There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Cuenca into a quick city adventure. From CUE, the Taxi / Public Bus can get you into town in around 45 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Important Details Before You Go
Before heading into Cuenca, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Ecuador vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Cuenca is roughly 45 minutes from CUE via Taxi / Public Bus. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Getting to Cuenca from the Airport
From CUE, the Taxi / Public Bus gets you to Cuenca in around 45 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 65 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi / Public Bus offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
How Much Money You’ll Need
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Cuenca:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $10 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $25 USD total.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Bag Storage Near CUE
Luggage storage options at CUE 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 Cuenca for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
What’s Worth Seeing in Cuenca
For a layover visit to Cuenca, we’d suggest Cuenca Historic Center (Parque Calderón & New Cathedral) and Mirador de Turi. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Respectful visitors are generally welcome for a quick look. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Cuenca.
If you’d rather stay inside CUE — 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:
- Souvenir & Craft Shopping
- Airport Cafe & Wi-Fi Access
Eating Well on a Cuenca Layover
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Cuenca: Tiesto’s Cafe and Dos Sucres. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for CafeterÃa Mariscal or Airport Snack & Drink Kiosk. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Need a Nap? Options at CUE
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, CUE has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Staying Connected
WiFi at CUE 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 Ecuador and you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Cuenca exploring the streets or relaxing at CUE, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.