Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Lvov. Lviv International Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 70 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
A few things to sort out before you leave LWO:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Ukraine. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Lvov takes about 70 minutes by Public Bus / Trolleybus / Marshrutka. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is UAH. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some UAH in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Lvov, we’d suggest Rynok Square and Lviv National Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside LWO, you can spend time at LWO Business Lounge or try Duty-Free Shop LWO. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Bus / Trolleybus / Marshrutka | ~70 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~90 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Public Bus / Trolleybus / Marshrutka is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Eating Well on a Lvov Layover
For food in Lvov, local travelers recommend Pravda Beer Theatre. If you have time for a second stop, Baczewski Restaurant is another popular pick.
Back at LWO, Lviv Coffee Manufactory is the go-to. Lvivsky Ekspres rounds out your in-terminal options.
What to Budget for Your Lvov Side Trip
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Lvov:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $7 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $22 USD total.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Staying Connected
WiFi at LWO should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Ukraine and you’re good to go.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage is available at Not reliably available or publicly advertised; inquire at airport information desk upon arrival.. 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 Lvov.
Resting at the Airport
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, LWO has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Lvov 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.