Passing through Stara Zagora Airport? A layover in Stara Zagora is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 60 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
A few things to sort out before you leave SZR:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Bulgaria. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Stara Zagora takes about 60 minutes by Taxi. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is BGN. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
How to Get Into Stara Zagora
You have two main options for getting from Stara Zagora Airport into town:
- Taxi: About 60 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 80 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.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Stara Zagora might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$6 USD
- A meal: ~$11 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$27 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at SZR aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Stara Zagora itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Stara Zagora, we’d suggest Ancient Forum of Augusta Traiana and Museum of Religions. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside SZR, you can spend time at Stara Zagora Airport Terminal Waiting Area or try Aircraft Viewing Point (Outdoor). Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
For food in Stara Zagora, local travelers recommend Na Krivak. If you have time for a second stop, Uniqato Restaurant & Bar is another popular pick.
Back at SZR, Airport Snack & Beverage Point is the go-to. Vending Machine Corner rounds out your in-terminal options.
Sleep & Lounge Options at SZR
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at SZR, 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
Free WiFi is generally available at SZR, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Stara Zagora itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Bulgaria that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Stara Zagora doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 60 minutes from SZR, 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.
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.