A layover in Van is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Van Ferit Melen Airport sits just 60 minutes from the city center by Public Bus / Taxi, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
A few things to sort out before you leave VAN:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Turkey. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Van takes about 60 minutes by Public Bus / Taxi. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is TRY. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Getting to Van from the Airport
You have two main options for getting from Van Ferit Melen Airport into town:
- Public Bus / 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.
Bag Storage Near VAN
Luggage storage options at VAN 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 Van for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
What to Budget for Your Van Side Trip
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Van, budget roughly $23 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $8 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Exploring Van on a Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Van, two standouts are:
- Van Castle (Van Kalesi) — History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds.
- Van Museum (Van Müzesi) — You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside VAN — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Primeclass Lounge
- Airport Souvenir and Local Products Shop
Eating Well on a Van Layover
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Van: Sutcu Fevzi and Kevser Restaurant. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Cafe & Restaurant or Terminal Patisserie & Bakery. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and VAN is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Van 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.
Need a Nap? Options at VAN
Long overnight layover? Your options at VAN include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Turkey also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Van is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Van.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.