A long layover in Hamar is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Stafsberg Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 35 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of HMR:
- Can you legally enter Norway? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 35-minute journey each way by Taxi/Local Bus, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the NOK. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
How to Get Into Hamar
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi/Local Bus | ~35 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~55 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.
Storing Your Luggage at Stafsberg Airport
Luggage storage options at HMR 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 Hamar for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Hamar, budget roughly $39 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $19 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.
What to See and Do in Hamar
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Hamar, two standouts are:
- Domkirkeodden (Hamar Cathedral Ruins & Museum) — You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing.
- Norsk Jernbanemuseum (Norwegian Railway Museum) — Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside HMR — 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:
- Stafsberg Airport Aircraft Observation
- Hamar Flyklubb Shared Area
Where to Grab a Meal
In Hamar
If you make it into town, Festningen Restaurant is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Sot Bar & Burger Hamar.
Inside HMR
If you’re staying in the terminal, Hamar Flyklubb Basic Refreshments is your main option. Stafsberg Airport Picnic Area (Self-Catering) works too if you want something quick.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at HMR, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Hamar itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Norway that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Sleep & Lounge Options at HMR
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at HMR, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Hamar genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.