A long layover in Yazd is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Shahid Sadooghi Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 50 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at AZD:
First, verify that you can enter Iran — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Airport Taxi takes about 50 minutes into Yazd, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — IRR is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some IRR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
The Best Way Into Yazd from AZD
From AZD, the Airport Taxi gets you to Yazd in around 50 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 70 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Airport Taxi offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Bag Storage Near AZD
Specific locker facilities at AZD aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Yazd itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
What to Budget for Your Yazd Side Trip
Quick budget math for your Yazd layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
What’s Worth Seeing in Yazd
Two recommendations for your time in Yazd:
Start with Amir Chakhmaq Complex. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Yazd. Then, if time allows, make your way to Jame Mosque of Yazd. The architecture is worth seeing, even from the outside.
If you’d rather stay inside AZD — 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:
- AZD Airport Waiting Area & Cafe
- Local Souvenir Kiosk
Best Bites Near AZD
- In the city: Khan Traditional Restaurant and Malek-o Tojjar Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Yazd.
- At the airport: AZD Airport Cafe and Terminal Snack Bar will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at AZD, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Yazd itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Iran that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Sleep & Lounge Options at AZD
Long overnight layover? Your options at AZD include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Iran also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Yazd 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 Yazd.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.