Maximize your next vacation by turning one trip into two or more with the best worldwide stopover initiatives.
Many international trips involve an overnight layover, which can be a recipe for boredom and travel fatigue. Thankfully, some airlines and countries have begun offering discounts and incentives for travelers who want to explore as much as possible during a lengthy journey, with perks like free hotels, tours, and more.
Make the most of your travels by sightseeing in the top countries with enticing stopover programs.
Portugal
Portuguese cities like Porto and Lisbon are ideal for lengthy layovers. Their quick public transport systems enable easy airport travel. Porto has an incredible culinary scene you can savor during your stopover. Meanwhile, Lisbon is a renowned cultural hub with multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The Portugal Stopover program lets you visit either city for up to 10 days entirely free. You can also score 25% off a domestic flight to see more of this stunning country.
Turkey
Istanbul is fantastic for an overnight or multi-day getaway. Your money will go far in this affordable city. Its rich cultural heritage can be experienced through historical landmarks and local markets.
Consider using the Stopover in Istanbul initiative available through Turkish Airlines. You may be eligible to stay free for up to three days in a 4- or 5-star hotel.
United Arab Emirates
Two airlines in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) allow travelers to explore the country’s most popular cities: Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Etihad Airways’ Abu Dhabi stopover program provides travelers with up to two nights at a hotel of their choice in the city. The airline operates a free shuttle to take tourists on eight different routes that include stops such as Yas Island, Saadiyat Island, and the city center.
Meanwhile, the Emirates Dubai stopover program allows passengers to break up their flight to add a couple of days of a stopover in Dubai at no additional charge, plus offers benefits like 24-hour hotel check-in and discounts. Passengers traveling with Emirates that have layovers up to 24 hours (Economy) or 26 hours (Business) can take advantage of the Dubai Connect program, which offers free hotel stays, meals, transportation, visas, and more.
Qatar
Book a Qatar Airways stopover to discover new and exciting locales during your journey. Packages range from one to four nights and start at an unbeatable $14.
Experience authentic Qatari culture with a guided tour of Doha, a fantastic alternative to over-visited Dubai. Head out on an exotic desert adventure for a taste of Qatar’s wild side.
Panama
Copa Airlines has a 1 to 7-day stopover program allowing travelers to see the best of Panama City. It’s the perfect excuse to sightsee Panama.
The Casco Viejo neighborhood is a must-visit for enjoying old-world charm. Tour a museum to learn about the local history and sample mouthwatering cafes or rooftop bars.
Switzerland
The SWISS Stopover Switzerland program is an excellent way to sightsee mid-journey. It allows you to stay up to four nights exploring multiple cities nationwide. Packages start around $185 and feature everything from scenic rail tours to world-class dining.
Japan
Japan Airlines makes it easy for international visitors to see multiple cities in one stopover. Take a subway or train into the heart of Tokyo for an unforgettable time. The city is relatively affordable and easy to navigate. Other must-visit Japanese stopover destinations include Osaka and Kyoto.
China
Take advantage of China’s visa-free travel policy for a one-of-a-kind stopover. Depending on your country of origin, you may be able to spend six days in China without applying for a visa.
Tour ancient locales like Shanghai and Beijing offering activities and attractions that showcase Chinese culture. These sprawling cities offer endless entertainment, regardless of how long you stay.
Canada
Numerous Canadian cities are worth visiting during a layover. Montreal offers a taste of European charm with modern convenience. Meanwhile, outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy a river cruise down Vancouver’s waterways.
Air Canada lets passengers explore Toronto for up to two days when traveling to Europe or Asia. Regardless of where you visit, Canada has much to keep you occupied for several hours or days.
Ireland
Dublin is an underrated European city for a short trip in between flights. This vacation spot has relaxed cafes, quirky shops, and medieval ruins. Regardless if you have an afternoon or an entire day, you won’t run out of fun and unique things to do.
Italy
Rome is among Italy’s best places to spend an overnight layover. Top attractions like the Colosseum and Roman Forum are easy to visit in one afternoon or evening. It’s a gratifying, quick trip en route to your final destination.
Denmark
Prepare to be enchanted by Copenhagen. Expect a fulfilling visit even if you only have a few hours to explore. Refuel at a Scandinavian cafe and embark on a walking tour of the city center. The straightforward public transportation makes the airport easily accessible.
Spain
When you book through Iberia, you can spend up to nine days exploring Madrid. It’s one of the best cities to immerse yourself in Spain’s distinct cultural heritage.
From indulgent cuisine to world-class art and lively nightlife, there’s no shortage of ways to pass the time. Iberia also gives you access to exclusive discounts and promotions to enhance your stopover experience.
United States of America
You can’t go wrong staying in New York City or Las Angeles for a night. America’s best cities have much to see and do. Transportation is easy, letting you see all the top attractions in one outing, so don’t miss the opportunity to visit these iconic locales.
Finland
Consider planning your next stopover in Finland’s capital, Helsinki. There are many fun things to see and do for history and architecture lovers.
Since Helsinki is compact, you can see several top sights within a few hours. The city has free two-hour walking tours perfect for those on a stopover. Unwind mid-journey at one of the city’s relaxing saunas.
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Elise Armitage is an entrepreneur and founder of What The Fab, a travel + lifestyle blog based in California. At the beginning of 2019, Elise left her corporate job at Google to chase her dreams: being an entrepreneur and helping women find fabulous in the everyday. Since then, she’s launched her SEO course Six-Figure SEO, where she teaches bloggers how to create a passive revenue stream from their website using SEO. Featured in publications like Forbes, Elle, HerMoney, and Real Simple, Elise is a firm believer that you can be of both substance and style.
