Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Topel gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from KCO to the city takes roughly 100 minutes by local transport, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Before heading into Topel, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Turkey vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Topel is roughly 100 minutes from KCO via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting to Topel from the Airport
From KCO, the local transport gets you to Topel in around 100 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 120 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Topel:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $20 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $40 USD total.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Topel, we’d suggest Sekapark and Kocaeli Clock Tower & Fevziye Mosque. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight. A peaceful stop that offers a break from the rush of travel.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside KCO, you can spend time at Main Terminal Waiting Area or try Airport Cafe Relaxation Spot. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Eating Well on a Topel Layover
- In the city: Gültekin Izgara Köfte & CiÄer and Kocaeli Balık Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Topel.
- At the airport: Havalimanı Cafe (Airport Cafe) and Quick Bites Kiosk will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at KCO aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Topel itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at KCO for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Topel 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.
Taking a Break at KCO
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at KCO, 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 Topel with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Topel 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.