In an ideal world, flights would be nonstop, punctual and hassle-free. In reality, layovers are a frequent part of travel. While some airports make transit stressful, others deliver comfort, convenience and even entertainment.
We asked members of the well-traveled Globility Board to share their picks for the best airports to have a layover, considering factors such as dining, hotel access, lounge quality, ease of moving between terminals and available amenities.
For frequent traveler Eric Ludwig, lounge quality is key. “Domestically, the American Airlines Admiral’s Club lounges in Dallas are top notch,” he said. For international layovers, his favorites are Istanbul (IST) and Singapore Changi’s (SIN) Star Alliance lounges.
Board member Mike Russo highlights the value of outdoor space. “Open-air observation decks, like those Delta has added at select Sky Clubs, add a great element to the travel experience for me,” he noted.
Iris R. Childress values easy hotel access from the terminal. She prefers Detroit (DTW), Chicago (ORD) and Boston (BOS) because each has a hotel connected to the airport. “At Detroit Metropolitan, you simply ‘exit left’ and there you are in the Westin. Chicago and Boston require a short walk to their Hilton properties within the airport facility — no bus, no shuttle,” Childress explained.
These airports also boast notable dining options: Goose Island Bar in Chicago, Bigalora in Detroit and Harpoon Tap Room and Legal Test Kitchen in Boston are among the favorites named by the board.
Amsterdam Schiphol is ideal for short stays or longer layovers thanks to two on-site hotels, Mercure and Yotel, an airport art gallery and straightforward transportation into central Amsterdam for travelers who want to explore.
Globetrotter Eric Chiang emphasizes the importance of interconnected terminals. “The best airports for layovers are those where terminals are fully connected so you don’t have to leave security. I don’t like LAX or JFK because separated terminals limit dining and shopping. ATL and DEN let you explore the entire airport with ease,” he said.
Chiang’s top airports for long layovers are Dubai (DXB), Incheon (ICN) and Tokyo Narita (NRT). “I often choose flights with longer layovers through these cities,” he said. Dubai International is renowned for exceptional shopping; Incheon features unique facilities such as a golf course, spa, ice-skating rink and casino; and Tokyo Narita hosts Narita 5th Avenue, one of Japan’s largest duty-free shopping areas.
Singapore Changi stands out for amenities like sleeping pods, a movie theater and a rooftop swimming pool. Vancouver International (YVR) is praised for its calming design, which uses natural materials and plentiful daylight to help travelers manage jet lag.
Whether you prioritize quick access to a hotel, vibrant dining and shopping, relaxing lounges or unique entertainment, choosing the right airport can turn a layover into a pleasant pause on your journey.
What are your favorite airports for layovers? Email us at [email protected].