Passing through Solovki Airport? A layover in Solovetsky Islands is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 30 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Three things to verify before you walk out of CSH:
- Can you legally enter Russia? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 30-minute journey each way by Local taxi / Walking, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the RUB. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some RUB in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting to Solovetsky Islands from the Airport
The most straightforward way into Solovetsky Islands is the Local taxi / Walking, which takes about 30 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 50 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Local taxi / Walking is usually the smarter call.
Luggage Storage at CSH
Dedicated luggage storage at CSH may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Solovetsky Islands’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.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Solovetsky Islands might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$6 USD
- A meal: ~$11 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$27 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
What’s Worth Seeing in Solovetsky Islands
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Solovetsky Islands, two standouts are:
- Solovetsky Monastery — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
- Gulag History Exhibition — Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at CSH, check out Airport Waiting Area Relaxation or Tarmac View and Local Aircraft Spotting to keep yourself occupied.
Food & Dining Options
For food in Solovetsky Islands, local travelers recommend Cafe Priyut. If you have time for a second stop, Trapeznaya Restaurant is another popular pick.
Back at CSH, Airport Cafe ‘Aeroport’ is the go-to. Terminal Snack Kiosk rounds out your in-terminal options.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at CSH, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Solovetsky Islands itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Russia that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Resting at the Airport
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 CSH.
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
A layover in Solovetsky Islands with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Solovetsky Islands may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.