There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Orsta-Volda into a quick city adventure. From HOV, the local transport can get you into town in around 70 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Before heading into Orsta-Volda, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Norway vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Orsta-Volda is roughly 70 minutes from HOV via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in 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 Orsta-Volda from the Airport
You have two main options for getting from Ãrsta-Volda Airport, Hovden into town:
- local transport: About 70 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 90 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.
What to Budget for Your Orsta-Volda Side Trip
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Orsta-Volda, 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 Orsta-Volda, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at HOV may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Orsta-Volda’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.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Orsta-Volda, here are two things worth checking out:
Explore Volda Town Center is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Ãrsta Fjord Promenade is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. No tickets or reservations needed — just explore at your own pace.
If you’d rather stay inside HOV — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Hovden Airport Terminal Relaxation
- Scenic Fjord Views from Terminal
Food & Dining Options
- In the city: Møregata Pizza & Grill and Pizzeria Venezia Ãrsta are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Orsta-Volda.
- At the airport: Hovden Airport Kiosk – Hot Food and Hovden Airport Kiosk – Coffee & Pastry will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, HOV 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
You’ll find free WiFi at HOV for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Orsta-Volda 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.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Orsta-Volda count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave HOV. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.