A long layover in the city is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Nan Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 40 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
A few things to sort out before you leave NNT:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Thailand. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to the city takes about 40 minutes by Taxi / Tuk-tuk. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is THB. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
What to See and Do in the city
If you head into the city, here are two things worth checking out:
Wat Phumin is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Nan National Museum is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside NNT, you can spend time at Nan Airport Waiting Area & WiFi or try Nan Local Products Shop. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food & Dining Options
In the city
If you make it into town, Khao Soi Ton Nam is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Huen Chao Nang.
Inside NNT
If you’re staying in the terminal, Nan Airport Coffee Shop is your main option. Airport Local Kitchen works too if you want something quick.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
From NNT, the Taxi / Tuk-tuk gets you to the city in around 40 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 60 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 / Tuk-tuk offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Quick budget math for your the city layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$5 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$20 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in the city, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Luggage Storage Options
Luggage storage is available at Not typically available at small regional airports like NNT. Travelers may inquire with airlines for temporary bag storage.. Drop your bags off early so you can explore hands-free.
Alternatively, third-party services like Bounce or Stasher can connect you with storage locations closer to wherever you’re headed in the city.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at NNT, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in the city itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Thailand that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, NNT has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in the city count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave NNT. 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.