Passing through Malatya Erhaç Airport? A layover in Malatya is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 100 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.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at MLX:
First, verify that you can enter Turkey — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the HavaÅ Airport Shuttle takes about 100 minutes into Malatya, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — TRY is the currency here. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
The Best Way Into Malatya from MLX
You have two main options for getting from Malatya Erhaç Airport into town:
- HavaÅ Airport Shuttle: About 100 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 120 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.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Malatya might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$7 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$22 USD
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Malatya.
Storing Your Luggage at Malatya Erhaç Airport
Luggage storage options at MLX can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Malatya for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
How to Spend Your Time in Malatya
Two recommendations for your time in Malatya:
Start with Malatya Museum. Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history. Then, if time allows, make your way to Åire Pazarı (Apricot Market). Great for picking up a quick snack or souvenir between flights.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside MLX, you can spend time at Primeclass Lounge or try Malatya Local Products Shop. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Grab a Meal
In Malatya
If you make it into town, Hacıbaba Et Lokantası is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Ãmer Usta’nın Yeri.
Inside MLX
If you’re staying in the terminal, Terminal Cafe & Restaurant is your main option. Airport Snack Bar works too if you want something quick.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at MLX include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Turkey also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at MLX, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Malatya itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Turkey that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Malatya is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Malatya.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.