Layovers don't have to be a drag. In fact, when planned well, they can be mini-adventures, giving you a taste of a new city or simply a chance to relax and recharge in a top-notch airport. If you need to take a layover in Europe, we have more good news: Europe is home to some of the world's best airports for layovers!
From luxurious lounges to quick city tours, many of Europe’s airports are equipped to make your layover enjoyable. But not all were created equally, so we’ve created this roundup of the top 8 best airports for layovers in Europe that’ll guarantee you a memorable stopover whether you have just a few hours or an entire day.
Overview. We have listed below our top 8 picks to showcase the best 8 airports for a layover:
- Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
- London Heathrow Airport
- Frankfurt Airport
- Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport
- Munich Airport
- Zurich Airport
- Athens International Airport
- Rome Fiumicino Airport
1. Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS)
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is not just a major hub but also a destination in itself. Schiphol offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and amenities like the Rijksmuseum Amsterdam Schiphol, where you can get a quick taste of Dutch culture with its collection of classical and contemporary art without leaving the terminal
There’s also a casino, a library, and an on-site hotel and spa where you can relax and unwind during your Amsterdam airport layover. Schiphol's efficient layout and proximity to the city centre make it perfect for a few hours’ stay.
If you have enough time, a quick 15-minute train ride takes you to the heart of Amsterdam. During your Amsterdam city layover you can wander the picturesque canals, visit the Anne Frank House, or check out the world-famous Rijksmuseum. There’s so much to do!
2. London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
As one of the busiest airports in the world, London Heathrow offers a wide range of amenities and services to keep you busy during your layover, including luxurious lounges, a massive variety of dining options, and numerous shops.
Heathrow’s Terminal 5 is the best place to be for a layover, and that’s because it’s home to the Heathrow Art Gallery, where you’ll find the works of various British artists on display. The airport also has excellent connections to the centre, making it easy to explore if you have a longer or overnight layover in London Heathrow.
With the Heathrow Express, you can be in central London in about 15 minutes. Follow one of our Heathrow layover itineraries to squeeze the most of your time in London, taking in all of its top sights like Buckingham Palace, the British Museum, or the Tower of London.
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3. Frankfurt Airport (FRA)
Frankfurt Airport is a key international hub and is equipped to cater to these travellers, with relaxation zones, numerous shops, and plenty of restaurants where you can grab a schnitzel or a currywurst for a taste of Germany. The airport’s close proximity to Frankfurt’s city centre also makes it easy to explore the city during a layover.
Hop on a train for a 15-minute ride to downtown Frankfurt. Here, you can explore the Römer, Frankfurt’s old town, stroll along the River Main, or visit the historic St. Bartholomew's Cathedral. Discover more in our Frankfurt layover guide.
Look to experience Frankfurt in the best way possible? This hop on, hop off bus tour gives you everything you need and the flexibility to see the city at your own pace: Check it out.
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4. Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)
Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport is renowned for looking after its long haul travellers with plenty of lounge options, top-notch French dining, and high-end shopping. Like many of the best layover airports in Europe, it also boasts a spa and a fitness centre, ideal if you fancy getting in a quick workout or massage between flights.
CDG’s contemporary terminals are well-organised, making it easy to navigate given its size.
A short train ride on the RER B will take you to Gare Du Nord, in the heart of Paris, in 25-30 minutes, and, if you have the time, getting out to explore during your Paris layover is always a good idea. Spend your layover visiting the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, or enjoying a coffee in a café by the Seine. So Parisian!
5. Munich Airport (MUC)
Munich Airport is known for much more than being the airport closest to Oktoberfest! Thanks to its efficiency and excellent services, including a Visitor's Park, mini-golf course, and relaxation areas, it’s one of the top choices for a layover in Europe.
If you have a long layover in Munich, don’t miss the opportunity to head into the city, which is just a 40-minute S-Bahn ride away.
Once you’re in the city centre explore Marienplatz, where you’ll find some of Munich’s most photo-worthy buildings, visit the historic Hofbräuhaus for a glass of German beer, or take a stroll in the English Garden.
6. Zurich Airport (ZRH)
Zurich Airport is a favourite with long haul travellers because it offers an in-terminal hotel - perfect if you’re looking for a quick nap or a refresh between flights. Another perk is its efficient public transport connections which make it easy to reach Zurich’s city centre in no time.
Catching a train to Zurich’s main station from the airport takes just 10 minutes, and, from here, you can spend your Zurich layover exploring the Old Town, visiting the Swiss National Museum, or enjoying the views from Lake Zurich.
7. Athens International Airport (ATH)
Athens International Airport is the main layover airport for travellers looking to explore the Greek islands because most islands are only served by domestic flights. The airport itself is equipped with the usual shops, restaurants, and relaxation zones you’d expect at any major airport, but its main selling point is, of course, being able to pop into the city to see the Acropolis on your layover.
It takes 40 minutes on the metro to get to the Acropolis from the airport. From here, you can explore the ancient ruins, including the iconic Parthenon, and take in the panoramic views of the city. If you have more time, don’t miss the Plaka district for charming streets and traditional Greek food. Check out our suggested Athens layover itineraries for more!
8. Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO)
Rome Fiumicino Airport is the top airport in Italy for layovers. It doesn’t have anything in particular that other airports don’t, except for… epic Italian food! Even if you don’t get out of the airport on your layover, you’ll be able to get a literal taste of Italy, and that certainly counts for something!
It’s also well-connected to Rome’s historic centre, making it an ideal layover spot. Whether you have a short or extended Rome airport layover, you will find plenty of activities to enjoy. Take the Leonardo Express train to reach central Rome in about 30 minutes.
On your layover, visit the Colosseum, the Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilicaor or simply wander through the historic streets, and be sure to sample a real Italian coffee. before returning to the airport for your connecting flight.
FAQs About Best Airports for Layover in Europe
Can I leave the airport during a layover in Europe?
Yes, you can generally leave the airport during a layover in Europe, provided you have enough time and any necessary visas. It’s important to check the transit and entry requirements for your specific layover country.
How much time do I need for a layover to explore the city?
To comfortably explore a city during a layover, you should have at least 6-8 hours. This allows time for travel to and from the airport, passing through security and customs, and seeing some key sights without feeling rushed.
What are the best European airports for connecting flights?
The best European airports for connecting flights include Amsterdam Schiphol, London Heathrow, and Frankfurt Airport, thanks to their extensive networks, efficient transit procedures, and numerous amenities for travellers.
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