A long layover in Padang Sidempuan is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Aek Godang Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 80 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Before You Step Outside AEG
Before heading into Padang Sidempuan, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Indonesia vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Padang Sidempuan is roughly 80 minutes from AEG via Taxi / Ride-hailing. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in IDR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some IDR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
The Best Way Into Padang Sidempuan from AEG
From AEG, the Taxi / Ride-hailing gets you to Padang Sidempuan in around 80 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 100 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi / Ride-hailing offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Padang Sidempuan, here are two things worth checking out:
City Center Walk is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe.
Local Market is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Great for picking up a quick snack or souvenir between flights.
If you’d rather stay inside AEG — 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:
- Airport Lounge
- Duty Free Shopping
Food & Dining Options
In Padang Sidempuan
If you make it into town, Local Restaurant is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Popular Eatery.
Inside AEG
If you’re staying in the terminal, Airport Cafe is your main option. Terminal Restaurant works too if you want something quick.
Planning Your Layover Spending
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Padang Sidempuan:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $5 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $20 USD total.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Padang Sidempuan.
Bag Storage Near AEG
Specific locker facilities at AEG aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Padang Sidempuan itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at AEG for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Padang Sidempuan 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.
Need a Nap? Options at AEG
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at AEG, 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.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Padang Sidempuan exploring the streets or relaxing at AEG, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.