A long airport layover can feel like a hassle, but it’s the perfect opportunity to explore the surroundings, relax, and even enjoy a bit of luxury before your next flight. Whether you’re passing through a bustling international hub or a smaller regional airport, making the most of your time can turn a seemingly tedious wait into a memorable part of your travel experience. Here’s how you can make the most of a layover at some of the world’s major airports, with options for dining, shopping, and sightseeing nearby.
1. Singapore Changi Airport (Singapore)
Duration of Layover: 4-6 hours or more
If you’re passing through Singapore Changi Airport, consider yourself lucky! Frequently ranked as one of the world’s best airports, Changi offers endless ways to pass the time.
- Things to Do:
- Gardens and Relaxation: Explore the airport’s stunning indoor gardens, including the Butterfly Garden, Sunflower Garden, and the new Jewel complex, which houses a spectacular indoor waterfall.
- Dining: Enjoy some local Singaporean cuisine at Toast Box or Crystal Jade for a taste of traditional dishes like laksa or kaya toast.
- Shopping: Changi offers a wide range of duty-free shopping, with high-end brands like Chanel, Gucci, and Tiffany, as well as local souvenir shops.
- Entertainment: Watch a free movie at the Movie Theatres or visit the Entertainment Deck with gaming consoles and music lounges.
Tip: If you have more than a few hours, consider taking the airport shuttle or taxi to downtown Singapore, just 20 minutes away, to explore attractions like Marina Bay Sands or the Gardens by the Bay.
2. Dubai International Airport (UAE)
Duration of Layover: 4-6 hours or more
Dubai International Airport is a luxurious hub, and there’s no shortage of things to do while you wait for your next flight.
- Things to Do:
- Dining: Savor international and Middle Eastern cuisine at restaurants like The Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck or Shay Al Shamoos for Arabic flavors.
- Shopping: Dubai’s duty-free shops are a paradise for high-end shopping, with luxury items such as watches, electronics, perfumes, and fashion from top global brands.
- Relaxation: Indulge in a spa treatment at Timeless Spa or enjoy a quiet nap at one of the Dubai International Hotel’s rooms.
- Art: Visit the Dubai Duty-Free Tennis Stadium or see some art installations around the airport.
Tip: If you have a long layover, you can take a short taxi ride (about 20 minutes) to the iconic Burj Khalifa or explore Dubai Mall, which houses an aquarium, ice rink, and plenty of dining options.
3. Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (Netherlands)
Duration of Layover: 3-5 hours or more
Amsterdam Schiphol is one of Europe’s busiest airports, offering passengers a wide range of activities to enjoy during a layover.
- Things to Do:
- Museums: Schiphol is home to a small Rijksmuseum annex showcasing Dutch art and history, as well as a Vincent van Gogh display.
- Dining: Treat yourself to delicious Dutch treats at The Dutch Kitchen or enjoy a meal at one of the airport’s international eateries.
- Shopping: Schiphol is full of shops selling luxury goods, souvenirs, and Dutch design products like Royal Delft pottery.
- Relaxation: Head to the Zen Garden or take a rest in one of the comfortable lounges for a peaceful moment before your next flight.
Tip: With a little extra time, Schiphol is well connected to downtown Amsterdam via train (around 15 minutes), allowing you to squeeze in a quick visit to famous landmarks like Dam Square or the Anne Frank House.
4. Incheon International Airport (Seoul, South Korea)
Duration of Layover: 3-6 hours or more
Incheon is a modern, efficient airport known for its unique amenities, cultural experiences, and excellent shopping and dining options.
- Things to Do:
- Cultural Experience: Visit the Korean Cultural Street, where you can try on traditional clothing (hanbok), participate in arts and crafts, or enjoy a cultural performance.
- Dining: Enjoy authentic Korean cuisine at Gogung (try bibimbap) or visit The Lounge & Bar for some delicious Korean fusion dishes.
- Shopping: Incheon has an impressive selection of duty-free stores offering Korean skincare brands, electronics, luxury items, and fashion.
- Relaxation: You can unwind in one of the airport’s spas, or check out the Sleeping Pods for a quick nap.
Tip: Incheon is only a 45-minute ride from Seoul’s city center, making it feasible to take a quick tour of Gyeongbokgung Palace or enjoy a stroll through Myeongdong shopping street if you have 6 hours or more.
5. Tokyo Narita Airport (Japan)
Duration of Layover: 4-6 hours or more
Narita may not be as close to central Tokyo as Haneda, but it still offers plenty of ways to enjoy your time, especially if you’re passing through Japan.
- Things to Do:
- Dining: Experience traditional Japanese meals at Sushi Kyotatsu or Ramen Dojo, where you can slurp up a bowl of delicious ramen.
- Shopping: Narita has a selection of shops selling traditional Japanese souvenirs like matcha products, origami, and kimono-style items.
- Cultural Experience: Visit the Narita-san Shinshoji Temple, a peaceful and beautiful Buddhist temple located just outside the airport (a 10-minute train ride).
- Relaxation: If you’re feeling tired, check out the Relaxation Lounge, which offers comfy seating, free Wi-Fi, and even massage chairs.
Tip: If you have more than 6 hours, consider hopping on the Keisei Skyliner (about 40 minutes) to explore Asakusa and the iconic Senso-ji Temple or take a walk along the Sumida River.
6. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX, USA)
Duration of Layover: 3-5 hours or more
LAX is a large and often busy airport, but there’s plenty to do if you have time between flights.
- Things to Do:
- Dining: Try some California cuisine at The Larder or sample local Mexican flavors at Tribu for delicious tacos or burritos.
- Shopping: Visit the duty-free stores for luxury shopping or check out Los Angeles Marketplace for local artisanal goods and gifts.
- Relaxation: LAX offers airport lounges like The Centurion Lounge and The Korean Air Lounge, where you can enjoy a quiet retreat with snacks and beverages.
- Sightseeing: If your layover is long enough, hop on the FlyAway Bus and head to nearby Santa Monica Beach or Venice Beach, just 30 minutes away.
Tip: Use the opportunity to stretch your legs and take in a short tour of Venice Beach or Santa Monica Pier, if time allows.
7. London Heathrow Airport (UK)
Duration of Layover: 4-6 hours or more
Heathrow is not just a major international hub but also offers plenty of ways to spend your layover time in a fun and relaxing manner.
- Things to Do:
- Dining: Experience British cuisine at The British Lounge or grab a bite at Gordon Ramsay Plane Food, offering tasty gourmet meals.
- Shopping: Shop for British luxury goods at Harrods or pick up some souvenirs like Yorkshire tea and Scottish whisky from local retailers.
- Relaxation: Visit one of the numerous airport lounges for a comfortable break or head to the Revivals Spa for a massage or facial.
- Cultural Experience: Visit London’s Museum of the Air, located in Terminal 5, for a fascinating display of aviation history.
Tip: If your layover is longer, take the Heathrow Express (15-20 minutes) into Central London for a whirlwind tour of Buckingham Palace or Covent Garden.
A long airport layover doesn’t have to be a frustrating part of your journey. With a little planning, you can enjoy the facilities, explore nearby sights, and sample delicious local cuisine. Whether you’re passing through Singapore, Dubai, or Los Angeles, making the most of your layover can turn a dull wait into a mini-adventure. Just be sure to keep an eye on your flight time and return to the airport with plenty of time to spare!
