Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Bissau. Osvaldo Vieira International Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 40 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Before You Step Outside OXB
A few things to sort out before you leave OXB:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Guinea-Bissau. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Bissau takes about 40 minutes by local transport. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| local transport | ~40 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~60 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the local transport is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
What to See and Do in Bissau
If you head into Bissau, here are two things worth checking out:
Fortaleza d’Amura & Presidential Palace is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds.
Bissau Central Market (Mercado Central) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
If you’d rather stay inside OXB — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Aeroporto Café
- Airport Souvenirs & Duty-Free
Best Bites Near OXB
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Bissau: Ponto di Encontro and Café-Restaurant Coqueiro. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Aeroporto Dining Area or Terminal Snack Bar. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Money & Budget Tips
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Bissau might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
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
Specific locker facilities at OXB aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Bissau itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and OXB is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Bissau 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.
Sleep & Lounge Options at OXB
Long overnight layover? Your options at OXB include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Guinea-Bissau also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Bissau count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave OXB. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.