Passing through Richmond Airport? A layover in Richmond is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 30 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.
Important Details Before You Go
Before heading into Richmond, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Australia vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Richmond is roughly 30 minutes from RCM via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in AUD. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Things to Do During Your Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Richmond, two standouts are:
- Kronosaurus Korner — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
- Lake Fred Tritton — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Richmond.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside RCM — 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:
- Terminal Waiting Area
- Local Information Display
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
The most straightforward way into Richmond is the local transport, which takes about 30 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 50 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the local transport is usually the smarter call.
Food & Dining Options
- In the city: Richmond Hotel Motel Bistro and Bushlander Bar & Grill are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Richmond.
- At the airport: Airport Vending Machines and Bring Your Own Snacks Area will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Richmond might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$9 USD
- A meal: ~$17 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$36 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at RCM, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Richmond itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Australia that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at RCM aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Richmond itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Taking a Break at RCM
Long overnight layover? Your options at RCM include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Australia also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Richmond exploring the streets or relaxing at RCM, 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.