There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Sanliurfa into a quick city adventure. From GNY, the HavaÅ Shuttle can get you into town in around 100 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Before You Step Outside GNY
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at GNY:
First, verify that you can enter Turkey — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the HavaÅ Shuttle takes about 100 minutes into Sanliurfa, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — TRY is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some TRY in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Åanlıurfa GAP Airport to Downtown
From GNY, the HavaÅ Shuttle gets you to Sanliurfa in around 100 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 120 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the HavaÅ Shuttle offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What to Budget for Your Sanliurfa Side Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Sanliurfa might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$8 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$23 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Sanliurfa, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Luggage Storage Options
Traveling light makes a layover outing much easier. At GNY, you’ll find bag storage at Not available.
Tip: store your bags as soon as you clear arrivals to maximize your free time. If the airport options don’t work for you, check online luggage storage platforms for alternatives near the city center.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Sanliurfa:
Start with Balıklıgöl (Pool of Abraham). It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Sanliurfa. Then, if time allows, make your way to Åanlıurfa Archaeology and Mosaic Museum. You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at GNY, check out Åanlıurfa GAP Airport CIP Lounge or Local Souvenir Shops to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Eat
- In the city: Cevahir Han Restoran and Gümrük Hanı are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Sanliurfa.
- At the airport: GAP Airport Cafe & Buffet and Snack Bar (GNY) will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Sleep & Lounge Options at GNY
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, GNY 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.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at GNY, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Sanliurfa itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Turkey that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Sanliurfa count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave GNY. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.