THE AIRPORTS WHERE YOU'D ACTUALLY LOVE A LONG LAYOVER
- Changi International Airport in Singapore offers a wide array of dining options, entertainment amenities, and efficient connectivity between terminals, making it a great airport for a long layover.
- Hamad International Airport in Qatar has been ranked as the second-best airport in the world and offers a range of activities, including shopping, a gym, a spa, and a museum showcasing art.
- Tokyo Haneda Airport in Japan is conveniently located near popular Tokyo destinations and features a newly inaugurated airport garden, along with abundant shops and restaurants to explore during a layover.
Many travelers see layovers, especially long ones, as the least enjoyable part of their journey. But, occasionally, long layovers can be pretty pleasant, offering opportunities to stretch your legs, savor a delicious meal, and explore exciting shops and unique amenities at the airport.
A good airport for a layover typically has qualities like excellent dining options, cleanliness, helpful staff, shopping opportunities, hotels within a short distance, and overall efficiency. Based on these criteria, we explore some of the airports where it is worth spending a lengthy layover.
Changi International Airport (SIN), Singapore
From the world's largest indoor waterfall to the world's tallest slides inside an airport, Singapore Changi offers much more than just air travel. The airport currently has more than 80 restaurants, cafes, and bars, providing ample choices for food enthusiasts. The airport also includes a movie theater, along with a sound and light show, complemented by additional offerings such as a spa and canopy bridge where you can take a stroll and stretch your legs while enjoying a scenic view.
Although the airport is large and has four terminals, it is relatively efficient. Four terminals are connected by the SkyTrain, a shuttle-free service to both transit and public areas. SkyTrain has a waiting time of four minutes and takes four minutes to connect between terminals. Whether catering to an overnight stay or a brief respite to combat jet lag, the airport houses multiple hotels within Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and 3.
Read more: Jewel: Singapore Airport's Very Own Tourist Attraction
With all that it has to offer, not surprisingly, Skytrax has rated Singapore Changi Airport as the world's best airport for the seventh consecutive time in 2023. In addition, the airport reopened its Terminal 2 following a massive 3.5-year expansion project, now providing even more for travelers.
Hamad International Airport (DOH), Qatar
Hamad International Airport (DOH) has been ranked as the world's second-best airport, earning honors for 'World's Best Airport Shopping' and 'Best Airport in the Middle East' for the ninth consecutive year in the 2023 Skytrax World Airport Awards.
Beyond its impressive accolades, the airport provides a range of activities. In addition to enjoying some retail therapy and vibrant cafes, Hamad Airport offers amenities like a gym and a spa. Moreover, travelers can explore a museum showcasing international and local works of art throughout the airport.
Tokyo Haneda AIrport (HND), Japan
Haneda Airport, conveniently located less than an hour away from popular Tokyo destinations like Asakusa, Shibuya, and Shinjuku, stands out as the city's most accessible airport. Abundant shops and restaurants offer ample diversions while waiting for your flight, and free shuttle buses facilitate easy movement between the three terminals.
During your next visit to Haneda Airport, consider heading to Terminal 3 to explore the newly inaugurated Haneda Airport Garden, unveiled in January 2023. This modern complex hosts 80 new restaurants, cafes, and shops. Also, it features two hotels and a spa with an outdoor hot spring, adding to the airport's array of offerings.
According to Skytrax awards, Tokyo Haneda is the world's third-best airport after Singapore Changi and Hamad International Airport.
Istanbul International Airport (IST), Turkey
The new Istanbul Airport serves as a major hub for numerous airlines, facilitating the daily connection of tens of thousands of passengers to their next flights. Having a long layover can be a pleasant experience as there are various activities and amenities to explore.
Istanbul Airport boasts numerous elegant lounges and offers a diverse range of shopping options, including duty-free stores, souvenir shops, and international brands, making it an enjoyable airport for a lengthy layover. Beyond shopping and dining, the airport features a museum showcasing both modern and traditional works of art. There is also a possibility to take a 30-minute helicopter tour from the Istanbul Airport helipad.
For now, Istanbul Airport has only one terminal, making it convenient for passengers during layovers as there is no need for a shuttle service between terminals.
Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)
Hong Kong International Airport stands as a major hub in Asia. With its numerous amenities and services, there is no shortage of activities to enjoy during transit at the airport. The airport is particularly renowned for its vibrant food scene, featuring many Michelin-starred restaurants, including the well-known Ho Hung Kee.
Beyond shopping and dining, the airport features a dedicated children's play area and several captivating art installations and exhibitions. Additionally, there is a selection of duty-free electronics stores where you can explore the latest gadgets. The airport has two terminals, making it fairly easy to transfer for passengers.
Read more: Hong Kong International Airport: A Terminal Guide
Do you have a favorite airport for a lengthy layover? Let us know in the comments section below.
Sources: Skytrax
2023-11-11T20:38:53Z dg43tfdfdgfd