Sleeping inside or in nearby hotels at ESB Airport

  Overnight layover guide: sleeping options in the public area and the boarding area

Spending the night at Ankara Airport is a common option for travellers with connecting flights or early morning departures. Although the terminal is modern, spacious and secure, comfort for overnight stays is limited due to the design of the seating.

What to expect when staying overnight at ESB

The airport operates continuously 24 hours a day. It is a well-lit and monitored environment, which provides a sense of safety, although it also means constant noise from public announcements and passenger traffic. The use of earplugs and an eye mask is recommended to improve rest.

Rest areas

Most seats in the public and boarding areas are made of metal and have fixed armrests, making it difficult to lie across multiple seats. However, there are some key points to consider:

• Boarding areas: In the airside zone (after security), there are some areas with recliner-style seats or slightly more padded chairs, although they tend to fill up quickly.
• Floor: If you plan to sleep on the floor, it is essential to bring a blanket or sleeping bag, as the marble/tiled floor is very cold and the air conditioning is usually set low during the night.
• VIP lounges: The Primeclass Lounge in both areas operates 24 hours. They are the most comfortable option if you have membership or are willing to pay for access, although stays are usually limited to 3 hours.

24-hour services available

For those spending the night, the airport ensures access to essential services without interruption:

• Dining: Outlets such as Starbucks and some cafés in the boarding area remain open 24 hours.
• Finance: Currency exchange offices and ATMs are operational throughout the night in both arrivals and departures areas.
• Luggage storage: If you prefer to rest without worrying about your bags, the left luggage service in the domestic arrivals hall is open 24 hours.
• Health and wellbeing: The first aid clinic (Portclinic) and prayer rooms (masjids) are always accessible.

Showers

There are no public shower facilities in the general areas of the terminal. Access to showers is restricted exclusively to users of the Primeclass Lounge (international sector).

Connectivity

The airport offers free and unlimited Wi-Fi, which requires a code sent via SMS or by scanning your passport at the dedicated kiosks located throughout the terminal.

Safety tip: As in any public space, keep your belongings within sight or use luggage storage services. Using locks and keeping valuables in a small bag secured close to your body is recommended.

 Hotels

Although Ankara Airport does not have hotels physically located within its terminal, passengers can find several high-quality accommodation options in the immediate vicinity (Saray–Esenboğa area). Most of these establishments offer shuttle services upon request.

Nearby Hotels

• ibis Ankara Airport: This represents the most efficient and affordable option for short stays, standing out for its proximity and the guarantee of a standard of rest aligned with international quality, just a few minutes from the runways.
• Anadolu Hotels Esenboğa Thermal: Offers a distinctive advantage for passengers with long layovers, as it provides access to a thermal spa complex, spa facilities, and extensive recreational areas for deep relaxation before the next flight.
• Holiday Inn Express - Ankara - Airport: A preferred choice for business travellers, offering a professional environment with high-speed connectivity and Express breakfasts designed for those with a tight schedule.
• Dr Aslan Apart Hotel: Provides a more spacious and independent setting in an apartment-style format, which is a significant advantage for families or groups seeking greater privacy and home-like comfort near the airport.

Note: It is recommended to contact your chosen hotel before arrival to check availability and the schedule of free or paid shuttle services.