Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Ancona gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from AOI to the city takes roughly 60 minutes by Bus & Train, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
A few things to sort out before you leave AOI:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Italy. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Ancona takes about 60 minutes by Bus & Train. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Ancona, here are two things worth checking out:
Cattedrale di San Ciriaco (Ancona Cathedral) is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. A peaceful stop that offers a break from the rush of travel.
Arco di Traiano (Trajan’s Arch) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Ancona.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at AOI, check out Ancona Falconara Duty Free Shop or Airport Bar & Cafe to keep yourself occupied.
How to Get Into Ancona
You have two main options for getting from Ancona Falconara Airport into town:
- Bus & Train: About 60 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 80 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Food & Dining Options
- In the city: La Degosteria and Osteria del Bivio are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Ancona.
- At the airport: Airport Main Cafe & Bar and Airport Hot Food Counter will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
What to Budget for Your Ancona Side Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Ancona might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$11 USD
- A meal: ~$22 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$43 USD
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Ancona.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and AOI is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Ancona and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Storing Your Luggage at Ancona Falconara Airport
Dedicated luggage storage at AOI may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Ancona’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Long overnight layover? Your options at AOI include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Italy also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Ancona genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.