If you’ve got a layover in Ganja, don’t let it go to waste sitting at KVD. The city, in Azerbaijan, is within easy reach — roughly 40 minutes by local transport. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Important Details Before You Go
Before heading into Ganja, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Azerbaijan vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Ganja is roughly 40 minutes from KVD via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Ganja Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Ganja Airport into town:
- local transport: About 40 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 60 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.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at KVD aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Ganja itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Ganja, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
If you head into Ganja, here are two things worth checking out:
Imamzadeh Complex is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Bottle House (Butulkali Ev) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at KVD, check out Ganja International Airport Lounge or Ganja Airport Duty-Free to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
For food in Ganja, local travelers recommend Ganja Gastronomy House. If you have time for a second stop, Chinar Restaurant is another popular pick.
Back at KVD, Ganja Airport Cafe is the go-to. Airport Express Snack Bar rounds out your in-terminal options.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and KVD is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Ganja 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.
Need a Nap? Options at KVD
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, KVD 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.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Ganja with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Ganja 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.
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.