Passing through Peshawar International Airport? A layover in Peshawar is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 40 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Before You Step Outside PEW
Before heading into Peshawar, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Pakistan vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Peshawar is roughly 40 minutes from PEW via Local Taxis & Rickshaws. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in PKR. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Exploring Peshawar on a Layover
For a layover visit to Peshawar, we’d suggest Peshawar Museum and Qissa Khwani Bazaar. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare. Great for picking up a quick snack or souvenir between flights.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside PEW, you can spend time at PIA Business Class Lounge or try Duty-Free & Souvenir Shops. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Peshawar: Nisar Charsi Tikka and Jalil Kabab House. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Canteen or Aroma Cafe (Airport Branch). Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
The Best Way Into Peshawar from PEW
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Taxis & Rickshaws | ~40 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~60 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Local Taxis & Rickshaws 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.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Peshawar might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$5 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$20 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Luggage Storage at PEW
Dedicated luggage storage at PEW may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Peshawar’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.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at PEW, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Peshawar itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Pakistan that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Sleep & Lounge Options at PEW
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, PEW 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 Peshawar doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 40 minutes from PEW, 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.