A layover in Sohag is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Sohag International Airport sits just 80 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
Three things to verify before you walk out of HMB:
- Can you legally enter Egypt? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 80-minute journey each way by local transport, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the 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 Sohag on a Layover
For a layover visit to Sohag, we’d suggest Sohag National Museum and Sohag Corniche. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside HMB, you can spend time at HMB Executive Lounge or try Sohag Duty-Free Shop. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food Worth Trying
- In the city: El Gandoul Restaurant and Nile Dream Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Sohag.
- At the airport: Sohag Airport Cafe and Sohag Airport Snack Bar will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
The Best Way Into Sohag from HMB
You have two main options for getting from Sohag International Airport into town:
- local transport: About 80 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 100 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.
Planning Your Layover Spending
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Sohag:
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.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Sohag, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Storing Your Luggage at Sohag International Airport
Luggage storage options at HMB 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 Sohag 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 HMB for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Sohag 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.
Taking a Break at HMB
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at HMB, 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 Sohag doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 80 minutes from HMB, 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.