How to get to Marilia

Located in the interior of the State of São Paulo, Marilia welcomes guests with a dynamic rhythm and the honorary status of the "National Capital of the Food Industry." This city is renowned for its large confectionery factories, making it famous far beyond the region.

However, Marilia is not just about the production of sweets. It is an important educational hub with a distinct, lively student atmosphere. Furthermore, the city attracts science and ancient history enthusiasts with its paleontological heritage: significant dinosaur fossils have been discovered here, making a trip to this part of Brazil truly fascinating and educational.

The quickest way to reach your destination is by air. Marilia is served by its own airport (IATA code: MII), located in immediate proximity to the city limits. Flights regularly arrive here from major Brazilian hubs, making air travel a comfortable option for most tourists.

If a direct flight does not suit your schedule or budget, it is worth checking tickets to neighbouring cities. The nearest major alternative is the airport in Bauru, located less than a hundred kilometres away. Additionally, Araçatuba or Presidente Prudente can be considered as transit points: transport connections between these settlements are well-developed, so the final leg of the journey will not cause difficulties.

There is no direct railway service to this destination, as Marilia does not have an active passenger train station. Travellers exploring the vastness of Brazil should plan alternative travel options in advance, such as using the extensive network of intercity buses.

The nearest major settlements that can serve as reference points when planning a complex route are Bauru, located 91 kilometres away, as well as Araçatuba and Presidente Prudente. From these cities to the final point of your journey, you will need to travel by road, enjoying the landscapes of the State of São Paulo from the window of a car or bus.

Bus services in this region of Brazil are organised at a high level, making the trip to Marilia convenient and accessible. One of the most popular and untiring routes connects the city with neighbouring Bauru: the distance is about 100 kilometres, and the travel time by bus usually does not exceed one and a half hours.

For travellers departing from other major transport hubs in the state, there are also regular services. A trip from Araçatuba, covering a distance of about 190 kilometres, will take approximately 3–4 hours. A similar amount of time will be required to get from Presidente Prudente: this city is located about 180 kilometres from the destination, allowing you to reach the place relatively quickly and in comfort.

Travelling by car through the State of São Paulo allows you to see the authentic life of the region and comfortably enjoy the roads of Brazil. The shortest and most convenient route lies from the neighbouring city of Bauru: the distance is about 106 kilometres, and with clear traffic, you will reach your destination in just 1 hour and 25 minutes.

Routes from other settlements will also not be tiring for the driver. The road from Araçatuba, which is 158 kilometres long, will take approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. If you are departing from Presidente Prudente, expect to cover the 198 kilometres to Marilia in an average of 2.5 hours.

Before travelling to Marilia, it is worth knowing a few important nuances that will make your journey through this region of Brazil as comfortable and safe as possible. We have prepared a list of practical recommendations covering all aspects of your stay: from wardrobe preparation to interacting with locals.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate in the State of São Paulo is predominantly warm, so opt for light clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. Be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, and a hat. If the trip is planned for the winter months (June-August), bring a light jacket or sweater, as evenings can be cool.
2. Transport. To move around the city, it is most convenient to use popular taxi apps (such as Uber or 99), which work stably here and offer reasonable prices. Public transport is represented by buses, but navigating the routes can be difficult for a tourist without knowledge of the language.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Brazilian Real. Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, including restaurants and supermarkets. However, it is recommended to always carry a small amount of cash for payments in small shops or for buying street food.
4. Health and Safety. Marilia is considered a relatively calm city, but basic precautions are advisable: keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. It is recommended to drink only bottled water. Also, do not forget insect repellent, especially if you plan walks in nature.
5. Communication. The main language is Portuguese. English is not widely spoken outside of hotels and major business centres. We recommend downloading an offline translator on your smartphone in advance; this will significantly facilitate communication in shops and restaurants.
6. Local Etiquette. Brazilians are a very open and friendly people. Handshakes are customary upon meeting, while among friends, light hugs or kisses on the cheek are common. The "thumbs up" gesture is universal here and signifies approval, gratitude, or a greeting.
7. What to Avoid. Do not walk alone in remote areas after dark. Also, avoid displaying expensive jewellery or large electronics on the street to avoid attracting unnecessary attention.
8. Additional Tip. Since the city holds the title of "National Capital of the Food Industry," be sure to try the products of local confectionery factories. The biscuits and sweets produced here are considered some of the best in the country and make for excellent souvenirs (do check ingredients for dietary preferences).

Following these simple rules will help you avoid minor inconveniences and focus on the main thing — exploring the culture and sights of the city. Marilia is a hospitable place where, with due respect for local traditions, you will feel right at home.