Want to turn a long layover into a mini-vacation? Many airlines now offer free or discounted stopover programs, letting you explore exciting cities without extra airfare. These programs often include perks like free hotel stays, discounted tours, and even complimentary meals. Here’s a quick look at the top airlines offering stopover packages in 2025:
- TAP Air Portugal: Stopover in Lisbon or Porto for up to 10 days with no extra airfare, plus discounts on domestic flights and exclusive deals on hotels and tours.
- Turkish Airlines: Free hotel stays in Istanbul (1 night for economy, up to 3 nights for business class) or a free city tour for layovers over 6 hours.
- Qatar Airways: Discounted luxury hotel stays in Doha starting at $14 per night, with flexible stopovers up to 96 hours.
- Singapore Airlines: Discounted stopover packages with hotel stays, free entry to attractions, and airport vouchers.
- Royal Air Maroc: Free stopovers in Casablanca with hotel stays or lounge access for long layovers.
- Saudia: Free transit visa and complimentary hotel stays for stopovers in Saudi Arabia up to 4 days.
- Etihad Airways: Free hotel stays for up to 2 nights in Abu Dhabi, plus discounts on tours and activities.
Quick Comparison
| Airline | Stopover City | Free Hotel Stay? | Duration Allowed | Key Perks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TAP Air Portugal | Lisbon, Porto | No | Up to 10 days | Discounts on flights, tours, hotels |
| Turkish Airlines | Istanbul | Yes | Up to 7 days | Free city tour or hotel stay |
| Qatar Airways | Doha | No (Discounted) | 12–96 hours | Hotels from $14/night, tours |
| Singapore Airlines | Singapore | No (Discounted) | 24 hours–30 days | Free attraction access, vouchers |
| Royal Air Maroc | Casablanca | Yes | Unlimited | Free lounge or hotel for long layovers |
| Saudia | Saudi Arabia | Yes | Up to 4 days | Free visa, Umrah options |
| Etihad Airways | Abu Dhabi | Yes | Up to 72 hours | Free hotel stays, tour discounts |
These stopover programs are a great way to explore new destinations, save money, and break up long-haul flights. Whether you’re looking for a quick city tour or a multi-day adventure, these airlines have you covered.
1. TAP Air Portugal
TAP Air Portugal’s Portugal Stopover Program has been recognized as the best by Global Traveler magazine for six years in a row. This program allows travelers to explore Lisbon or Porto without adding any extra airfare costs.
Stopover Duration and Flexibility
With this program, you can plan a stopover of up to 10 days in Lisbon or Porto, either on your way to your destination or on your return flight.
Even better, stopover passengers get a 25% discount on domestic flights within Portugal. This makes it easier to hop between cities like Lisbon and Porto, relax on the Algarve’s beaches, or even visit the stunning Azores.
Cost of Stopover
There’s no additional cost for adding a stopover to your trip.
Additional Perks
The program gets even better with partnerships involving over 150 companies across Portugal. These partnerships unlock exclusive discounts on hotels, restaurants, tours, museums, and more. Here are some of the standout offers:
- Turim Hotels: Use the code TAPSTOPOVER to enjoy a 15% discount, early check-in, and room upgrades.
- Hilton Garden Inn Évora: Save 12% on stays of at least two nights with the code PR10TA, which includes complimentary room upgrades and a special Portuguese welcome.
- Azoris Hotels: Get 10% off flexible rates for Classic rooms by booking directly with the code STO22TP-A.
Plus, if you book accommodations through Booking.com via TAP Air Portugal, you’ll receive an additional 4% instant discount, which can be combined with other deals.
Ease of Booking the Stopover
Booking your stopover is simple. On the TAP website, select your travel dates, departure, and destination, then click the “Add Stopover” button. From there, choose your stopover city and dates.
At check-in, just present your stopover booking confirmation, which you can access through the FlyTAP website, booking management, email, or the TAP mobile app.
Up next, let’s explore the stopover perks offered by Turkish Airlines.
2. Turkish Airlines
Turkish Airlines’ “Stopover in Istanbul” program is a standout feature, offering free accommodation based on your ticket class and departure location.
Stopover Duration and Flexibility
To take advantage of this program, your layover in Istanbul must be at least 20 hours, and it can extend up to 7 days. The complimentary accommodation must be used consecutively and is available for one leg of your journey – either on your way to your destination or on your return flight.
What’s Covered and What’s Not
The accommodation itself is entirely free. However, travelers are responsible for covering visa fees, local transportation, and travel expenses between the airport and the hotel.
Accommodation and Perks
Here’s what you get based on your ticket class:
- Economy Class: One night in a 4-star hotel
- Business Class: Two nights in a 5-star or boutique hotel
For select long-haul travelers coming from countries like the USA, Canada, Japan, Australia, and others, the perks are even better:
- Economy Class: Two nights in a 4-star hotel
- Business Class: Three nights in a 5-star or boutique hotel
If your layover is shorter – between 6 and 24 hours – you can choose the free “TourIstanbul” excursion instead of the accommodation. Note that you can’t combine both offers.
How to Book Your Stopover
Booking is simple but requires planning. Submit your request at least 72 hours before departure. You’ll need to provide details like your name, PNR, ticket number, travel dates, room preference, phone number, and email. You can send this information via the designated email for your departure country or use the online booking system with your PNR and surname. Just make sure your ticket is purchased before applying.
Next, let’s explore how Qatar Airways elevates the stopover experience.
3. Qatar Airways
Qatar Airways’ Discover Qatar program makes Doha an affordable and accessible gateway to the Middle East, thanks to government-subsidized pricing and flexible booking options.
Stopover Duration and Flexibility
Qatar Airways gives travelers a generous window to enjoy their stopover in Doha, offering transit times from 12 to 96 hours. You can stay for up to four nights, allowing ample time to explore the city. Even better, the program permits two stopovers per ticket – one during your outbound journey and another on your return.
This program is available year-round, giving you the option to book up to 12 months in advance. Unlike seasonal offers, this flexibility ensures you can plan your trip whenever it suits you. Additionally, flexible check-in and check-out times align with your flight schedule, making it convenient whether you’re staying for just one night or the full four days.
These features make the stopover package both practical and budget-friendly.
Cost of Stopover (Free or Discounted)
While not entirely free, Qatar Airways’ stopover packages are incredibly affordable, with rates starting at just $14 per person per night. These discounted prices are subsidized by the Qatari government to promote tourism, offering luxury stays at a fraction of the usual cost.
Here’s a breakdown of the pricing:
| Hotel Category | 1 Night | 2 Nights | 3 Nights | 4 Nights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard (4-star) | $14 | $23 | $49 | $76 |
| Premium (5-star) | $24 | $43 | $77 | $111 |
| Premium Beach (5-star) | $31 | $57 | $98 | $138 |
| Luxury (5-star + breakfast) | $83 | $162 | $255 | $348 |
Prices are per person based on double occupancy. Note that these rates cover the room only, so extras like minibar, room service, or laundry come at an additional cost.
This pricing makes Qatar Airways’ stopover program a standout choice for travelers seeking luxury on a budget.
Additional Perks
Qatar Airways sweetens the deal with extra perks to enhance your stopover experience. Many packages include tours and excursions designed to showcase the best of Doha. Participating hotels often provide exclusive benefits for stopover guests.
For instance, in 2025, Hyatt Regency Doha offered Discover Qatar guests a room upgrade to a Twin or King City View Room on a high floor, a complimentary drink at their rooftop bar Sora, 30% off at hotel restaurants, and a discounted 30-minute jet-lag massage.
You can also customize your stay with optional add-ons like breakfast and airport transfers, all available at special rates. This flexibility allows you to tailor your stopover to your preferences and budget.
Ease of Booking the Stopover
Booking your stopover is simple and requires just 3 days’ advance notice. The process is handled through the Discover Qatar platform, where you can choose your hotel category and duration with ease.
For U.S. travelers, the process is even more convenient: citizens from over 100 countries can enter Qatar visa-free, eliminating the hassle of applying for a visa. However, travelers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Next, we’ll explore how Singapore Airlines blends luxury and convenience in their stopover program.
4. Singapore Airlines
Singapore Airlines introduces its “Holiday Before the Holiday” stopover program, designed to give premium passengers a luxurious experience at Changi Airport.
Stopover Duration and Flexibility
If your layover is more than 24 hours but less than 30 days, Singapore Airlines offers the perfect opportunity to explore Singapore at your own pace. Whether you’re interested in a quick city tour or a longer mini-vacation, the program is tailored to break up long-haul flights and ease travel fatigue. For those with at least 5.5 hours between flights, the airline even provides a complimentary Singapore tour, making it accessible for shorter layovers as well.
Cost of Stopover (Free or Discounted)
While Singapore Airlines no longer prominently features its traditional free stopover package, it still offers the Singapore Stopover Holiday package at discounted rates. This package includes accommodations at select hotels, airport transfers, and free access to over 20 attractions and activities. Although specific pricing isn’t always listed, bundling a stopover with your flight can sometimes be more cost-effective than booking a direct route. For premium cabin passengers, the stopover program remains complimentary, complete with added perks.
Additional Perks
Premium travelers enjoy a range of exclusive benefits, including complimentary one- or two-night hotel stays, curated tours, and transport options. Additionally, they receive SGD 40 to spend at the airport, along with lounge access, regardless of their cabin class. Economy passengers aren’t left out – they get SGD 20 vouchers for use at Changi Airport’s shops and restaurants. For premium passengers, the program also includes Singapore Night Tours, adding a unique touch to the experience.
Singapore Airlines collaborates with local hotels to provide reduced rates and special amenities for all stopover guests. And let’s not forget Changi Airport itself, which is more than just a transit hub. With attractions like movie theaters, butterfly gardens, and a rooftop pool, it’s no surprise that Changi was crowned the World’s Best Airport in the 2024 Skytrax World Airport Awards. It also earned accolades for Best Airport Dining and Best Airport for Leisure Amenities.
Ease of Booking the Stopover
Adding a stopover to your trip couldn’t be easier. When booking your flight, simply select the “Add Stopovers” option to include Singapore as a stop. For the latest updates on perks and eligibility, head over to the Singapore Airlines website.
Next, we’ll take a look at how Royal Air Maroc uses Morocco’s strategic location to offer enticing stopover options.
5. Royal Air Maroc
Royal Air Maroc, Morocco’s flagship airline and the largest in the country, connects travelers to Africa and beyond. Operating out of its hub at Mohamed V Airport in Casablanca, the airline links Europe, Africa, North America, and the Middle East. Its stopover program offers a unique opportunity to explore Morocco at your own pace, thanks to its unmatched flexibility.
Stopover Duration and Flexibility
What sets Royal Air Maroc apart is its unlimited stopover duration in Casablanca. Whether you’re looking for a quick 48-hour introduction to Moroccan culture or planning a longer stay to dive deeper into the country’s rich heritage, you can extend your layover without worrying about extra airfare costs.
For layovers between 4 and 8 hours, passengers are treated to meal vouchers and access to the Oasis transit lounge. If your layover exceeds 8 hours, the airline steps it up with meal vouchers and, subject to availability, hotel accommodations to make your wait more comfortable.
Cost of Stopover (Free or Discounted)
The stopover program is completely free. If you’re unable to leave the airport during a long layover, Royal Air Maroc provides access to the Relax Lounge or even a hotel room, depending on availability. For those allowed to venture outside, the airline collaborates with the Transit & Lodging agency in Terminal 2 to arrange hotel accommodations beyond the airport.
Additional Perks
Royal Air Maroc ensures passengers are well taken care of, tailoring services to the length of your layover. Shorter connections come with meal vouchers and lounge access, while extended layovers may include hotel stays – all designed to keep your journey as smooth as possible.
Ease of Booking the Stopover
Arranging a stopover with Royal Air Maroc is straightforward but requires a phone call instead of an online booking. To plan your free Casablanca stopover, call 800-344-6726. This allows you to discuss your preferences and ensure the best arrangements for your transit.
Next, discover how Saudia leverages its location to create memorable stopover experiences.
6. Saudia
Saudia, the national airline of Saudi Arabia, launched an innovative service in January 2023 called “Your Ticket Your Visa.” This feature simplifies the process of obtaining a transit visa by allowing passengers to secure it right when they book their flights. It’s designed to make stopovers more convenient and enjoyable, offering travelers a smoother way to explore Saudi Arabia during their journey.
Stopover Duration and Flexibility
Saudia’s stopover program is tailored for layovers lasting 12 hours or more, allowing travelers to stay in the Kingdom for up to 4 days (96 hours). The transit visa, valid for 90 days from the issue date, is single-use and non-extendable. This gives visitors the chance to explore Saudi Arabia’s attractions, experience its rich heritage, or even perform Umrah during their layover.
Cost of Stopover (Free or Discounted)
The transit visa itself is free, though there are minimal additional charges: a $10.50 application fee and medical insurance starting at $3.45. On top of this, passengers can enjoy complimentary hotel accommodations as part of the 96-hour transit program. This benefit is available to travelers flying with both Saudia and Flynas.
Additional Perks
The stopover program doesn’t stop at free accommodation. Religious travelers can use Nusuk.sa to schedule Umrah or Ziyarah appointments, providing added convenience. However, it’s important to note that the visa does not cover participation in the Hajj pilgrimage. To take advantage of the complimentary hotel stay, bookings must be made at least 48 hours before departure and are limited to one use per booking reference.
Ease of Booking the Stopover
With the “Your Ticket Your Visa” service, transit visas are issued automatically during flight bookings, removing the need for a separate application process. These visas are valid at all international airports in Saudi Arabia, giving travelers flexibility in planning their stopovers. Since the visa remains valid for 90 days, there’s plenty of time to finalize travel arrangements after booking.
Up next, let’s take a closer look at Etihad Airways’ stopover options in Abu Dhabi.
7. Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways takes the hassle out of long layovers in Abu Dhabi by turning them into exciting mini-getaways with its stopover program. This initiative invites travelers to experience the vibrant city of Abu Dhabi without adding extra flight costs to their journey.
Stopover Duration and Flexibility
You can choose from three stopover durations with Etihad: 24, 48, or 72 hours in Abu Dhabi. Plus, the program includes a 24/7 flexible check-in and check-out policy, so you’re not tied to rigid hotel schedules. This makes it easier to fit the stopover into your travel plans.
Cost of Stopover (Free or Discounted)
One of the best features? Etihad offers up to two free hotel nights at select properties in Abu Dhabi, with no added cost to your flight. After booking your return flight through Abu Dhabi, you’ll receive a list of eligible free hotels. A stopover coupon is applied during payment to cover the cost of your stay. While breakfast isn’t included, the program also provides discounts on city tours and activities to enhance your visit.
Additional Perks
The stopover program doesn’t stop at free accommodations. Travelers can also enjoy special deals on tours, experiences, and even discounted stays at luxury hotels. For added convenience, the Abu Dhabi Pass grants access to a variety of local attractions and services, making your layover experience even more rewarding.
Ease of Booking the Stopover
Booking your stopover is straightforward. Simply purchase a return flight connecting through Abu Dhabi with Etihad Airways. The stopover is seamlessly integrated into your travel itinerary, ensuring a smooth planning process.
With its thoughtful perks and simple booking process, Etihad Airways’ stopover program transforms a layover into a memorable opportunity to explore Abu Dhabi.
How to Get the Most from Your Stopover
Turning a stopover into a memorable experience takes a bit of planning and preparation. Think of it as a mini-vacation within your journey.
Research and Plan Before You Fly
Start by listing the key attractions and landmarks you’d like to visit during your stopover. Prioritize them based on how much time you have available. It’s also worth looking into the airport’s amenities – lounges, Wi-Fi, spas, or even art exhibits – just in case you need to stay inside due to weather or delays.
Build some flexibility into your schedule for potential delays and security checks. Factor in travel time between the airport and the city, keeping local traffic in mind, and allow extra time for immigration and customs. Don’t forget to check passport and visa requirements for your stopover destination well ahead of time.
Once your plan is set, pack smartly to make the most of your time.
Optimize Packing
Pack with both your stopover activities and final destination in mind. Use packing cubes and choose versatile, wrinkle-resistant clothing to keep things organized and manageable. This approach helps you pack light while staying prepared.
For your stopover, prepare a small day bag with essentials. Include items like a lightweight, packable jacket for unexpected weather changes, travel-sized toiletries for freshening up, and a portable phone charger to stay connected.
Maximize Stopover-Specific Discounts
Many airlines offer stopover programs designed to showcase their hub cities. These often include perks like discounted or even free hotel stays, guided tours, and special offers. For instance:
- Qatar Airways provides stopover packages with luxury hotel stays starting at $14 for a one-night stay in a four-star hotel.
- TAP Air Portugal allows up to five nights in Lisbon or Porto, featuring discounted accommodations and tours.
- Turkish Airlines offers free hotel stays – up to two nights for business-class passengers and one night for economy-class travelers – in Istanbul.
These discounts can make your stopover both enjoyable and budget-friendly.
Find the Right Flight Deals
To make your stopover even more cost-effective, use platforms like Dollar Flight Club. Their Premium+ membership ($99/year) provides alerts for international flight deals and mistake fares, helping you find affordable routes with stopover opportunities.
You can also use flight search engines to explore airlines that offer stopover programs. Booking these is usually straightforward, whether through the airline’s website or by contacting customer service.
Remain Flexible
Delays can happen, so always have a backup plan. Keep an eye on your connecting flight and be ready to adjust your schedule if needed. Flexibility is especially important when you’re working with tight timeframes.
If you prefer to stay close to the airport, some airports offer city tours, which can be a great compromise between staying in the terminal and venturing too far out. Alternatively, explore local cuisine by visiting nearby restaurants or street vendors – just make sure they’re close to transportation hubs.
With thoughtful planning and a bit of spontaneity, your stopover can become an unforgettable part of your trip.
Conclusion
Airline stopover programs turn long-haul flights into opportunities for multi-city adventures – often without adding much, if anything, to your airfare. They’re a fantastic way to explore new destinations, usually at airline hubs, while keeping additional travel costs to a minimum.
Many airlines provide attractive stopover packages, some starting as low as $14 per person per night for four-star accommodations. Beyond the savings, these programs offer travelers a chance to immerse themselves in new experiences, reduce jet lag, and break up lengthy flights, ensuring you arrive at your final destination feeling more refreshed and ready to explore.
FAQs
How do I book a stopover with these airlines, and what should I keep in mind when planning one?
Booking a stopover largely depends on the policies of the airline you’re flying with, as these can differ significantly. Begin by checking whether the airline offers free or budget-friendly stopovers, and take note of their rules regarding how long you can stay, which destinations qualify, and any additional fees.
As you plan, think about how a stopover fits into your overall travel schedule. Aim to find flights that give you ample time to explore the stopover destination without stepping outside the airline’s requirements. Tools like Dollar Flight Club can be a game-changer, helping you uncover discounted flights that can save you up to 90% on domestic and international travel – making your stopover both exciting and cost-effective.
Are there any hidden costs or fees travelers should know about when using free stopover programs?
While many airlines promote free stopovers, it’s important to remember that extra costs can still sneak in. For instance, airfare typically doesn’t cover expenses like hotel accommodations, meals, or getting around locally. Some airlines, like Turkish Airlines, might offer complimentary hotel stays for a short duration, but you could still be on the hook for taxes or minor fees. Similarly, Fiji Airways may waive departure taxes for stopovers under 48 hours, but that perk might not extend to longer stays.
Another factor to keep in mind is that certain ticket classes or add-ons – like guided tours or upgraded accommodations – might come with additional charges. To steer clear of unexpected expenses, take the time to thoroughly review the airline’s stopover policies and terms before finalizing your booking.
What are the advantages of choosing a stopover program instead of a direct flight?
Opting for a stopover program can transform your trip into something far more rewarding. Many airlines now offer free or low-cost stopover options, letting you explore an extra destination without stretching your budget. Some even sweeten the deal with complimentary hotel stays during your stopover, giving you the chance to dive into a new city before continuing to your final destination.
Stopovers aren’t just about exploring – they can also save you money. Flights with stopovers are often less expensive than direct flights, making them a smart choice for travelers keeping an eye on their wallets. Plus, they add a whole new layer of adventure to your journey. Whether you’re looking to cut costs or simply make the most of your travel time, stopover programs are a fantastic way to add something special to your trip.
