Travelling from Velana International Airport (MLE) to Tokyo: what you need to know
The timezone in Tokyo is UTC+9. The city is four hours ahead of Malé, where Velana International Airport is located.
For a relaxed start to your MLE to Tokyo flight, leave enough time to check in and drop off your luggage. Turning up two hours ahead of international departures and one hour before domestic flights is the standard rule.
Longer lines at security and check-in are likely if you're heading away during high season, so allow a bit more breathing room. A good rule of thumb for peak times? Arrive up to four hours ahead for international flights and at least two hours for domestic departures.
Consider adding a stopover to potentially unlock a cheaper flight ticket from MLE to Tokyo. Just deselect 'Direct flights only' during your search. Take a detour (and maybe pocket some savings) by stopping at one of these connection hubs:
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)
Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)
Changi International Airport (SIN)
To get to MLE from central Malé, it takes around 15 minutes if you're going by car. It's roughly 3 kilometres from the airport to the city centre.
Looking for a hotel near MLE? If you're boarding an early flight from Velana International Airport to Tokyo, these stays put the terminal practically at your doorstep:
When it comes to the on-time performance of Velana International Airport, data shows 77.73% of flights meet their scheduled arrival time.
How to find the cheapest flights from Velana International Airport (MLE) to Tokyo
The lowest price we've found for a one-way Velana International Airport to Tokyo flight is $457. The cheapest price for a return flight is $826. Remember fares may change due to availability at the time of booking.
To pick up cheap flights from MLE to Tokyo, book as early as you can. Airlines usually offer lower fares when tickets first go on sale.
The 'Whole month' search tool will show you the cheapest tickets from Velana International Airport to Tokyo throughout the entire month. It's a good way to snap up a bargain if your trip dates are flexible.
Cut down on the time spent looking for cheap flights from MLE to Tokyo by creating a Price Alert. You'll receive an email or notification on the app when a lower fare becomes available.
Tailor your trip with filters. Choose your ideal arrival and departure times, total journey duration and airlines. You can also sort results by 'Best,' 'Fastest' or 'Cheapest' flights from Velana International Airport to Tokyo.
Airports in Tokyo
Haneda Airport (HND)
Haneda Airport (HND) is around 16 kilometres from central Tokyo. If you're opting for a ride-share or a cab, the drive will take roughly 15 minutes.
Consider booking a hotel near HND if you're coming in on a late flight from Velana International Airport to Tokyo. Settle into one of these options and make arrival day easier:
Travel at your own speed with a Haneda Airport rental car. Book your wheels from Europcar, Nissan Rent a Car or Times and see more of Tokyo and beyond.
For the lowest price, book your ride from Haneda Airport around three weeks in advance of your flight from MLE to Tokyo.
The street address for HND is 3丁目 Hanedakuko, Ota.
Narita International Airport (NRT)
Central Tokyo is located around 64 kilometres from Narita International Airport (NRT). Once your flight from Velana International Airport to Tokyo has touched down and you've made your way out of the airport, the drive should be around 1 hour.
There are some comfortable places to call home for the night near NRT. Settle in and get cosy after your MLE to Tokyo flight at any of these well-located options:
Forget about public transport schedules or waiting forever for a cab. Pick up a Narita International Airport rental car and blaze your own trail. Compare offers from Airport Car Hire, JDM Rent a car and Miki Car Hire.
Avoid paying extra. Booking your ride four weeks ahead of your arrival at NRT can get you a lower rate.
You can find Narita International Airport at 成田空港第2PTB(バス), Narita.
Best time to go to Tokyo
Travel to Tokyo in peak season if you want a busy atmosphere, but remember that prices are typically higher. Alternatively, book your flights from Velana International Airport to Tokyo during the off-season when prices are cheaper and it's less crowded.
Lock in a Velana International Airport to Tokyo flight ticket with a departure in August if you want to visit the city during its warmest month. Expect temperatures to range from 26ºC (79ºF) to 29ºC (84ºF).
For cooler conditions, search for a cheap ticket from MLE to Tokyo in February when temperatures average between 15ºC (59ºF) and 20ºC (68ºF).
More about Tokyo
When it comes to searching for somewhere to lay your head, you'll find the most popular stays in Tokyo right here. Check out these hotels as soon as you've booked your flight from Velana International Airport to Tokyo:
Every great journey has to include some sightseeing. Senso-ji Temple Yogodo, Tokyo Tower and Mag's Park Rooftop Shibuya Crossing are must-visits when exploring Tokyo.
Explore more of Japan
You've done Tokyo, now it's time to discover other corners of Japan. Travel about 402 kilometres west to Osaka to tick off its top sights. From Osaka Castle to Dotonbori and Universal Studios Japan, your itinerary will be busy.
Around 257 kilometres west of Tokyo, Nagoya is another favourite stop in Japan. Experience this destination's highlights firsthand at Nagoya Castle, Atsuta Shrine and Osu Kannon Temple.