A long layover in Launceston is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Launceston Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 60 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Before You Step Outside LST
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at LST:
First, verify that you can enter Australia — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Public Bus takes about 60 minutes into Launceston, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — AUD is the currency here. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
The Best Way Into Launceston from LST
From LST, the Public Bus gets you to Launceston in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Public Bus offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Bag Storage Near LST
Specific locker facilities at LST aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Launceston itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Launceston might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$9 USD
- A meal: ~$17 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$36 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
How to Spend Your Time in Launceston
If you head into Launceston, here are two things worth checking out:
Cataract Gorge Reserve is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Queen Victoria Museum & Art Gallery (Royal Park) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside LST, you can spend time at Launceston Airport Newsagency or try Free Wi-Fi & Device Charging. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food & Dining Options
For food in Launceston, local travelers recommend Stillwater Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, Black Cow Bistro is another popular pick.
Back at LST, Altitude Cafe (Launceston Airport) is the go-to. Departure Lounge Bar (Launceston Airport) rounds out your in-terminal options.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at LST for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Launceston 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.
Sleep & Lounge Options at LST
Long overnight layover? Your options at LST include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Australia also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Launceston exploring the streets or relaxing at LST, 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.