The Airports You’ll Actually Want to Get Stuck In: World’s Best Layovers Revealed
Long queues, delays and awkward wait times are often frustrating parts of modern air travel, but some airports are turning downtime into part of the adventure.
Singapore Changi Airport has claimed the crown as the world’s ultimate layover destination, achieving an outstanding 39 out of 40 points in new research by travel experts at eShores.
They’ve analysed the world’s busiest airports, creating a comprehensive Layover Airport Index, analysing comfort facilities, unique experiences, accessibility, and passenger sentiment across major international hubs. The research identifies which airports turn dreaded layovers into unexpected holiday highlights.
The world’s top five layover airports, revealed:
- Singapore Changi (SIN) – 39/40 points
Singapore Changi isn’t just an airport – it’s a destination in its own right. With more than 15 world-class lounges spread across four terminals, travellers can relax, enjoying everything from premium dining to spa treatments while waiting for connections.
However, the real magic can be found in the public areas. Wander through a living butterfly garden surrounded by tropical foliage, catch the latest film at the cinema, or even take a dip in the rooftop swimming pool. The Jewel Mall adds another level of wonder – this shopping paradise has an indoor waterfall! If you have time to explore Singapore itself, the efficient MRT whisks you into the centre in just 30 minutes. With a perfect 5-star Skytrax rating and glowing 4.7 Google reviews, it’s no wonder Changi tops the list as the world’s best airport for layovers.
- Doha Hamad International (DOH) – 38/40 points
More than 10 premium lounges, including the magnificent Al Mourjan and exclusive Oryx facilities, offer travellers passing through Hamad International a taste of Qatari hospitality at its finest. The airport’s crown jewel is its indoor tropical garden – a lush oasis with trees and tranquil water features that make you forget you’re in the desert (and in an airport!).
Hamad International isn’t just beautiful – it’s efficient too. The single terminal design means effortless connections, while the Metro Red Line can take passengers to downtown Doha’s glittering skyline in just 15-20 minutes.
- Incheon International (ICN) – 36/40 points
With more than 10 lounges, travellers at Incheon International can check into capsule hotels and dedicated nap zones when jet lag strikes. The airport celebrates Korean heritage through live traditional performances and serene indoor gardens. Perhaps most memorable is its ice skating rink – where else can you glide across the ice while waiting for your flight? With a 5-star Skytrax rating and strong passenger approval, Incheon earned a well-deserved third place in the ranking.
- Dubai International (DXB) – 35/40 points
Dubai International lives up to the emirate’s reputation for luxury. The airport doubles as a shopping destination, featuring everything from high-end fashion boutiques to traditional markets, all climate-controlled and open around the clock. Indoor gardens provide moments of calm between retail therapy, while the dining options mean you could sample cuisines from around the world without leaving the terminal. The Metro Red Line connection puts you in the heart of Dubai’s metropolis in 25-27 minutes, perfect for squeezing in a quick city visit during longer layovers.
- Istanbul Airport (IST) – 34/40 points
The flagship Turkish Airlines lounge sets the standard at Istanbul Airport, while YOTELAIR provides both airside and landside accommodation options for extended layovers. Culture enthusiasts will appreciate the on-site art gallery and museum exhibits, while the retail and dining scene balances Turkish specialities with international favourites. The Metro M11 line reaches central Istanbul in around 30 minutes, putting historic attractions within easy reach of travellers with time to spare.
Gavin Lapidus, Director at eShores, comments:
“Long layovers can often feel like lost time, but airports like these are changing the experience completely. With everything from capsule hotels to art galleries and tropical gardens, they’re becoming destinations in themselves. Singapore Changi’s near-perfect score shows how world-class facilities can genuinely enhance a holiday, whether you’re exploring their butterfly garden or taking a dip in the rooftop pool. For those planning multi-centre holidays, a stopover at one of these hubs can add an extra dimension to the trip.”
You can learn more about the ranking, methodology, and the world’s best airports for layovers on the eShores blog.
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