Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Kabul gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from KBL to the city takes roughly 60 minutes by local transport, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Important Details Before You Go
Before heading into Kabul, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Afghanistan vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Kabul is roughly 60 minutes from KBL via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in AFN. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
How to Get Into Kabul
You have two main options for getting from Hamid Karzai International Airport into town:
- local transport: About 60 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 80 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.
What to Budget for Your Kabul Side Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Kabul might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$6 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$21 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Kabul:
Start with Bagh-e Babur (Babur’s Gardens). A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight. Then, if time allows, make your way to National Museum of Afghanistan. Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside KBL — 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:
- KBL Passenger Waiting Lounge
- Airport Souvenir & Basic Shop
Food Worth Trying
For food in Kabul, local travelers recommend Gandamak Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, Kabul Serena Hotel Restaurants is another popular pick.
Back at KBL, Airport Terminal Cafe is the go-to. Local Delights Counter rounds out your in-terminal options.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage options at KBL 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 Kabul 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 KBL is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Kabul 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.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Long overnight layover? Your options at KBL include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Afghanistan also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Kabul 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.