A layover in Chita is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Chita-Kadala Airport sits just 75 minutes from the city center by Bus / Marshrutka (Minibus), and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Pre-Departure Checklist
A few things to sort out before you leave HTA:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Russia. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Chita takes about 75 minutes by Bus / Marshrutka (Minibus). Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is RUB. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some RUB in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Chita-Kadala Airport into town:
- Bus / Marshrutka (Minibus): About 75 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 95 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 Chita 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 Chita, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
How to Spend Your Time in Chita
If you head into Chita, here are two things worth checking out:
Decembrists’ Museum is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
Lenin Square is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Chita.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at HTA, check out Business Lounge or Souvenir Kiosks to keep yourself occupied.
Eating Well on a Chita Layover
For food in Chita, local travelers recommend Chita Burger Bar. If you have time for a second stop, Restaurant “Naran” is another popular pick.
Back at HTA, Airport Cafe “Kadala” is the go-to. Coffee & Snacks Kiosk rounds out your in-terminal options.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at HTA aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Chita itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at HTA for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Chita 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.
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 HTA.
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 Chita doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 75 minutes from HTA, 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.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.