There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Cayo Largo del Sur into a quick city adventure. From CYO, the local transport can get you into town in around 40 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
A few things to sort out before you leave CYO:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Cuba. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Cayo Largo del Sur 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.
What’s Worth Seeing in Cayo Largo del Sur
If you head into Cayo Largo del Sur, here are two things worth checking out:
Playa Sirena is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Marina Marlin Cayo Largo del Sur is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at CYO, check out Duty-Free Shop CYO or Airport Waiting Area & Relaxation to keep yourself occupied.
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.
Best Bites Near CYO
For food in Cayo Largo del Sur, local travelers recommend Rancho La Atarraya. If you have time for a second stop, El Torreón is another popular pick.
Back at CYO, Airport Cafeteria CYO is the go-to. Airport Bar & Drinks rounds out your in-terminal options.
What to Budget for Your Cayo Largo del Sur Side Trip
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Cayo Largo del Sur:
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.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Cayo Largo del Sur.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and CYO is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Cayo Largo del Sur 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.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at CYO aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Cayo Largo del Sur itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at CYO, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Cayo Largo del Sur 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.