24-Hour Layover in Nashville: What To Do
Nashville International Airport (BNA) · USA
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Key Facts
- Airport: Nashville International Airport (BNA)
- Country: USA
- Layover window: 24 hours
- Recommended time outside: 18–20 hours — treat it as a mini trip
- Visa & Entry: Same USA rules — ESTA or visa required. Hub for low-cost carriers + Delta connection.
Insider Tip
BNA is 13km from downtown — WeGo route 18 (USD 2, 40 min) or Uber (USD 30-50). For 4+ hour layovers: Uber + Broadway honky-tonk crawl + hot chicken + Country Music Hall of Fame is iconic.
Getting to Nashville City Centre
| Mode | Cost | Time |
|---|---|---|
| WeGo Public Transit route 18 | USD 2 | 40 min |
| Taxi / Uber / Lyft | USD 30–50 | 15–25 min |
Top Nashville: Where to Go
Broadway (honky-tonk bars + Country Music Hall of Fame)
25 min from city centreNashville's iconic 5-block downtown strip with live country music in every bar (free cover). Free walking + tipping bands. Lower Broadway is the move.
Country Music Hall of Fame
25 min from city centrePremier country music museum. USD 32. 2-3 hours. Pairs with Johnny Cash Museum (USD 25) + Patsy Cline Museum (USD 20) nearby.
Grand Ole Opry House + Opryland Hotel
25 min from city centreWorld's most-famous country music venue. Backstage tours USD 35. The Opryland Hotel next door is iconic (free to walk through).
The Gulch + 12 South + East Nashville
25 min from city centreHip Nashville neighbourhoods. Free walking. The Gulch for cocktails + 12 South for craft retail + East Nashville for craft beer.
Eat Like a Local in Nashville
Hot chicken (Nashville invention) at Hattie B's Hot Chicken (the original) or Prince's. BBQ at Edley's. Biscuits + gravy at Biscuit Love. Beverages: Yazoo + Tennessee whiskey (George Dickel).
24-Hour Itinerary
Day 1 — Morning
Check into hotel near city centre
Book a hotel within 15 min of the main sights. Luggage storage available at most hotels even before check-in.
Day 1 — Midday
Nashville signature experience
Use your first afternoon for the city's #1 must-see. Tiredness catches up later.
Day 1 — Evening
Local dinner and evening market or rooftop bar
Evening markets, floating markets, and night bazaars are peak atmosphere. Do this on day 1.
Day 2 — Morning
Second neighbourhood exploration
Mornings offer better light for photos, cooler weather, and fewer tourists at popular sites.
Day 2 — Late Morning
Airport transfer — allow 3 hrs before flight
Build in buffer for morning traffic. International check-in closes 45–60 min before departure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa for a 24-hour layover in Nashville?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Many countries offer free transit visas or visa-on-arrival for layovers under 96 hours. Check your specific passport requirements before travel and confirm with your airline.
Is 24 hours enough to leave Nashville International Airport?
Yes — 24 hours is enough to explore the nearest neighbourhoods of Nashville comfortably, provided you have transit visa clearance. Allow 2–3 hours total for airport transit (both ways).
What is the best way to get from Nashville International to Nashville city centre?
WeGo Public Transit route 18 is typically the fastest and most affordable option at USD 2, taking approximately 40 min. Rideshare apps are a convenient alternative.
Is there luggage storage at Nashville International?
Yes, Nashville International Airport has left-luggage facilities in the arrivals and departures hall. Typical cost is $5–15 per bag for up to 24 hours. Alternatively, many airport hotels offer left-luggage for non-guests.
Connect with other travellers at BNA
Book a transfer or rental from Nashville International Airport
Fixed-price airport transfer, licensed drivers, or pick up a rental car — compare and book ahead so you skip the taxi queue.
Things to do in Nashville
Tours, skip-the-line tickets and local experiences — book ahead to skip queues.
Trains & buses from Nashville
Compare overland routes — often cheaper, more scenic and skip the airport queue.
Flights from Nashville
Compare 400+ airlines departing Nashville International Airport
Hotels near Nashville Airport
With 24 hours, a day-use hotel room is worth it — shower, sleep, and recharge before your next flight.