20 airlines offering a stopover - some are FREE!

A stopover refers to a planned pause during your flight itinerary, typically lasting from 24 hours up to ten days, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in a vibrant city en route to their final destination. Several airlines now provide complimentary stopovers, enabling passengers to explore a new destination without any additional airfare. In many cases, the onward flight retains the same booking reference, even if there are days between segments. Stopovers are especially popular on long-haul journeys, offering a welcome break and the rare opportunity to discover a new city during your travels. 

Shorter interruptions—known as layovers—often require passengers to remain within the airport, but these can be enhanced with premium lounge access, daybeds, or even spa and shower facilities. 

Extended stopovers, by contrast, invite travelers to spend several days exploring the culinary, cultural, and architectural highlights of a destination, often from a luxurious hotel base. Airlines may provide exclusive discounts on accommodation, sightseeing tours, restaurants, or even curated experiences in partnership with local tourism boards. Stopovers can transform a long-haul journey into a multi-destination adventure. Leading cities such as Doha (Qatar Airways), Lisbon (TAP Air Portugal), and Osaka (Japan Airlines) are among the most rewarding stopover destinations in 2025.

While some airlines streamline the stopover process with seamless booking tools, others require a bit more research to unlock these hidden travel perks. 

TAP Air Portugal, the nation's flagship carrier, offers travelers the opportunity to enjoy a complimentary stopover in either Lisbon or Porto for up to ten days on both inbound and outbound journeys. The airline’s celebrated stopover program features a 25% discount on domestic flights within Portugal during your stay, alongside a curated selection of exclusive hotel deals spanning Lisbon, Porto, the Azores, and more.

Travelers also benefit from savings on city passes, unlocking complimentary access to museums and cultural sites, plus discounted dining, attractions, and local transport. This seamless stopover option is ideal for those wishing to sample Portuguese cuisine, heritage, and hospitality. Discover Portugal Stopover Benefits See our TAP Air Portugal Business Class Review Explore the Businessclass Lisbon City Guide

Abu Dhabi, the cosmopolitan heart of the UAE, is an outstanding stopover hub for global travelers flying with Etihad Airways. Etihad’s current stopover program features up to 40% off select luxury hotels in Abu Dhabi, and complimentary stays of up to two nights at premium three- and four-star properties. Abu Dhabi’s blend of ultra-modern architecture, world-class art, and rich Emirati tradition makes it an enticing destination for business and leisure travelers alike.

Unlock premium fares and stopover perks on your next journey with Businessclass.

Qatar Airways’ renowned stopover program allows travelers to experience Doha for one to four nights. While accommodation is not free, the airline negotiates significant discounts on 4- and 5-star hotels, making luxury stays accessible. Guests may also book curated tours, including the signature 48 Hours in Doha package—an immersive journey through bustling souqs, acclaimed museums, and the city’s art scene.

Spend an afternoon at exclusive beach clubs, visit UNESCO World Heritage sites, or embark on adventures like whale shark excursions, kitesurfing, or bespoke desert safaris. Learn about Qatar Stopover Packages Read our Qatar Airways Business Class Review See our Qatar Airways First Class Review Discover the Best Luxury Hotels in Doha

Icelandair invites transatlantic travelers to pause in Reykjavik for up to seven days at no additional airfare. Although accommodation is not included, Icelandair offers tailor-made stopover itineraries (from one to five days), allowing guests to soak in the Blue Lagoon or tour the legendary Golden Circle. These itineraries are designed to help visitors maximize their Icelandic adventure, even during a brief stay.

Booking is streamlined—simply select 'Stopover in Iceland' during the ticketing process and specify your preferred duration. See Icelandair Stopover Details Read our Icelandair Business Class Review

Iberia’s Hola Madrid Stopover allows travelers to stay in Spain’s dynamic capital from one to six nights at no extra flight cost. Passengers can choose to pause in Madrid on the outbound or return leg and access attractive savings on partner hotel stays.

Additional perks include up to 20% off guided tours, museum admissions, culinary experiences, and cultural attractions. The package also comes with a complimentary two-day public transport card and VIP shopping privileges at El Corte Inglés. Explore Hola Madrid Stopover Options See our Iberia Business Class Review Review of Iberia Premium Economy Best Luxury Hotels in Madrid

Dubai, the glittering metropolis at the crossroads of East and West, is easily explored with a complimentary stopover of up to 48 hours on Emirates. Travelers can personalize their Dubai experience with a range of discounted activities—cultural tours, gourmet dining, adventure sports, and world-class entertainment are all on offer.

From the record-breaking Burj Khalifa to the world’s largest shopping mall, Dubai is a playground for luxury seekers. Additional benefits include 24-hour hotel check-in and 10% off future Emirates bookings. Multi-city booking tools and Emirates’ dedicated team simplify the process of crafting a bespoke Dubai stopover, complete with premium hotels and curated excursions. Discover Dubai Stopovers Emirates Business Class Review Emirates First Class Review Businessclass Dubai Travel Guide

Japan Airlines’ stopover initiative lets travelers enjoy up to six nights in Tokyo or Osaka at no extra airfare. By choosing the multi-city stopover option and leveraging the JAL Explorer Pass, guests can access over 30 destinations across Japan.

Benefit from exclusive discounts on hotels, transportation, and tours, making it seamless to experience Japan’s unique blend of tradition and innovation. Bookings are easily made via the multi-city/stopover tool or by calling JAL for domestic connections. JAL Stopover Information Japan Airlines Business Class Review Japan Airlines Premium Economy Review Best Luxury Hotels in Tokyo

Oman Air’s stopover program invites guests to discover Muscat—an enchanting city blending traditional Omani hospitality with contemporary flair—for up to three nights. Travelers enjoy discounted rates at select three-, four-, and five-star hotels, with additional savings on dining and spa experiences where available.

Explore Oman’s dramatic mountains, wild deserts, and pristine coastlines with tailor-made tours. Booking is easy—simply select "Stopover" after choosing your flight on the Oman Air website to customize your perfect Muscat experience. More on Oman Air Stopover Packages Oman Air Business Class Review Oman Air First Class Review Muscat Travel Guide Best Luxury Hotels in Oman

Book your next premium flight with a stopover through Businessclass for exclusive perks.

With Copa Airlines, travelers can enjoy a stopover in Panama City for up to seven days without any additional airfare. Discover this multicultural capital, famous for its international cuisine, lush biodiversity, white sand beaches, and tranquil islands.

Securing a Panama stopover is straightforward: select Panama as your stopover city when booking and choose your preferred duration. Copa offers attractive tour packages and luxury hotel deals to elevate your stay. More on Panama Stopovers Copa Airlines Business Class Review

Finnair provides travelers with 6, 12, and 24-hour layover options in Helsinki at no additional airfare, though accommodation fees apply. For a 24-hour stay, Finnair offers an extensive selection of hotels for a range of tastes, and travelers can accrue extra Finnair Points by booking directly through the airline’s portal.

Finnair’s website features helpful guides to maximize your Helsinki adventure, from food tours to design walks. Discover Finnair Layover Packages Finnair Business Class Review

Qantas enables travelers to include a complimentary stopover on eligible flights, including those operated in partnership with oneworld airlines. Whether you’re flying from Australia to the US or Europe, you can add strategic stops (such as San Francisco, Los Angeles, or Dallas) at no extra cost—simply book a multi-city itinerary.

While hotel and excursion costs are additional, Qantas’ flexible stopover options make it easy to craft your own multi-destination journey. Learn About Qantas Stopovers Qantas Business Class Review

Air Canada’s stopover program allows passengers to enjoy up to 48 hours in Toronto at no extra fare when traveling to destinations in the US, Canada, or South America. Explore famous sites like Niagara Falls and the CN Tower, all bookable through a multi-city ticket. Aeroplan loyalty members can also redeem a stopover of up to 45 days each way for just 5,000 Aeroplan points per direction.

Though not entirely free, this program represents excellent value for frequent flyers and delivers significant savings versus similar programs. Toronto Stopover Details Air Canada Business Class Review

Air France and KLM—two pillars of European aviation—offer stopovers of 24 hours or longer at no additional fare on flights booked through their Flying Blue loyalty program. Passengers can pause their journey in Paris or Amsterdam for up to 12 months before continuing to their destination, providing exceptional flexibility for exploring these global cities.

Accommodation is not included, but the ability to break up a trip and enjoy two iconic destinations on one ticket is a major draw. While the online booking process can be complex, Flying Blue call centers are available to streamline arrangements. Flying Blue Stopover Details Air France Business Class Review KLM Business Class Review Luxury Hotels in Paris Emily in Paris – City Guide Luxury Hotels in Amsterdam

Singapore Airlines’ stopover program is a gateway to Southeast Asia’s most dynamic city. Travelers can book discounted hotels and enjoy complimentary access to over 20 leading attractions through the Singapore Stopover Holiday package, which also includes airport transfers.

To book, select a multi-city itinerary with a Singapore stop of 24 hours to 30 days. Singapore Stopover Holiday Details Singapore Airlines Business Class Review Singapore City Guide

Turkish Airlines’ Istanbul stopover program offers complimentary accommodation for eligible passengers with layovers of at least 20 hours. Business Class guests enjoy up to two nights in a curated five-star hotel, while Economy travelers receive one night in a four-star property—completely free. This program is available to those transiting through Istanbul on eligible round-trip tickets.

Booking requires emailing Turkish Airlines at least 72 hours in advance with your ticket details, preferred room type, and dates. The process is slightly more involved but the value is exceptional. Details on Istanbul Stopovers Turkish Airlines Business Class Review Best Luxury Hotels in Istanbul

Royal Jordanian—affectionately known as "RJ"—offers the Zuwar Stopover Program from its Amman hub, allowing travelers to pause in Jordan at no extra airfare. A range of packages are available, covering transportation, entry fees, and dining for top religious and historical sites throughout the region.

In addition, passengers with layovers of less than 24 hours may be eligible for a free layover package that includes accommodation, meals, and transfers (subject to eligibility). Royal Jordanian Business Class Review

Air China distinguishes itself by offering free hotel accommodation and airport transfers for stopovers in eight major cities, including Beijing and Shanghai. Eligible international travelers receive one night’s stay (with breakfast) when their layover is between 6 and 30 hours.

First and Business Class guests enjoy luxury hotel options. Explore Air China’s Transit Hotel Program Air China Business Class Review Top Luxury Hotels in Beijing Top Luxury Hotels in Shanghai

Ethiopian Airlines provides a complimentary hotel stay for passengers in transit through Addis Ababa when no immediate connection is available—typically for layovers under 24 hours. The airline also includes airport transfers and free transit visas, making the process hassle-free.

No advance arrangements are needed; simply visit the Interline desk upon arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. More on Addis Ababa Stopovers Ethiopian Airlines Business Class Review

How do I book a free stopover flight? Most airlines offer user-friendly booking engines where you can select your stopover city and duration during the reservation process.

What are the typical duration limits for free stopovers? Each airline sets its own policy—minimums usually start at 24 hours, with maximums ranging from several days to two weeks. Always check the terms and conditions.

Is it possible to book a free stopover on a one-way ticket? Some airlines allow it, but policies vary. Consult the carrier’s specific rules before booking. 

Which European airlines offer free stopovers? TAP Air Portugal, Turkish Airlines, Finnair, Iberia, Air France, and KLM all provide free stopover options in Europe.

Does Qatar Airways offer free stopovers in Doha? Yes, though hotel stays are heavily discounted rather than complimentary.

How much can I save with a free stopover? Savings vary, but travelers can often reduce overall costs by up to 50% compared to direct routes, while enjoying an extra city at no extra airfare.

Are there hidden charges with free stopovers? Watch for airport taxes, surcharges, and expenses like accommodation, meals, and activities not included in the stopover package.

What are the main benefits of airline stopovers? Stopovers allow you to visit exciting destinations, break up long flights, and minimize jet lag—all while potentially saving money versus non-stop itineraries.

Can I earn frequent flyer points during a stopover? Yes, and some airlines also award bonus points for hotel bookings at stopover destinations.

Is it possible to explore multiple cities on a single stopover? Many airlines allow multi-city itineraries, letting you visit several destinations on one ticket—check with your carrier for details.