Passing through Košice Airport? A layover in Kosice is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 50 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Before heading into Kosice, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Slovakia vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Kosice is roughly 50 minutes from KSC via Bus Line 23. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Kosice, here are two things worth checking out:
St. Elisabeth Cathedral is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. A peaceful stop that offers a break from the rush of travel.
Hlavná Ulica (Main Street) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
If you’d rather stay inside KSC — 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:
- Košice Airport Lounge
- Duty Free Shop KSC
Best Bites Near KSC
For food in Kosice, local travelers recommend Med Malina. If you have time for a second stop, Hostinec / Pub u Kohúta is another popular pick.
Back at KSC, KSC Airport Cafe & Bar is the go-to. Gate 1 Snack Bar rounds out your in-terminal options.
Getting to Kosice from the Airport
You have two main options for getting from Košice Airport into town:
- Bus Line 23: About 50 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 70 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
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Kosice:
Transport to the city and back runs about $7 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $13 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $30 USD total.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Kosice, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Storing Your Luggage at Košice Airport
Dedicated luggage storage at KSC may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Kosice’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 KSC is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Kosice 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 KSC
Long overnight layover? Your options at KSC include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Slovakia 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 Kosice 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.