A long layover in Brest is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Brest Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 70 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Important Details Before You Go
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at BQT:
First, verify that you can enter Belarus — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Bus takes about 70 minutes into Brest, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — BYN is the currency here. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
How to Get Into Brest
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus | ~70 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~90 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Bus 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’s Worth Seeing in Brest
Two recommendations for your time in Brest:
Start with Brest Hero-Fortress Memorial Complex. You can see the main features in a short visit. Then, if time allows, make your way to Sovetskaya Street Pedestrian Area. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside BQT, you can spend time at Brest Airport Terminal Lounge Area or try Brest Airport Duty-Free & Souvenirs. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food Worth Trying
In Brest
If you make it into town, Restaurant Jules is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Traktir Na Gogolya.
Inside BQT
If you’re staying in the terminal, Brest Airport Cafe & Bar is your main option. Terminal Kiosk & Vending works too if you want something quick.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Brest might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$9 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$24 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Brest, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Luggage Storage at BQT
Luggage storage is available at Not typically available at this small 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 Brest.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at BQT for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Brest or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at BQT include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Belarus also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Brest exploring the streets or relaxing at BQT, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.