Passing through Albany Airport? A layover in Albany is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 40 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave ALH:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Australia. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Albany takes about 40 minutes by Taxi/Rideshare. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is AUD. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
From ALH, the Taxi/Rideshare gets you to Albany in around 40 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 60 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi/Rideshare offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Albany layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$9 |
| Meal | ~$17 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$36 |
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
What to Do With Your Bags
Luggage storage is available at Not available at this small regional airport.. Drop your bags off early so you can explore hands-free.
Alternatively, third-party services like Bounce or Stasher can connect you with storage locations closer to wherever you’re headed in Albany.
Things to Do During Your Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Albany, two standouts are:
- National Anzac Centre — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
- Middleton Beach — Perfect for a short walk when you need fresh air after a long flight.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside ALH, you can spend time at Albany Airport Cafe Relaxation or try Aircraft Spotting & Waiting Area. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Best Bites Near ALH
In Albany
If you make it into town, Liberte is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Three Anchors Restaurant & Bar.
Inside ALH
If you’re staying in the terminal, Albany Airport Kiosk & Cafe is your main option. Grab-and-Go Snacks (Airport) works too if you want something quick.
Sleep & Lounge Options at ALH
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at ALH.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at ALH, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Albany itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Australia that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Albany doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 40 minutes from ALH, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.