Having a layover that's too short to leave the airport sucks - unless of course you're in a great airport. In this case, the transit station becomes the destination itself. The best airports for long layovers have a lot to offer: entertainment, food, comfortable places to relax, and ~service~. When you're stuck in an airport, you basically need constant stimulation to avoid thinking about the fact that you're stuck in an airport and only time will free you. Airports that offer manicures, massages and other luxury services really make layovers less of a hassle.
Considering that you can often save money by choosing a connecting flight, you'll want to check out these great airports I've collected for you before you say no to your transfer. If you have a layover at one of the following airports, you should really treat your layover as a fun layover because with the right attitude and mindset, you can really make the most of it. Here are the best airports to be stuck in, if of course you must be stuck in an airport because let’s be honest, no one wants to have a layover. These airports will make it easy for you to get the most out of them.
Seoul Incheon International Airport : Seoul, South Korea
You can skate at this airport! Not only that, you can also watch movies at the cinema, get a massage, and even play golf. South Korea airports are the perfect place to kill time without going anywhere. If your layover is long enough, you can take advantage of a free city tour and get out and about before heading to your final destination.
Singapore Changi International Airport : Singapore
At Changi Airport, you can enjoy the famous fish pedicure, hang out in the gardens, go for a swim, take a nap, shower, steam bath, watch a movie or binge-watch an entire series on free WiFi. For adults in transit, this airport is like Disneyland. You won’t run out of fun things to do here.
Munich International Airport : Munich, Germany
During the summer you can surf at this airport. In winter you can go ice skating. Of course, these facts alone make this airport a destination rather than a flying purgatory. Add beer gardens, mini golf courses and personal sleepover cabins to the list, and you've intentionally created a Munich stopover opportunity for yourself.
Taoyuan International Airport: Taoyuan City, Taiwan
The airport offers travelers numerous opportunities for luxury, relaxation and delicious food, including a mini Hello Kitty Land. As you might imagine, everything is pink and there are plenty of souvenirs and photo spots to choose from.
Portland International Airport: Portland, Oregon, United States
If you have pets, this airport is your lifesaver! They have indoor artificial grass stations so your pet can relieve themselves without having to go outside. Considering it's one of the cleanest airports in the country and has plenty of local Portland food and drink, it's a pleasure to spend some time here.
San Francisco International Airport: San Francisco, California, United States
San Francisco International Airport houses a museum with exhibits on culture, art, history, science and aviation. There's lots to see, it's easy to get from one place to another, and the food is delicious. Oh, and there's a yoga room that travelers can use before their flight or take a class to focus and stretch.
Vancouver International Airport: Vancouver, Canada
Here's everything you need to know about Vancouver Airport: It's home to a giant jellyfish tank and an aquarium with thousands of sea animals.
Dubai International Airport: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
If you want to shop, this chic airport has endless high-end options for you, I mean, they have literally every designer brand you can think of. If you're not in the mood for shopping, you can work out in the gym, take a dip in the hot tub, soak up the steam in the sauna, or take a nap in the comfort of a private pod.
Hong Kong International Airport: Hong Kong, China
If you're into virtual reality or augmented reality, you'll want to make a trip to this airport. Play AR golf, go to the IMAX theater, visit and land a plane at the Aviation Discovery Center, or hang out at the Dream Come True Education Park. Or, if you don’t want to do anything else, head to the spa and relax.
