If you’ve got a layover in Iqaluit, don’t let it go to waste sitting at YFB. The city, in Canada, is within easy reach — roughly 30 minutes by local transport. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
A few things to sort out before you leave YFB:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Canada. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Iqaluit takes about 30 minutes by local transport. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Iqaluit Airport into town:
- local transport: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 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.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Iqaluit, 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.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
What’s Worth Seeing in Iqaluit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Iqaluit, two standouts are:
- Nunatta Sunakkutaangit Museum — Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
- Legislative Assembly of Nunavut — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at YFB, check out Nunavut Arts & Crafts Gift Shop or Arctic Landscape Viewing to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
For food in Iqaluit, local travelers recommend Storehouse Bar & Grill. If you have time for a second stop, The Gallery Lounge is another popular pick.
Back at YFB, Frobisher Bay Canteen is the go-to. Iqaluit Airport Coffee Bar rounds out your in-terminal options.
What to Do With Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at YFB may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Iqaluit’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 YFB is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Iqaluit 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 YFB
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at YFB, 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
Whether you spend your layover in Iqaluit exploring the streets or relaxing at YFB, 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.