Yes, you can almost always leave the airport during a 24-hour layover, provided you meet the visa and entry requirements of the country you are transiting through. If you are a citizen of a visa-exempt country or hold a pre-arranged transit visa, you can pass through immigration and customs just like any other arriving passenger. A 24-hour window is actually the "gold standard" for layovers, as it provides enough time to find a hotel, enjoy several meals, and see the major highlights of the city without the stress of missing your connection. In 2026, many major hubs like Singapore, Doha, and Istanbul even offer free city tours or discounted hotel stays specifically for passengers with long layovers. It is important to remember that you will need to re-clear security when you return to the airport, which can take 1-2 hours, so you should plan to be back at the terminal at least 3 hours before your departure. Additionally, if you have checked luggage, verify if it has been "checked through" to your final destination; if not, you will need to store it in the airport’s "Left Luggage" facility or take it with you to your hotel to avoid having to carry it around the city.