Layover in Bermuda: From BDA to the City and Back

Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Bermuda. L.F. Wade International International Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 120 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.

Essential Info Before You Head Out

Three things to verify before you walk out of BDA:

  1. Can you legally enter Bermuda? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
  2. Do you have enough time? With a 120-minute journey each way by local transport, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
  3. How will you pay? Local currency is the local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.

The Best Way Into Bermuda from BDA

You have two main options for getting from L.F. Wade International International Airport into town:

  • local transport: About 120 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
  • Taxi or ride-share: Around 140 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.

Luggage Storage at BDA

Luggage storage options at BDA can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.

Another option: if you’re only in Bermuda for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.

Layover Budget Breakdown

You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Bermuda:

Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $20 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $40 USD total.

If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.

Things to Do During Your Layover

With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Bermuda, two standouts are:

  • Historic Town of St. George’s (UNESCO Site) — You can see the main features in a short visit.
  • Tobacco Bay Beach — It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.

Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.

Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at BDA, check out Skyport Lounge or DFS Bermuda Duty Free to keep yourself occupied.

Where to Grab a Meal

  • In the city: Wahoo’s Bistro & Patio and The White Horse Pub & Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Bermuda.
  • At the airport: L.F. Wade International Airport Bar & Restaurant and Dunkin’ (L.F. Wade International Airport) will get the job done without leaving the terminal.

Staying Connected

Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and BDA is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Bermuda 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.

Rest Areas & Lounges

Long overnight layover? Your options at BDA include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Bermuda also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.

Final Thoughts

A layover in Bermuda doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 120 minutes from BDA, 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.

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