If you’ve got a layover in Burbank, don’t let it go to waste sitting at BUR. The city, in United States, is within easy reach — roughly 60 minutes by local transport. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Before heading into Burbank, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for United States vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Burbank is roughly 60 minutes from BUR via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in 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
You have two main options for getting from Bob Hope Airport into town:
- local transport: 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.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Burbank might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Exploring Burbank on a Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Burbank:
Start with Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood. Worth checking out if your schedule allows. Then, if time allows, make your way to Universal Studios Hollywood. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at BUR, check out Relax & Recharge at BUR or Airport Essentials Shopping to keep yourself occupied.
Eating Well on a Burbank Layover
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Burbank: Porto’s Bakery & Cafe and Smoke House Restaurant. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Bob Hope Burger Bar or Guacamole Grill. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage options at BUR 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 Burbank for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at BUR, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Burbank itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for United States that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Need a Nap? Options at BUR
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 BUR.
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.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Burbank is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Burbank.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.