For travelers with a layover in St.-pierre, the proximity of ZSE to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 50 minutes via Taxi or Local Bus, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Before heading into St.-pierre, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Reunion vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: St.-pierre is roughly 50 minutes from ZSE via Taxi or Local Bus. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from ZSE to St.-pierre
From ZSE, the Taxi or Local Bus gets you to St.-pierre in around 50 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 70 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 or Local Bus offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What to See and Do in St.-pierre
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In St.-pierre, two standouts are:
- St-Pierre City Center and Seafront — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in St.-pierre.
- Plage de Saint-Pierre — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside ZSE, you can spend time at La Boutique Pierrefonds or try Espace Wi-Fi & Détente. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Grab a Meal
For food in St.-pierre, local travelers recommend Le Dôme. If you have time for a second stop, L’Usine à Chapeaux is another popular pick.
Back at ZSE, Cafétéria de l’Aéroport Pierrefonds is the go-to. Coin Café Express rounds out your in-terminal options.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into St.-pierre might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$11 USD
- A meal: ~$22 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$43 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Bag Storage Near ZSE
Luggage storage options at ZSE 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 St.-pierre 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 ZSE for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate St.-pierre 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.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at ZSE, 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
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in St.-pierre count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave ZSE. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.