Yes, you can generally leave the airport during an international layover, but it is contingent on your visa status and the length of your connection. In 2026, many major transit hubs like Singapore, Doha, and Istanbul offer "transit visas" or visa-free entry for certain nationalities if your layover is between 6 and 24 hours. You must ensure you have a valid passport and meet any health or entry requirements for that country. Before leaving, you must pass through immigration/customs, so you should budget at least 2 hours for the exit process and another 3 hours to return, clear security, and reach your gate. If you have a layover of less than 6 hours, leaving the airport is usually not recommended due to the risk of missing your flight. Some airports even offer free organized "city tours" specifically for transit passengers, which handle the logistics and ensure you return on time. Always check if your luggage is "checked through" to your final destination; if it isn't, you may need to store it in a "Left Luggage" locker at the airport before heading into the city for your short adventure.