A long layover in Magdeburg is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Magdeburg City Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 70 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Before You Step Outside ZMG
Three things to verify before you walk out of ZMG:
- Can you legally enter Germany? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 70-minute journey each way by Local Bus and Tram/Train, 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.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Magdeburg:
Start with Magdeburg Cathedral (Dom zu Magdeburg). The architecture is worth seeing, even from the outside. Then, if time allows, make your way to Green Citadel of Magdeburg (Grüne Zitadelle). It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Magdeburg.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at ZMG, check out Aircraft Spotting at ZMG or Magdeburg Aeroclub Visitor Area to keep yourself occupied.
Best Bites Near ZMG
- In the city: Hyde Park Restaurant and ALEX Magdeburg are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Magdeburg.
- At the airport: Restaurant Elbe-Flieger and Gaststätte Zum Anker will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Transport from Magdeburg City Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Magdeburg City Airport into town:
- Local Bus and Tram/Train: About 70 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 90 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.
Money & Budget Tips
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Magdeburg, 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.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Luggage Storage at ZMG
Dedicated luggage storage at ZMG may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Magdeburg’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 ZMG is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Magdeburg 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 ZMG include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Germany also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Magdeburg count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave ZMG. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.