Best Airline Stopover Programmes: Turn Long Layovers into Mini Holidays
Long-haul flights can be a slog—but what if your layover turned into a mini holiday? That’s exactly what airline stopover programmes are designed for. From exploring the souks of Doha to soaking in Reykjavik’s hot springs, more and more airlines are offering free or discounted stopovers in their hub cities—turning what used to be dead time into a cultural bonus round.
Whether you’ve got 24 hours or 72, these programmes let travellers break up long journeys, beat jet lag in style, and tick off a second destination—all often without spending a penny more. From complimentary hotel stays to guided city tours, this is one travel hack you’ll wish you’d known about sooner.
In this guide, we’re diving into the world’s best stopover programmes, what they offer, how to book them, and how to make the most of every moment in your bonus city. Ready to double your destination count? Let’s go.
What to Know About Stopover Programmes
Who Can Use Them
Most stopover deals are open to economy class travellers, not just business flyers. That said, perks like hotel stays or free tours may depend on your ticket class and availability.
How Long is a Stopover?
Typically, anything over 24 hours (or 4 hours for domestic connections) is considered a stopover. Each airline sets its own rules, with some allowing stays up to a week.
What’s Included?
Some programmes offer complimentary hotel nights, airport transfers, or sightseeing tours. Others provide discounts on partner hotels and excursions. A few even throw in visa support or free SIM cards.
How to Book One
Some airlines let you add a stopover during the booking process on their site. Others require a separate booking page or a bit of customer service wrangling. Booking early is key—especially if you want perks like hotel stays or tours.
Do You Need a Visa?
It depends on the country. Many stopover-friendly cities offer visa-free entry or transit visa options, but always double-check entry requirements before you fly.
Why Airlines Offer Them
Airlines use stopovers to promote tourism in their home cities and attract passengers on long-haul routes. For travellers, it’s a win-win—an easy way to explore a new destination without a second flight or added fare.
World Locals Tip
Even if a programme doesn’t offer free perks, the ability to spend time in a new city without booking a separate flight is still a solid travel hack—especially if you’re planning longer trips across continents.
Best Airline Stopover Programmes
Qatar Airways – Doha, Qatar
Qatar Airways offers one of the most luxurious stopover experiences in the world—and it’s surprisingly accessible even to economy travellers. Through a partnership with Discover Qatar, the airline provides hotel stays starting from just £10 (€12), and for many nationalities, entry into Qatar is visa-free. Doha’s Hamad International Airport is a major hub, making this stopover easy to build into long-haul itineraries between Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceania.
Expect options ranging from sleek city hotels to full resort-style stays. Whether you want to wander the colourful Souq Waqif, admire the Museum of Islamic Art, or simply relax in a pool with skyline views—this programme lets you turn a layover into luxury.
What’s Included
1–4 night hotel stays (some free, most highly subsidised)
Optional city tours, desert safaris, and cultural experiences
Visa-free entry for over 95 nationalities
How to Book It
Visit the Discover Qatar Stopover page after booking your Qatar Airways flight. Packages must be booked at least 72 hours before departure. You can select hotel category, number of nights, and add-ons like transport or tours.
World Locals Tip
Even a short 8–12 hour layover gives you enough time for a private half-day city tour or a relaxing beachside afternoon—just time your arrival in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak desert heat.
Doha, Qatar.
Emirates – Dubai, UAE
Dubai is practically built for stopovers, and Emirates has perfected the experience. Whether you're in transit for 24 hours or have a few days to spare, the Dubai Stopover programme offers slick hotel packages, visa support, and even exclusive experiences—think desert safaris, waterparks, and private city tours. Dubai International Airport is one of the world’s busiest, so chances are if you’re flying long-haul with Emirates, a stopover is easy to include.
The programme is ideal for first-timers wanting a taste of Dubai’s futuristic skyline, luxurious malls, and vibrant souks—or simply to stretch your legs in the sunshine before your onward flight.
What’s Included
Customisable hotel stays from budget to luxury
Airport transfers, optional tours, and excursion add-ons
Visa assistance for eligible nationalities
How to Book It
Book directly through Emirates during your flight reservation process or via the “Manage Booking” section. You can also arrange a stopover through Emirates Holidays for more curated packages.
World Locals Tip
The metro from the airport is ultra-efficient, but if you're short on time, book a hotel in Deira or Downtown to maximise sightseeing hours and access to top attractions like the Burj Khalifa or Old Dubai.
Dubai, UAE.
Etihad Airways – Abu Dhabi, UAE
Etihad’s stopover programme is a slightly quieter gem compared to its Dubai neighbour, but no less impressive. Passengers transiting through Abu Dhabi can enjoy complimentary hotel stays for up to two nights, or deep discounts on premium accommodation depending on fare class and travel dates. It’s an ideal option if you’re flying between Europe and Asia or Australia and want to pause in a city full of culture and calm.
From lounging on Saadiyat Beach to visiting the Louvre Abu Dhabi or the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a stopover here blends serenity with standout sights—without the crowds of bigger hub cities.
What’s Included
1–2 nights free in selected 3- and 4-star hotels (or discounts at luxury hotels)
Access to cultural experiences, restaurants, and wellness options
Transit visa on arrival for eligible nationalities
How to Book It
Visit the Etihad Stopover section of their website after booking your flight. You’ll need to confirm eligibility, then choose from a list of accommodation partners. Offers are available on round-trip flights only and require booking at least 72 hours in advance.
World Locals Tip
If you’re flying business class, the programme often includes complimentary airport transfers—so it’s worth checking for luxury perks even if you’re only staying one night.
Abu Dhabi, UAE.
Turkish Airlines – Istanbul, Turkey
Turkish Airlines offers one of the most generous stopover programmes in Europe and Asia combined. Passengers flying through Istanbul on international routes can get a free hotel stay for one night in economy or two nights in business class—no extra fees or booking hoops. Istanbul itself is a traveller’s dream: where East meets West, tradition meets trend, and history meets hipster cafés.
If you don’t have time for an overnight stay, Turkish Airlines also runs a free city tour for transit passengers with long layovers, complete with museum stops, meals, and mosque visits.
What’s Included
Free 1-night hotel stay for economy passengers, 2 nights for business class
Complimentary city tour for long layovers (6–24 hours)
No visa required for many passport holders (or easy e-visa system)
How to Book It
After booking your flight, email the Turkish Airlines stopover team at least 72 hours in advance. You’ll need to provide your ticket details and preferred hotel category. For city tours, you can sign up at the airport Touristanbul desk upon arrival.
World Locals Tip
For a quick hit of Istanbul magic, head straight to Sultanahmet to catch the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and a walk through the Grand Bazaar—even a 6–8 hour stopover can be enough for a solid taste of the city.
Istanbul, Turkey.
Singapore Airlines – Singapore
Singapore Airlines takes its stopover game seriously. Their Singapore Stopover Holiday package is one of the most well-rounded offerings out there, bundling discounted hotel stays with free entry to over 15 attractions, airport transfers, and public transport passes. It’s ideal for travellers heading to Australia, New Zealand, or across Asia-Pacific who want to pause in one of the world’s cleanest, greenest cities.
Whether it’s sampling hawker centre eats, wandering Gardens by the Bay, or taking in skyline views from Marina Bay Sands—Singapore makes it easy to fall in love in just 48 hours.
What’s Included
Hotel options across various budgets
Free admission to top attractions like Singapore Zoo, Gardens by the Bay, and the National Gallery
Airport transfers and free public transport card (with most packages)
How to Book It
Choose the Singapore Stopover Holiday add-on while booking your Singapore Airlines ticket, or visit the programme’s dedicated page. Packages can be customised and added post-booking as well.
World Locals Tip
Don’t skip the airport. Changi is consistently ranked the best in the world and includes everything from butterfly gardens to a rooftop pool and the jaw-dropping Jewel waterfall dome—worth arriving early for your flight just to explore.
Singapore, Malaysia.
Finnair – Helsinki, Finland
Flying with Finnair offers the chance to pause in one of Europe’s most underrated capitals. The Stopover Finland programme lets travellers stay in Helsinki for 1–5 days at no extra flight cost, with add-ons including design tours, nature excursions, and sauna experiences. It’s a brilliant option for anyone connecting between Europe and Asia, or wanting a taste of Nordic culture without going full Arctic Circle.
From café-hopping in the Design District to visiting a traditional smoke sauna, Helsinki is cool, clean, and creative—the perfect reset between long flights.
What’s Included
No additional airfare for 1–5 day stopovers
Optional packages for city tours, wildlife safaris, or spa access
Local hotel deals available via Finnair Holidays
How to Book It
When booking a long-haul Finnair flight, select “multi-city” or use the “Stopover Finland” portal on their website to customise your layover. You can also book tour and accommodation bundles through Finnair Holidays.
World Locals Tip
If you're stopping over in winter, head to Löyly, a stunning seafront public sauna where you can alternate steam sessions with Baltic Sea dips—just the ticket for shaking off travel fatigue.
Helsinki, Finland.
Icelandair – Reykjavik, Iceland
Icelandair pioneered the stopover trend back in the '60s, and their programme remains one of the most seamless. Travellers flying between Europe and North America can enjoy a stopover of up to 7 days in Iceland at no additional airfare. It’s perfect for soaking in the Blue Lagoon, chasing waterfalls along the South Coast, or even catching the Northern Lights—without booking a separate trip.
Whether you stay in the buzzing capital of Reykjavik or venture out on a day tour to volcanoes and glaciers, this is one layover that feels like a standalone adventure.
What’s Included
Free stopover in Iceland for up to 7 nights
No added airfare on transatlantic flights
Add-on options include hotel deals and curated tours
How to Book It
Choose “Iceland Stopover” when booking directly through Icelandair’s site. You’ll have the option to select your stopover length and browse extra services through Icelandair Holidays.
World Locals Tip
Even just 24 hours in Reykjavik can be magic—especially with a dip in the Sky Lagoon followed by dinner at a cosy bistro like Apotek or Matur og Drykkur. Just pack layers—the weather changes fast.
Iceland.
Air Canada – Toronto, Canada
Air Canada’s Stopover Canada programme makes it easy to pause in Toronto on transatlantic or transpacific journeys—perfect for a quick hit of urban culture, lakeside chill, or even a side trip to Niagara Falls. The airline offers 1 to 7-night stopovers, and while the hotel isn't free, discounted packages are available through Air Canada Vacations.
Toronto is a diverse, buzzing city known for its skyline, global food scene, and easy access to natural wonders. It’s a stopover with serious variety—hit the CN Tower in the morning, devour dim sum in Chinatown for lunch, and cruise the islands by sunset.
What’s Included
1–7 night stopover in Toronto
Discounted hotel stays via Air Canada Vacations
Available on international flights with long layovers
How to Book It
When booking your flight, use the “multi-city” feature on Air Canada’s website or select “Stopover Canada” on eligible itineraries. For deals, browse Air Canada Vacations’ packages that combine flights and hotels.
World Locals Tip
Layover under 24 hours? Head straight to the Distillery District for pedestrian-only cobbled streets, indie shops, and some of the city’s best coffee and craft beer—just 30 minutes from Pearson Airport by UP Express train.
Toronto, Canada.
TAP Air Portugal – Lisbon, Portugal
TAP Air Portugal’s stopover programme is one of the best-kept secrets in European travel. It allows passengers flying through Lisbon (or Porto) to add a 1–5 night stopover at no extra cost, with access to discounts on hotels, restaurants, museums, and even wine experiences. It’s a great way to add a dash of sunshine and culture to a transatlantic trip.
Lisbon’s hills, tiled facades, trams, and custard tarts make for an effortlessly romantic and relaxed layover. You can explore the Alfama district, listen to live Fado, or sip vinho verde by the river—all in under 48 hours.
What’s Included
Free 1–5 night stopover in Lisbon (or Porto)
Discounts on accommodation, cultural experiences, restaurants, and wine tastings
Available on both inbound and outbound international routes
How to Book It
Book your TAP flights through the airline’s website and choose the “TAP Stopover” option when prompted. You’ll be able to tailor your length of stay and access exclusive offers through the stopover platform.
World Locals Tip
If you're short on time, hop aboard the famous Tram 28 for a scenic ride through Lisbon’s best neighbourhoods—just avoid rush hour to dodge the crowds and keep an eye on your belongings.
Lisbon, Portugal.
Japan Airlines – Tokyo, Japan
Japan Airlines doesn’t officially market a branded stopover programme, but savvy travellers can still take advantage of a Tokyo stopover using JAL’s multi-city booking options or by pairing with hotel deals via partner agencies. With Japan’s robust visa-free entry for many travellers and Tokyo’s two major airports—Narita and Haneda—this stopover is a golden opportunity to dip into one of the world’s most exciting cities.
From slurping ramen in Shinjuku to catching sunrise at Meiji Shrine or shopping in Harajuku, even 24 hours in Tokyo is enough to create unforgettable memories.
What’s Included
Multi-city flight option with flexible Tokyo layover
Hotel discounts via JAL partner booking sites
Visa-free entry for most nationalities (up to 90 days)
How to Book It
Use the “multi-city” search when booking directly with JAL or explore Japan Airlines Holidays or affiliate travel platforms that offer stopover bundles. JAL also frequently runs flight deals that make short Tokyo stays easy to tack on.
World Locals Tip
Narita is further from the city than Haneda—if you’re short on time, try to fly into (or out of) Haneda for easier access to Tokyo’s central districts via the Keikyu or monorail lines.
Tokyo, Japan.
Tips for Making the Most of a Stopover
Keep It Carry-On Only
If your stopover is under 48 hours, avoid checking luggage. It'll save you time at the airport and make navigating public transport or hotel check-ins much easier.
Time Your Arrival Wisely
Try to land early in the morning or mid-afternoon to maximise sightseeing time—many city attractions close by evening, especially in smaller hubs.
Know the Visa Rules
Even if you're just transiting, some countries require a transit visa. Always check whether your passport qualifies for visa-free entry or if an e-visa is needed in advance.
Pre-Book Airport Transfers
Don't waste your stopover haggling with taxis or figuring out bus maps. Look for airlines offering discounted or included transfers—or pre-book a ride to make the most of your time.
Use Airport Luggage Storage
If your hotel check-in is hours away, stash your bags at the airport or train station so you can hit the ground running without being weighed down.
Focus on One or Two Experiences
Don’t try to do it all. Whether it’s one standout museum, a neighbourhood walk, or a long lunch with a skyline view—slow travel makes short stops memorable.
Tap Into Free Tours
Several airlines (like Turkish and Qatar) offer complimentary city tours. These are ideal for tight layovers and include curated highlights, guides, and often a meal.
World Locals Tip
Download offline maps, public transport apps, and basic language tools before you fly. You’ll save time on the ground and feel more confident navigating solo.
Stopovers aren’t just a way to break up a long flight—they’re one of the smartest travel hacks around. With the right airline and a bit of pre-planning, that dreaded 14-hour layover can become a sunrise hike in Iceland, a rooftop dinner in Singapore, or a historic tram ride through Lisbon’s cobbled lanes.
More airlines are recognising that travellers want flexibility, adventure, and value—and their stopover programmes deliver just that. Whether it’s a free hotel night, a cultural tour, or simply the chance to explore a second destination on one airfare, these offers turn transit into treasure.
So next time you’re planning a long-haul journey, don’t just search for the quickest route—look for the one with the best detour. You might just find the most memorable part of your trip is the one you didn’t expect.
