Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Chernigov gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from CEJ to the city takes roughly 60 minutes by local transport, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at CEJ:
First, verify that you can enter Ukraine — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the local transport takes about 60 minutes into Chernigov, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — UAH is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some UAH in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from CEJ to Chernigov
From CEJ, the local transport gets you to Chernigov in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
For a layover visit to Chernigov, we’d suggest Chernihiv Detinets (Val) and Catherine’s Church (Katerynynska Tserkva). Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Chernigov. Respectful visitors are generally welcome for a quick look.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at CEJ, check out Chernihiv Shestovitsa Airport Waiting Area or Runway Observation Point to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
For food in Chernigov, local travelers recommend Varenychna Mama Galya. If you have time for a second stop, Khutorok is another popular pick.
Back at CEJ, Airport Snack Bar/Cafe is the go-to. Vending Machine Corner rounds out your in-terminal options.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Chernigov might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$9 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$24 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at CEJ aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Chernigov itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at CEJ, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Chernigov itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Ukraine that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Resting at the Airport
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 CEJ.
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 Chernigov doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 60 minutes from CEJ, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.