A long layover in Comiso is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Comiso Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 60 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
A few things to sort out before you leave CIY:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Italy. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Comiso takes about 60 minutes by AST Bus. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Get Into Comiso
The most straightforward way into Comiso is the AST Bus, which takes about 60 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 80 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the AST Bus is usually the smarter call.
Things to Do During Your Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Comiso, two standouts are:
- Piazza Fonte Diana — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
- Chiesa Madre Santa Maria delle Grazie — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Comiso.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside CIY — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Duty-Free Shop
- Relaxing at CIY Caffè & Bar
Food Worth Trying
In Comiso
If you make it into town, Ristorante Al Giardino is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Hostaria del Vicolo.
Inside CIY
If you’re staying in the terminal, Terminal Bar is your main option. Autogrill (Comiso Airport) works too if you want something quick.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Comiso, budget roughly $43 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $22 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $11 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Comiso.
Bag Storage Near CIY
Specific locker facilities at CIY aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Comiso itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and CIY is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Comiso 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.
Resting at the Airport
Long overnight layover? Your options at CIY include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Italy also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Comiso with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Comiso may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.