Jetsetting to multiple global cities is attainable and, in some cases, free.
In a push to service customers in not only flights but experiences, many airlines are offering layover programs at reasonable or reduced prices with some programs offered to travelers for free. Layover, or stopover, programs allow travelers to stay the night—or several nights—in a layover destination in a journey to another destination.
While many airlines offer layover programs in capital cities, experiences inside and outside that city are available to adventurous travelers. Exploring side streets, open spaces, ice caves and sprawling temples and much more, a layover program might be one answer to the undying wanderlust in adventurous hearts. Besides, aren’t two destinations better than one?
Stellar Stopover Programs That Will Have You Seeing the World
Istanbul Stopover with Turkish Airlines
Turkish Airlines offers complimentary hotel stays in Istanbul for passengers with long international layovers, according to the Turkish Airlines site. To qualify, travelers on round-trip flights must have a layover of at least 20 hours and apply by email at least 72 hours before their flight. Economy class passengers can get one night in a 4-star hotel, while business class passengers receive a two-night stay in a 5-star hotel. The program is a great way for travelers to explore the city without the added cost of accommodation.
Reykjavik Stopover with Icelandair
According to the Icelandair site, the Stopover program allows passengers to take a stopover in Iceland for up to seven days at no extra airfare cost when flying between North America and Europe. While the program itself does not include complimentary hotels or tours, it makes it easy for travelers to add a stopover to their itinerary and offers resources and partnerships for booking accommodations and activities. The Stopover Buddy program, a previous campaign, connected travelers with an Icelandair employee for a personalized tour of the country.
Madrid Stopover with Iberia Airlines
Iberia’s Hola Madrid Stopover program allows passengers flying through Madrid to take a break for up to nine nights without increasing the cost of their ticket, according to the Iberia Airlines site. This program is available for flights to or from any international destination with a stopover in Madrid. In addition to the free stopover on the airfare, passengers receive exclusive discounts on hotels, museum passes, and other local experiences. A free two-day public transport card is also included to help travelers explore the city. The stopover can be scheduled on either the outbound or return journey.
Copenhagan Stopover with SAS
Based on information from the SAS site, the airline has a stopover program that permits travelers to stay in a Scandinavian city like Copenhagen for up to 72 hours without additional airfare charges. This option is primarily intended for passengers traveling to North America or Asia. To book the stopover, passengers may need to contact customer service via chat or phone, as it may not be available through the online booking system.
Singapore Stopover with Singapore Airlines and Changi International Airport
According to the Singapore Stopover site, the program allows travelers to stay in Singapore for a duration of their choosing, transforming a layover into a holiday. The site offers access to discounted prices on hotels and attractions, as well as special offers on experiences, dining, and shopping. The program is designed to be easily integrated into flight bookings and provides an opportunity to explore the city-state’s diverse culture and attractions.
Addis Abada Stopover with Ethiopian Airlines
According to the Ethiopian Airlines site, the airline offers a complimentary hotel stay in Addis Ababa for passengers with a layover of 8 to 24 hours. The program is designed to make extended connections more comfortable by providing a free transit visa, a one-night stay in a partner hotel, ground transportation, and meals. Eligibility requires that both the inbound and outbound flights be operated by Ethiopian Airlines, with the entire itinerary booked on a single ticket.
Lisbon Stopover with TAP Portugal
According to the TAP Portugal site, the Portugal Stopover program allows passengers to add a free stopover of one to ten days in either Lisbon or Porto without any additional airfare costs. The program is available for flights on the way to or from other destinations in Europe and Africa. Travelers who use the program gain access to discounts on partner hotels, restaurants, and tours from over 150 partners, and can also get a discount on a second domestic flight within Portugal to explore another region.
Abu Dhabi Stopover with Etihad Airways
According to the Etihad Airways site, the airline offers a complimentary stopover in Abu Dhabi for up to two nights, turning a connecting flight into a two-part holiday. This program applies to passengers flying a return flight with Etihad through Abu Dhabi, provided they book directly through the airline’s website. In addition to the free hotel nights, travelers who book the stopover receive a complimentary “Abu Dhabi Pass,” which provides discounts on attractions and a free local SIM card.
Helsinki Stopover with Finnair
According to the Finnair site, the airline offers travelers the chance to break up a long journey with a stopover in Helsinki for up to five days at no additional airfare. The airline’s website provides self-guided itinerary ideas for layovers of different lengths, from a few hours to a full day, and also offers links to book hotels, car rentals, and other activities. The program is available through the multi-city booking option on the airline’s website.
