Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Piura gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from PIU to the city takes roughly 40 minutes by Taxi / Combi, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Three things to verify before you walk out of PIU:
- Can you legally enter Peru? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 40-minute journey each way by Taxi / Combi, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the PEN. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
How to Get Into Piura
From PIU, the Taxi / Combi gets you to Piura in around 40 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 60 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 / Combi offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
How to Spend Your Time in Piura
If you head into Piura, here are two things worth checking out:
Plaza de Armas de Piura is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Piura.
BasÃlica Catedral de Piura is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
If you’d rather stay inside PIU — 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:
- Relax in the General Waiting Area
- Browse Small Local Souvenir Kiosks
Eating Well on a Piura Layover
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Piura: El Churre and La Casona. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for CafeterÃa y Restaurante Aeropuerto or Snack & Juice Kiosks. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Money & Budget Tips
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Piura might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$10 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$25 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at PIU aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Piura itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
WiFi at PIU 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 Peru and you’re good to go.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Long overnight layover? Your options at PIU include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Peru also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Piura with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Piura 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.