How to Spend a Layover in Green Island (GNI)

Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Green Island. Lyudao Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 30 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.

Pre-Departure Checklist

A few things to sort out before you leave GNI:

  • Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Taiwan. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
  • Travel time: The trip to Green Island takes about 30 minutes by Taxi / Local Bus. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
  • Currency: The local currency is TWD. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.

Getting from GNI to Green Island

Option Approximate Time Cost Level Notes
Taxi / Local Bus ~30 min $ Recommended for layovers
Taxi / Ride-share ~50 min $$$ Convenient but traffic-dependent

For a layover, the Taxi / Local Bus is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.

Layover Budget Breakdown

Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Green Island might cost in USD:

  • Transport (round trip): ~$6 USD
  • A meal: ~$12 USD
  • Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
  • Estimated total: ~$28 USD

Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.

Exploring Green Island on a Layover

Two recommendations for your time in Green Island:

Start with Green Island Lighthouse (綠島燈塔). It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Green Island. Then, if time allows, make your way to Little Great Wall (小長城). Worth checking out if your schedule allows.

Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside GNI, you can spend time at Ocean View from GNI Terminal or try GNI Local Souvenir Corner. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.

Best Bites Near GNI

  • In the city: Mr. Kai’s Seafood Restaurant (開åƒå°åƒ) and Da Gu Fan Dian (大古飯點) are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Green Island.
  • At the airport: Lyudao Airport Snack Bar and Local Green Island Delights Kiosk will get the job done without leaving the terminal.

Storing Your Luggage at Lyudao Airport

Luggage storage options at GNI 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 Green Island for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.

Staying Connected

Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and GNI is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Green Island 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.

Sleep & Lounge Options at GNI

Long overnight layover? Your options at GNI include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Taiwan also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.

Final Thoughts

Whether you spend your layover in Green Island exploring the streets or relaxing at GNI, 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.

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