There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Chardzhou into a quick city adventure. From CRZ, the Taxi can get you into town in around 75 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 CRZ:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Turkmenistan. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Chardzhou takes about 75 minutes by Taxi. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is TMT. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | ~75 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~95 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi 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.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Chardzhou 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.
How to Spend Your Time in Chardzhou
If you head into Chardzhou, here are two things worth checking out:
Turkmenabat Bazaar (Täze Bazaar) is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
Amu Darya River Embankment 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 CRZ, check out CRZ Business Lounge or Duty-Free & Souvenir Shop to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Chardzhou: Dostluk Restaurant and AÅgabat Cafe (Ashgabat Cafe). Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Cafe or Terminal Bistro. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Luggage Storage Options
Luggage storage options at CRZ 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 Chardzhou for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
WiFi at CRZ should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Turkmenistan and you’re good to go.
Resting at the Airport
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at CRZ, 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 Chardzhou 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.