A layover in Dubbo is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Dubbo City Regional Airport sits just 30 minutes from the city center by Taxi/Rideshare, 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.
Important Details Before You Go
Three things to verify before you walk out of DBO:
- Can you legally enter Australia? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 30-minute journey each way by Taxi/Rideshare, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the AUD. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Getting from DBO to Dubbo
From DBO, the Taxi/Rideshare gets you to Dubbo in around 30 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 50 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/Rideshare offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What to Budget for Your Dubbo Side Trip
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Dubbo:
Transport to the city and back runs about $9 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $17 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $36 USD total.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Dubbo, here are two things worth checking out:
Taronga Western Plains Zoo is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Dubbo.
Old Dubbo Gaol is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside DBO, you can spend time at Relax in Departure Lounge or try Utilise Free Wi-Fi. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food & Dining Options
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Dubbo: The Old Bank Restaurant Dubbo and Church Street Cafe. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Cafe – Light Meals or Airport Cafe – Coffee & Snacks. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Storing Your Luggage at Dubbo City Regional Airport
Dedicated luggage storage at DBO may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Dubbo’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and DBO is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Dubbo 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.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
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 DBO.
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 Dubbo with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Dubbo 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.