A long layover in Sanandaj is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Sanandaj Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 60 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Important Details Before You Go
Before heading into Sanandaj, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Iran vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Sanandaj is roughly 60 minutes from SDG via Taxi / Savari. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in IRR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some IRR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Spend Your Time in Sanandaj
Two recommendations for your time in Sanandaj:
Start with Sanandaj Bazaar. The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything. Then, if time allows, make your way to Khane Kurd (Kurdistan House). Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside SDG, you can spend time at Comfortable Waiting Area or try Airport Cafe & Snacks. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Grab a Meal
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Sanandaj: Banoosh Traditional Restaurant and Sarv Cafe. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Cafe & Snacks or Terminal Food Kiosk. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
The Best Way Into Sanandaj from SDG
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi / Savari | ~60 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~80 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi / Savari 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.
Planning Your Layover Spending
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Sanandaj:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $20 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $40 USD total.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Luggage Storage Options
Luggage storage options at SDG can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Sanandaj for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at SDG for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Sanandaj 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.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at SDG include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Iran also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Sanandaj doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 60 minutes from SDG, 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.