A long layover in Kajaani is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Kajaani Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 75 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Before You Step Outside KAJ
Three things to verify before you walk out of KAJ:
- Can you legally enter Finland? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 75-minute journey each way by Local Bus Service, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting to Kajaani from the Airport
You have two main options for getting from Kajaani Airport into town:
- Local Bus Service: About 75 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 95 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 Kajaani, budget roughly $36 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $17 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $9 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Kajaani, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Storing Your Luggage at Kajaani Airport
Luggage storage is available at Not typically available at this small airport.. Drop your bags off early so you can explore hands-free.
Alternatively, third-party services like Bounce or Stasher can connect you with storage locations closer to wherever you’re headed in Kajaani.
Exploring Kajaani on a Layover
If you head into Kajaani, here are two things worth checking out:
Kajaani Castle Ruins is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds.
Kajaani Art Museum is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside KAJ — 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:
- Kajaani Airport Cafe & Shop
- Finnish Countryside Views from Terminal
Eating Well on a Kajaani Layover
- In the city: Ravintola Sulo and Rosso Kajaani are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Kajaani.
- At the airport: Kajaani Airport Cafe – Hot Meals and Kajaani Airport Cafe – Snacks & Beverages will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Need a Nap? Options at KAJ
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at KAJ.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at KAJ for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Kajaani or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Kajaani 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.