A long layover in Hatay is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Hatay Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 90 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Before You Step Outside HTY
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at HTY:
First, verify that you can enter Turkey — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the HAVAÅ Airport Shuttles takes about 90 minutes into Hatay, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — TRY is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some TRY in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Hatay Airport into town:
- HAVAÅ Airport Shuttles: About 90 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 110 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.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Hatay, budget roughly $23 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $8 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 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.
Exploring Hatay on a Layover
If you head into Hatay, here are two things worth checking out:
City Center Walk is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe.
Local Market is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
If you’d rather stay inside HTY — 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:
- Airport Lounge
- Duty Free Shopping
Food Worth Trying
- In the city: Local Restaurant and Popular Eatery are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Hatay.
- At the airport: Airport Cafe and Terminal Restaurant will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage options at HTY 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 Hatay for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
WiFi at HTY 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 Turkey and you’re good to go.
Need a Nap? Options at HTY
Long overnight layover? Your options at HTY include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Turkey also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Hatay is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Hatay.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.