Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Mary gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from MYP to the city takes roughly 35 minutes by local transport, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Three things to verify before you walk out of MYP:
- Can you legally enter Turkmenistan? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 35-minute journey each way by local transport, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
For a layover visit to Mary, we’d suggest Ancient Merv (UNESCO World Heritage Site) and Mary History Museum. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at MYP, check out Mary Airport VIP Lounge or Duty-Free & Souvenir Shop to keep yourself occupied.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
The most straightforward way into Mary is the local transport, which takes about 35 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 55 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the local transport is usually the smarter call.
Best Bites Near MYP
In Mary
If you make it into town, Dostluk Restaurant is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Mary Restaurant.
Inside MYP
If you’re staying in the terminal, Airport Cafe & Snack Bar is your main option. Airport Restaurant (Main Terminal) works too if you want something quick.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Mary layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at MYP for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Mary 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.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at MYP aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Mary itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, MYP 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
Whether you spend your layover in Mary exploring the streets or relaxing at MYP, 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.