A long layover in Villa Garzon is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Villa Garzón 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
Before heading into Villa Garzon, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Colombia vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Villa Garzon is roughly 40 minutes from VGZ via Taxi/Shared Van. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in COP. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some COP in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting to Villa Garzon from the Airport
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi/Shared Van | ~40 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~60 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi/Shared Van is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
If you head into Villa Garzon, here are two things worth checking out:
Parque Principal Villa Garzón is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Iglesia Nuestra Señora del Carmen is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside VGZ, you can spend time at VGZ Main Waiting Area or try Regional Souvenir Kiosk. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Best Bites Near VGZ
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Villa Garzon: Restaurante Donde El Mono and Asadero El Fogón de Lucy. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Aeropuerto Express Café or Grab & Go Snacks. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Villa Garzon might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$7 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$22 USD
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Villa Garzon.
Luggage Storage at VGZ
Dedicated luggage storage at VGZ may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Villa Garzon’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at VGZ for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Villa Garzon 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.
Resting at the Airport
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, VGZ 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 Villa Garzon count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave VGZ. 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.