A layover in Sivas is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Sivas Nuri DemiraÄ Airport sits just 70 minutes from the city center by local transport, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Pre-Departure Checklist
A few things to sort out before you leave VAS:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Turkey. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Sivas takes about 70 minutes by local transport. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Exploring Sivas on a Layover
For a layover visit to Sivas, we’d suggest Ãifte Minareli Medrese (Twin Minaret Madrasah) and Sivas Congress and Ethnography Museum. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at VAS, check out Primeclass Lounge VAS or Airport Souvenir & Local Products Shop to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
- In the city: Köfteci Necmi and Lezzet Lokantası are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Sivas.
- At the airport: Terminal Cafe and Sivas Bakery & Snacks will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Getting to Sivas from the Airport
You have two main options for getting from Sivas Nuri DemiraÄ Airport into town:
- local transport: About 70 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 90 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.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Sivas:
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.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at VAS may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Sivas’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and VAS is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Sivas 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.
Sleep & Lounge Options at VAS
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at VAS, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Sivas doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 70 minutes from VAS, 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.