There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Merville into a quick city adventure. From HZB, the Taxi can get you into town in around 40 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Important Details Before You Go
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at HZB:
First, verify that you can enter France — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi takes about 40 minutes into Merville, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — EUR is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from HZB to Merville
You have two main options for getting from Merville-Calonne Airport into town:
- Taxi: About 40 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 60 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
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Merville might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Merville, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at HZB may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Merville’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.
Exploring Merville on a Layover
If you head into Merville, here are two things worth checking out:
Merville Communal Cemetery Extension is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Merville.
Ãglise Saint-Jacques de Merville is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Merville.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside HZB, you can spend time at Aircraft Activity Observation or try Aéro-Club Merville-Calonne Visitor Area. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
For food in Merville, local travelers recommend L’Auberge de la Pomme d’Or. If you have time for a second stop, Le Commerce is another popular pick.
Back at HZB, Aéro-Club Merville Snack Bar is the go-to. Airport Coffee & Refreshments Corner rounds out your in-terminal options.
Need a Nap? Options at HZB
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at HZB, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at HZB, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Merville itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for France that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Merville doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 40 minutes from HZB, 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.