on the Arrivals Hall of the main terminal. You need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent a vehicle in Brazil.
• Navigating Campinas is straightforward enough, but it’s recommended to have a GPS device in the car in case you get lost, as locals may not speak any English. It’s best to stay off the roads at night, because lighting can be poor and the chances of encountering drunk drivers are higher. Jaywalking is also common, so stick to the speed limits and drive defensively at all times.
• Campinas may not be as chaotic in terms of traffic as the state capital of São Paulo, but driving during rush hour can add a substantial amount of time to your travels. Avoid driving in the city center, and especially towards the airport, between 6:30 a.m. and 9:30 a.m., and then again between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.
• Book your rental car in Campinas at least 1 week before your trip in order to get a below-average price