If you’ve got a layover in Montauban, don’t let it go to waste sitting at XMW. The city, in France, is within easy reach — roughly 30 minutes by Taxi / Rideshare. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of XMW:
- Can you legally enter France? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 30-minute journey each way by Taxi / Rideshare, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
The most straightforward way into Montauban is the Taxi / Rideshare, which takes about 30 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 50 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi / Rideshare is usually the smarter call.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Montauban, 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.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Bag Storage Near XMW
Specific locker facilities at XMW aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Montauban itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
If you head into Montauban, here are two things worth checking out:
Place Nationale is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Musée Ingres Bourdelle is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at XMW, check out General Aviation Observation Area or Airport Snack & Coffee Bar to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Eat
- In the city: Le Bistrot Saveurs and L’Estanquet are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Montauban.
- At the airport: Restaurant L’Aérogare and Airport Snack & Coffee Bar will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Taking a Break at XMW
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 XMW.
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.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and XMW is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Montauban and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Montauban 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 Montauban.
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.