There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Ovda into a quick city adventure. From VDA, the Egged Bus can get you into town in around 110 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Three things to verify before you walk out of VDA:
- Can you legally enter Israel? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 110-minute journey each way by Egged Bus, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the ILS. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
Exploring Ovda on a Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Ovda:
Start with Coral Beach Nature Reserve. Perfect for a short walk when you need fresh air after a long flight. Then, if time allows, make your way to Dolphin Reef Eilat. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside VDA, you can spend time at Fattal VIP Lounge or try Ramon Airport Duty-Free Shopping. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Getting from VDA to Ovda
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Egged Bus | ~110 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~130 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Egged Bus is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Eating Well on a Ovda Layover
In Ovda
If you make it into town, Pagoda Restaurant Eilat is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Pastory Eilat.
Inside VDA
If you’re staying in the terminal, Arcaffe Ramon Airport is your main option. Burger King Ramon Airport works too if you want something quick.
What to Budget for Your Ovda Side Trip
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Ovda:
Transport to the city and back runs about $14 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $27 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $51 USD total.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Staying Connected
WiFi at VDA 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 Israel and you’re good to go.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at VDA may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Ovda’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.
Sleep & Lounge Options at VDA
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, VDA 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.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Ovda with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Ovda may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.