A layover in Matsu Islands is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Matsu Nangan Airport sits just 60 minutes from the city center by local transport, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Three things to verify before you walk out of LZN:
- Can you legally enter Taiwan? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 60-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.
Getting to Matsu Islands from the Airport
From LZN, the local transport gets you to Matsu Islands 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 local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Matsu Islands, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Matsu Islands, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Luggage Storage at LZN
Luggage storage options at LZN 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 Matsu Islands for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
How to Spend Your Time in Matsu Islands
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Matsu Islands, two standouts are:
- Dahan Stronghold — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Matsu Islands.
- Iron Fort — A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside LZN, you can spend time at Matsu Nangan Airport Scenic Viewpoint or try Matsu Nangan Airport Souvenir Shop. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
- In the city: Jiuzhongling Guesthouse Restaurant and Beihai Keng Seafood Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Matsu Islands.
- At the airport: Matsu Nangan Airport Cafe and Matsu Specialty Snack Counter will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, LZN 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.
Staying Connected
WiFi at LZN 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 Taiwan and you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Matsu Islands doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 60 minutes from LZN, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.