The Best Airline Stopover Programs
Planning a trip and want to make the most of your travels? Airline stopover programs are the perfect way to turn a layover into an exciting city break. These programs allow you to explore a new destination with minimal hassle or cost, adding more variety to your travel plans.
To save you the legwork, I’ve compiled information on all the airline stopover programs offered by the world’s airlines; by region. Whether you’re looking to stretch your vacation budget, discover a hidden gem, or simply break up a long-haul flight, this blog post has you covered. Get ready to unlock the ultimate travel hack and maximise your trip with a stopover!
What Is An Airline Stopover Program
An airline stopover program is a special offer from certain airlines that allows you to visit a city en route to your final destination, often at little or no additional cost.
How Do Airline Stopovers Work
Here’s how it works: if you book a long-haul flight with an eligible airline, you can choose to extend your layover into a short stay, typically ranging from 24 hours to a few days. These programs are designed to encourage you to visit the airline’s home hub or major cities within their network.
The benefits are plenty! You get a chance to discover new cultures, enjoy attractions, and make the most of what could otherwise be idle time in an airport. Plus, stopovers can help to break up exhausting long-haul journeys, making your overall travel experience more enjoyable. Think of it as a bonus mini-vacation added to your trip.
So before booking any air travel, always explore airline stopover programs available and really get the most out of your next trip.
Best Airline Stopover Programs – Europe
Turkish Airlines
Stopover City: Istanbul
Perks: Free hotel stays (2 nights for business class, 1 night for economy class) and free city tours
Duration: Stopovers must be at least 20 hours
For More Information: Visit Turkish Airlines stopover page
TAP Air Portugal
Stopover Cities: Lisbon, Porto
Perks: Free stopovers for up to 10 days, discounts on hotels & free city tours
Duration: 1 to 10 days
For More Information: Visit TAP Air Portugal website
Icelandair
Stopover City: Reykjavik
Perks: Free stopovers for up to 7 days with itineraries for exploring Iceland’s natural wonders
Duration: 24 hours to 7 days
For More Information: Visit Icelandair’s website
Iberia
Stopover City: Madrid
Perks: Free stopovers for up to 6 nights, discounts on hotels, tours, and public transport
Duration: 1 to 6 nights
For More Information: Visit Iberia’s website
Finnair
Stopover City: Helsinki
Perks: Free stopovers for up to 24 hours with guides and hotel recommendations
Duration: 6, 12, or 24 hours
For More Information: Visit Finnair’s website
Air France / KLM
Stopover Cities: Paris, Amsterdam
Perks: Free stopovers for up to 12 months. Accommodation is not included
Duration: 24 hours to 12 months
For More Information: Visit the Air France or KLM stopover pages. Air France offers stopovers through their Flying Blue loyalty program
Azores Airlines
Stopover Cities: São Miguel, Terceira
Perks: Free stopovers for exploring the Azores
Duration: Flexible
For More Information: Visit the Azores Airlines Stopover page
Best Airline Stopover Programs – The Americas
Air Canada
Stopover City: Toronto
Perks: Free stopovers for up to 48 hours. Aeroplan members can use points for extended stopovers
Duration: 24 to 48 hours
For More Information: See Air Canada’s website
Copa Airlines
Stopover City: Panama City
Perks: Free stopovers for up to 7 days with discounts on hotels and activities
Duration: 24 hours to 7 days
For More Information: Visit Copa Airlines’ website
Best Airline Stopover Programs – Middle East
Qatar Airways
Stopover City: Doha
Perks: Discounted hotel packages starting around $14 for 4-star hotels and $24 for 5-star hotels. Includes options for beach access and luxury stays
Duration: 12 to 96 hours
For More Information: Visit Qatar Airways website
Emirates
Stopover City: Dubai
Perks: Free hotel stays for long layovers (8–26 hours for economy, 6–26 hours for premium classes) with meals and airport transfers
Duration: Up to 48 hours
For More Information: Visit the Emirates website
Etihad Airways
Stopover City: Abu Dhabi
Perks: Free hotel stays for up to 2 nights and discounts for longer stays
Duration: Minimum 24 hours
For More Information: Visit Etihad Airways website
Royal Jordanian
Stopover City: Amman
Perks: Free stopovers with packages for exploring historical sites
Duration: Flexible
For More Information: Visit Royal Jordanian’s website
Oman Air
Stopover City: Muscat
Perks: Discounted hotel stays, food, and tours
Duration: 1 to 3 nights
For More Information: Visit Oman Air’s website
Saudia
Stopover Cities: Riyadh, Jeddah
Perks: Free stopovers for up to 4 days with discounted hotel packages
Duration: 1 to 4 days
For More Information: Visit Saudia’s website
Best Airline Stopover Programs – Asia & Australia
Japan Airlines
Stopover Cities: Tokyo, Osaka
Perks: Free stopovers with discounted domestic flights through the JAL Japan Explorer Pass
Duration: Up to 6 nights
For More Information: Visit Japan Airlines website
Qantas
Stopover Cities: Various Australian cities
Perks: Free stopovers with multi-city bookings. Hotel and tour costs are additional
Duration: Flexible
For More Information: Visit Qantas website
Singapore Airlines
Stopover City: Singapore
Perks: Discounted hotel packages, airport transfers, and access to over 20 attractions
Duration: 24 hours to 30 days
For More Information: Visit Singapore Airlines website
China Airlines
Stopover City: Taipei
Perks: Free stopovers with discounted hotels and tours
Duration: Flexible
For More Information: Visit China Airlines website
Best Airline Stopover Programs – Africa
Ethiopian Airlines
Stopover City: Addis Ababa
Perks: Free hotel stays, airport transfers, and breakfast for layovers between 8 and 24 hours
Duration: 8 to 24 hours
For More Information: Visit Ethiopian Airlines website
So To Wrap Up on The Best Airline Stopover Programs…
Exploring the world has never been more accessible, thanks to airline stopover programs that transform layovers into another way to explore fantastic cities.
These programs not only allow you to experience vibrant cities and cultures without extra airfare but also provide perks like free or discounted hotels and tours. Whether it’s soaking in Iceland’s hot springs, wandering Istanbul’s historic streets, or savouring the flavours of Singapore, these stopovers add incredible value to your trips. Next time you plan a long-haul flight, don’t just pass through a city; take advantage of an airline stopover program.
Useful FAQs
Are stopover programs available for all ticket types?
Stopover programs are typically available for economy, business, and first-class tickets, but the perks may differ depending on your travel class.
Always check the airline’s terms and conditions or contact their customer service to confirm whether stopovers are allowed for your specific ticket type. Some airlines may have restrictions based on fare class or ticket type (e.g., basic economy).
Are stopovers only available for one-way tickets?
Stopovers are generally available for both one-way and round-trip tickets, but it depends on the airline’s specific policies. So always check before making any booking.
Do I need a visa for a stopover?
It depends on the country where the stopover occurs. Some countries waive visa requirements for short stays, while others might require you to apply in advance. Check the local visa requirements for your stopover city before making any travel arrangements.
Can I choose how many days to stay in the stopover city?
Yes, most programs allow flexibility in how long you can stay, from one day to several days. However, there may be a maximum limit, especially for free accommodation, so always double-check with the airline when making your plans.
Do airlines provide support for stopovers?
Some airlines offer generous support, such as free or discounted hotel stays, guided tours, transportation passes, or even complimentary meals. For example, Qatar Airways also provides a visa in additional to hotel nights for its passengers stopping over in Doha.
Are stopover programs suited for families?
Absolutely! Many stopover programs include family-friendly accommodations and activities. For example, cities like Singapore and Reykjavik are known for being family-friendly, with plenty of options for all age groups.
Can I add a stopover to an already booked flight?
It depends on the airline and your ticket. Some airlines allow changes for a small fee, while others restrict modifications. Contact the airline’s customer service to find out about your options; and always check your options before finalising any bookings.
Are there special offers for stopovers during certain seasons?
Yes, many airlines and tourism boards offer seasonal promotions, such as discounted hotel rates, free tours, or cultural events. Keep an eye on airline websites for deals, and sign up to their emailing lists.
For some more great travel hacks, head to our dedicated Travel Hacks page.
