Quick Answer
The best and most convenient way to travel from Curitiba Afonso Pena International Airport (CWB) to the Curitiba Bus Terminal (Rodoviária) is the Airport Executive Shuttle (Ãnibus Executivo Aeroporto). This direct bus takes approximately 40 minutes, costs only R$22.20 (as of 2024), and drops you off right at the terminal entrance. For door-to-door service, Uber/99 is a faster (20-35 mins) and affordable (R$30-45) alternative to taxis.
1. Airport Executive Shuttle (Ãnibus Executivo Aeroporto) â Top Pick
Operated by URBS (Curitiba's Urban Transportation Authority), this dedicated shuttle service is designed specifically for air travelers and provides the ideal balance of cost, comfort, and convenience.
Key Advantages:
- Direct Route: No transfers, goes straight from the airport arrivals to the Bus Terminal.
- Luggage-Friendly: Equipped with spacious luggage compartments under the bus.
- Fixed & Low Price: R$22.20, regardless of traffic or time of day.
- Frequency: Departs approximately every 30 minutes. Service runs from early morning until shortly after midnight.
- Comfort: Air-conditioned, comfortable seats, and reliable.
How to Use It:
- Exit Arrivals: After collecting your bags, walk out of the main terminal doors.
- Find the Stop: Look for the clearly marked âÃNIBUS EXECUTIVO AEROPORTOâ bus stop directly outside.
- Board & Pay: Board the bus and pay the fare in cash (R$) directly to the driver. Card payment is usually not available.
- Enjoy the Ride: The journey takes you through parts of Curitiba, ending at the Terminal Rodoviário de Curitiba. The driver will announce the stop.
2. Taxi, Uber & Ride-Hailing (Door-to-Door)
For maximum convenience, especially with heavy luggage, late at night, or in a small group, a private vehicle is the best choice.
Official Pre-Paid Taxis
Located immediately outside the arrivals hall. You pay a fixed fare at a booth before entering the taxi, eliminating meter anxiety.
- Cost: Approximately R$70 - R$80 to the Rodoviária.
- Pros: Available 24/7, secure, fixed price, no app needed.
- Cons: The most expensive option (often 2-3x the price of Uber).
Uber, 99, or InDriver
These app-based services are widely used in Curitiba and offer significantly better value than official taxis.
- Cost: Typically between R$30 - R$45, subject to surge pricing during peak hours or bad weather.
- Pick-up Point: Use the designated ride-hailing pick-up zone at the airport. Follow signs or ask information.
- Travel Time: 20 to 35 minutes, heavily dependent on traffic on BR-376 and within the city.
- Tip: For the best rate, compare prices on both Uber and 99 (a leading local app owned by DiDi).
3. Public Bus (Cheapest & Most Complex)
This is only recommended for budget-conscious travelers with light luggage and some familiarity with Curitiba's bus system. There is no single direct bus.
The Route (Example):
- Take the âAeroporto / Praça Rui Barbosaâ bus from the airport terminal stop. (Fare: ~R$5.40).
- Get off at the final stop, Praça Rui Barbosa, in the city center.
- From there, you must walk (~10 mins) or take another local bus (e.g., âCentro / Terminal Ãgua Verdeâ) to reach the Rodoviária area.
Challenges: Buses can be crowded, have limited luggage space, and the transfer can be confusing for newcomers. The total travel time can exceed 60-70 minutes.
Resource: Plan your route using the official Curitiba Mobilidade app or website.
4. Cost & Time Comparison: Airport (CWB) to Bus Terminal
Use this table to make a quick decision based on your priority: cost, speed, or convenience.
| Transport Method | Approx. Cost (BRL - R$) | Approx. Travel Time | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airport Executive Shuttle | R$22.20 | 40-50 mins | Direct, luggage space, air-conditioned, fixed schedule | Most travelers (Best Value) |
| Uber / 99 | R$30 - R$45 | 20-35 mins | Door-to-door, on-demand, pay by app | Convenience, small groups, late arrival |
| Official Pre-Paid Taxi | R$70 - R$80 | 20-35 mins | 24/7 availability, fixed price, no app needed | Immediate departure, security concerns |
| Public Bus (Combination) | R$10.80+ | 60-80+ mins | Extremely cheap, requires transfer/walking | Solo backpackers on a strict budget |
5. Traveler Tips & Insider Insights
Navigating the Bus Terminal (Rodoviária)
The Curitiba Bus Terminal is a large, modern facility. Inside, you'll find ticket counters for hundreds of intercity and interstate bus companies (like ClickBus for online tickets), ATMs, shops, food courts, and luggage storage (guarda-volumes). Allow extra time before your bus departure to find your platform.
Money & Connectivity
- Cash is King for Shuttles: Have Brazilian Reais (R$) ready for the Airport Shuttle.
- Wi-Fi & SIMs: The airport offers limited free Wi-Fi. For better connectivity, consider buying a local SIM card at the airport or in the city. Having data is crucial for using Uber/99 and maps.
If Your Flight is Delayed
The Airport Shuttle schedule aligns with common flight arrival times, but if you land very late, your only reliable options are taxi or ride-hailing apps. Pre-booking a private transfer is an expensive but stress-free alternative for peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the most convenient way to get from Curitiba Airport to the Bus Terminal?
The Airport Executive Shuttle (Ãnibus Executivo Aeroporto) is the most convenient and recommended method. It's a direct, air-conditioned bus that runs frequently, costs only R$22.20, and takes about 40 minutes. It drops you right at the Bus Terminal's entrance.
Is there a direct public bus from the airport to the Rodoviária?
No, there is no single direct public bus. You would need to take a combination of two buses with a transfer in the city center (e.g., take bus 'Aeroporto / Praça Rui Barbosa' to the city center, then walk or transfer to a bus heading to the Rodoviária). This is not recommended for travelers with luggage.
How much does a taxi or Uber cost from CWB Airport to the Bus Terminal?
A pre-paid taxi from the official booth costs approximately R$70-80. An Uber or 99 (local app) is significantly cheaper, usually between R$30-45, depending on demand and traffic. The ride takes 20-35 minutes.
I arrive late at night (after 11 PM). What are my options?
The Airport Shuttle's last departure is around 00:30 AM (check current schedule). After this, your only practical options are taxi, Uber, or 99. Ride-hailing apps are generally available but may have surge pricing. Pre-paid taxis are available 24/7.
I have a lot of luggage. What is the best option?
The Airport Shuttle has dedicated luggage compartments, making it excellent for bulky bags. Taxis and Ubers offer door-to-door convenience with no handling. Avoid the public bus combination due to crowded vehicles and lack of luggage space.
Which option is the cheapest?
The absolute cheapest option (R$0) is walking, but it's 12km and not feasible. The cheapest *practical* option is the public bus combination (around R$5.40 x 2 = R$10.80), but it's complex. The best value is the Airport Shuttle at R$22.20 for direct, comfortable service.
Is the Bus Terminal (Rodoviária) within walking distance from the city center?
No, the Curitiba Bus Terminal is not within easy walking distance from the main tourist areas like Batel or Centro Histórico. It is located in the Ãgua Verde neighborhood, about 3-4 km away. You will need to take a local bus, taxi, or Uber to reach it from most parts of the city.
Where do I buy tickets for the Airport Executive Shuttle?
You buy tickets directly from the driver when boarding the shuttle. Have cash (Brazilian Reais) ready, as cards are often not accepted. The bus stop is located right outside the arrivals hall of the airport terminal.