If you’ve got a layover in Xinyuan, don’t let it go to waste sitting at NLT. The city, in China, is within easy reach — roughly 40 minutes by Taxi / Local Bus. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at NLT:
First, verify that you can enter China — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi / Local Bus takes about 40 minutes into Xinyuan, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — CNY is the currency here. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Getting from NLT to Xinyuan
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi / Local Bus | ~40 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~60 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi / Local Bus 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 Xinyuan, here are two things worth checking out:
Nalati Grassland Scenic Area Entrance is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Xinyuan.
Nalati Short Horse Ride is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
If you’d rather stay inside NLT — 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:
- NLT Terminal Waiting Area
- Nalati Airport Souvenir Shop
Best Bites Near NLT
- In the city: Nalati Kazakh Flavor Restaurant and Xinjiang BBQ & Skewers are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Xinyuan.
- At the airport: NLT Airport Cafeteria and NLT Coffee & Snack Corner will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
What to Budget for Your Xinyuan Side Trip
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Xinyuan:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $9 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $24 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at NLT aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Xinyuan itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
WiFi at NLT should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in China and you’re good to go.
Taking a Break at NLT
Long overnight layover? Your options at NLT include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in China also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Xinyuan count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave NLT. 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.