If you’ve got a layover in Medan, don’t let it go to waste sitting at KNO. The city, in Indonesia, is within easy reach — roughly 90 minutes by Airport Railink (KA Bandara). Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Before You Step Outside KNO
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at KNO:
First, verify that you can enter Indonesia — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Airport Railink (KA Bandara) takes about 90 minutes into Medan, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — IDR is the currency here. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
How to Spend Your Time in Medan
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Medan, two standouts are:
- Maimun Palace (Istana Maimun) — A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
- Great Mosque of Medan (Masjid Raya Al-Mashun) — Respectful visitors are generally welcome for a quick look.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside KNO, you can spend time at Kualanamu Airport Hotel or try Saphire Lounge (KNO). Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Getting to Medan from the Airport
From KNO, the Airport Railink (KA Bandara) gets you to Medan in around 90 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 110 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Airport Railink (KA Bandara) offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Food & Dining Options
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Medan: Mie Aceh Titi Bobrok and Soto Medan Sinar Pagi. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for A&W Restaurants (KNO) or Starbucks (KNO). Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Medan might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$5 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$20 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Medan, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at KNO for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Medan 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.
Storing Your Luggage at Kualanamu International Airport
Specific locker facilities at KNO aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Medan itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Resting at the Airport
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at KNO.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Medan 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 Medan.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.