There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Sligo into a quick city adventure. From SXL, the Taxi can get you into town in around 30 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
A few things to sort out before you leave SXL:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Ireland. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Sligo takes about 30 minutes by Taxi. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
From SXL, the Taxi gets you to Sligo in around 30 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 50 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Quick budget math for your Sligo layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$11 |
| Meal | ~$22 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$43 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Luggage Storage Options
Luggage storage options at SXL 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 Sligo for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Sligo, here are two things worth checking out:
Strandhill Beach & Surfing is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Perfect for a short walk when you need fresh air after a long flight.
Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Sligo.
If you’d rather stay inside SXL — 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:
- Sligo Aero Club
- Sligo Airport Terminal Waiting Area
Food & Dining Options
For food in Sligo, local travelers recommend Eala Bhán. If you have time for a second stop, Hooked is another popular pick.
Back at SXL, Shells Cafe is the go-to. The Strand Bar rounds out your in-terminal options.
Taking a Break at SXL
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at SXL, 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.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at SXL for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Sligo 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.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Sligo doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 30 minutes from SXL, 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.