For travelers with a layover in St-François, the proximity of SFC to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 30 minutes via Taxi, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
Pre-Departure Checklist
A few things to sort out before you leave SFC:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Guadeloupe. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to St-François 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.
The Best Way Into St-François from SFC
From SFC, the Taxi gets you to St-François 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.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into St-François might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$11 USD
- A meal: ~$22 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$43 USD
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in St-François.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in St-François:
Start with Plage des Salines. Worth checking out if your schedule allows. Then, if time allows, make your way to La Pointe des Châteaux. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in St-François.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside SFC, you can spend time at Airport Viewing Area or try Airport Refreshments Counter. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Best Bites Near SFC
For food in St-François, local travelers recommend Chez Eugénette. If you have time for a second stop, Le Zagaya is another popular pick.
Back at SFC, Aérodrome Snack & Juice Bar is the go-to. Airport Vending Services rounds out your in-terminal options.
Storing Your Luggage at St-François Airport
Specific locker facilities at SFC aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in St-François itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and SFC is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into St-François 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.
Taking a Break at SFC
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at SFC, 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 St-François doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 30 minutes from SFC, 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.