Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Simferopol gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from SIP to the city takes roughly 60 minutes by local transport, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Important Details Before You Go
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at SIP:
First, verify that you can enter Ukraine — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the local transport takes about 60 minutes into Simferopol, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — local currency is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
If you head into Simferopol, here are two things worth checking out:
Neapolis Scythian (Scythian Naples) is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Gagarin Park (Park Imeni Gagarina) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Nice green space that’s easy to enjoy without a tight schedule.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside SIP, you can spend time at Business Lounge (Simferopol Airport) or try Simferopol Airport Duty-Free. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Simferopol: Pushkin Restaurant and Chaikhana Cheburechnaya Lazzat. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Coffee Point or Crimean Dishes Express. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Simferopol International Airport into town:
- local transport: About 60 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 80 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Simferopol might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Simferopol.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage options at SIP 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 Simferopol for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and SIP is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Simferopol and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Rest Areas & Lounges
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at SIP.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Simferopol exploring the streets or relaxing at SIP, 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.