Bandar Seri Begawan Brunei Layover Guide (BWN)

What are you looking for in BWN?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money

Bandar Seri Begawan Airport (BWN) is an international airport located in Brunei Darussalam’s capital city. It’s situated about 8 km (5 miles) from downtown Bandar Seri Begawan. The airport officially opened in 1974. Bandar Seri Begawan is the largest city in Brunei and serves as its cultural and political center. The city is known for its stunning Islamic architecture, serene atmosphere, and a rich heritage blending tradition and modernity.

Can you leave Bandar Seri Begawan Airport (BWN) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
Passengers transiting through Bandar Seri Begawan Airport for under 24 hours can clear immigration and exit without a visa; those bound elsewhere may obtain a transit visa on arrival for up to 72 hours (excluding Cuba, Israel and North Korea; Bangladesh, India, Iran, Pakistan and Sri Lanka nationals require sponsorship) (more info).

Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing

Layover Guide Organized Tours

Brunei Airport Transfer

Enjoy a hassle-free private transfer from Brunei International Airport into Bandar Seri Begawan. Your professional chauffeur greets you on arrival, monitors your flight status, and drives you comfortably to anywhere in the city—ideal for making the most of a short layover without the stress of public transport or taxis » book this tour

Brunei: Batik Painting Workshop with Materials

Immerse yourself in Brunei’s vibrant batik tradition during this 2-hour hands-on workshop. Under expert guidance, sketch your design, apply hot-wax outlines, and dye fabric to create a unique batik masterpiece. All materials provided and suitable for beginners—take home your personalized artwork as a creative layover keepsake » book this tour

Brunei: Mother of Pearl Lazy Susan Crafting Workshop

Discover traditional mother-of-pearl inlay in this 2-hour artisanal workshop. Guided by skilled craftspeople, learn to assemble, polish, and finish your own elegant Lazy Susan. Perfect for a creative break during your layover, you’ll leave with a functional, handcrafted souvenir embodying Brunei’s rich artisanal heritage » book this tour

Layover Guide Things to do / Sightseeing

  • Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque Admire the stunning golden dome, marble minarets and ocean lagoon setting at this iconic Bruneian landmark. (Time required: 45 minutes. / Airport to here: taxi ~20 minutes.)
  • Kampong Ayer Water Village Explore the historic water village on wooden stilts, interact with local families and experience traditional living via a scenic longboat ride. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: taxi ~20 minutes + water taxi ~10 minutes.)
  • Royal Regalia Museum Browse dazzling royal artifacts, ceremonial thrones and regal costumes housed in this striking modern museum celebrating Brunei’s monarchy. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: taxi ~20 minutes.)
  • Malay Technology Museum Discover traditional Malay crafts, fishing vessels and agricultural displays showcasing Brunei’s cultural heritage through interactive exhibits. (Time required: 45 minutes. / Airport to here: taxi ~20 minutes.)
  • Tasek Lama Recreational Park Hike serene jungle trails, swim beneath a cascading waterfall and enjoy panoramic city views amid lush tropical greenery. (Time required: 1.5 hours. / Airport to here: taxi ~15 minutes.)
  • Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque Marvel at the grand mosque’s 29 golden domes, ornate facades and immaculately maintained grounds open to respectful visitors. (Time required: 30 minutes. / Airport to here: taxi ~25 minutes.)
  • Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex Shop exquisite local handicrafts, artisanal textiles and souvenirs at this state-of-the-art cultural centre showcasing Bruneian artisans. (Time required: 45 minutes. / Airport to here: taxi ~20 minutes.)
  • Brunei Maritime Museum Learn about Brunei’s seafaring history through exhibits of traditional vessels, maritime artifacts and interactive educational displays. (Time required: 45 minutes. / Airport to here: taxi ~20 minutes.)

Things to Do in Bandar Seri Begawan Airport (BWN)

Relaxing and Sleeping

Airport Lounges and Relaxing
Brunei International Airport features a Plaza Premium Lounge in departures offering comfortable seating, complimentary snacks, hot and cold beverages, high-speed Wi-Fi, shower suites, and business workstations. There’s also a smaller VIP lounge for Royal Brunei’s premium passengers, complete with refreshments and quiet zones for relaxation before departure. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online

Hotel and Sleeping
Several hotels lie within a 10-minute drive of BWN: The Rizqun International Hotel offers modern rooms and an outdoor pool; Radisson Brunei provides deluxe amenities and spa services; and The Empire Hotel & Country Club delivers luxury suites, golf, and beachfront access—all ideal for overnight stays. view all or book an airport hotel online

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Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
There are no dedicated rest zones or sleeping pods at BWN. Passengers sometimes catch brief naps on gate seating in the departure hall, but space is limited and security may clear the area after midnight. For uninterrupted rest, booking a nearby hotel or day-room is recommended.

WIFI/Internet and SIM Card

WIFI/Internet: Brunei International Airport provides free Wi-Fi for all travelers. Each session lasts up to 240 minutes, with unlimited reconnects allowed. Simply select the “BIA Free Wi-Fi” network on your device and follow on-screen instructions to stay connected throughout your time at the terminal.

SIM/eSIM Card: Upon arrival, purchase prepaid SIM cards from Imagine, Progresif, or DST kiosks in the arrivals hall. Presentation of your passport is required. Plans start at BND 15 for 45 GB (30-day validity). If you prefer eSIM, providers like Airalo offer digital plans that install instantly via QR code. » Find out where and how to buy SIM card/eSIM in our Bandar Seri Begawan Airport (BWN) sim/eSim page.

Transportation to/from airport

Taxi: A metered taxi rank stands just outside the arrivals exit. A standard trip to Bandar Seri Begawan city centre takes about 15 minutes and costs roughly BND 34. Taxis accept cash; you may also pre-book private transfers online for fixed rates and guaranteed vehicle type.

Train: Brunei International Airport has no rail connections. Brunei does not operate any passenger train services, so travelers must rely on road transport (taxis, buses, shuttles, or car rentals) to reach their destinations. (more info)

Bus: The government’s Franchise Bus service (Eastern Line in royal blue and Northern Line in green) stops at the terminal forecourt. Operating from 06:00 to 20:00, buses run approximately hourly; a single ride to the city centre costs BND 1. (more info)

Shuttle: BWN offers no official airport-wide shuttle. However, several nearby hotels (e.g., The Empire, Radisson) provide complimentary or paid shuttle services for guests. Check with your accommodation in advance to arrange pick-up or drop-off at the terminal.

Car rentals: Hertz and Avis counters are located in the arrivals hall beside baggage claim. Rental vehicles park in the adjacent lot outside. A valid driver’s license and credit card are required; counter staff operate 24/7 for pick-up and drop-off. view available cars or rent a car now online

Parking: The airport offers short-term and long-term parking directly opposite the terminal. The first 15 minutes are free; thereafter it’s BND 0.50 per hour, with a daily maximum of BND 6. Covered and open-air spaces accommodate up to 1,740 vehicles.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

There are no official luggage storage facilities or lockers at BWN. Passengers requiring secure baggage holding may use hotel concierge services or the Plaza Premium Lounge’s baggage service (for lounge guests) to store items temporarily. » book a luggage storage or locker at online (subject to availability).

Money Exchange and Withdrawal

- Bandar Seri Begawan Airport (BWN) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks