The 7 Best Stopover Destinations for Your Next Trip

Long-haul flights don’t have to mean hours of boredom or endless scrolling in the departure lounge. With a little planning, your stopover can become a mini holiday in its own right—giving you the chance to discover a new city, try local delicacies, and tick a few extra sights off your travel bucket list.

Many airlines now offer stopover programs, making it easier (and often cheaper) to explore a second destination on your way to somewhere else. Whether you’ve got a few hours or a couple of days to spare, here are seven top stopover cities worth planning into your next adventure.

1. Singapore – Where the Airport Is Just the Beginning If you’re flying through Changi Airport, you’re already off to a good start. Often dubbed the best airport in the world, Changi is home to butterfly gardens, a rooftop pool, a 40-metre indoor waterfall, and even a cinema.

But don’t just stay in the terminal—hop on the metro and explore the city! Marvel at the futuristic Gardens by the Bay, wander through the misty Cloud Forest, or walk the elevated Supertree Grove skyway. Then, refuel at a hawker centre with local staples like chilli crab or Hainanese chicken rice.

Airline: Singapore Airlines Great for: Southeast Asia, Australia, New Zealand stopovers

2. Dubai – Futuristic Glitz Meets Desert Adventure With year-round sunshine and ultra-modern architecture, Dubai is a stopover like no other. Perfect for every type of traveller, this UAE city offers everything from luxury shopping to epic desert safaris.

In a few hours, visit the jaw-dropping Burj Khalifa, shop at the Dubai Mall, or relax on Kite Beach. If you’ve got a full day or more, try dune bashing in the desert, followed by a sunset BBQ under the stars.

Airline: Emirates Great for: Africa, Indian Ocean islands, Australasia

3. New York City – Big City Buzz in Just a Few Days A stopover in NYC is a chance to get a quick hit of big-city energy before heading off to your next adventure. From bagels in Central Park to Broadway shows and late-night pizza, this city packs a punch even in just 48 hours.

Must-sees include Times Square, the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, and a ride on the Staten Island Ferry for a free view of the Statue of Liberty.

Airlines: British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, United Airlines, Aer Lingus Great for: North and South America stopovers

4. Lisbon – Charming, Walkable, and Full of Flavor Lisbon might not be your first thought for a stopover—but it should be. With its compact layout, sunny climate, and rich cultural tapestry, it’s ideal for a short break on your way to Africa or South America.

Stroll through the historic Alfama district, visit the Belém Tower, and don’t miss a visit to Pastéis de Belém for a warm pastel de nata straight from the oven.

Airline: TAP Air Portugal Great for: South America and Africa

5. Amsterdam – Laid-Back Canals and Cultural Cool Thanks to KLM’s free stopover program, Amsterdam is a no-brainer. Just 20 minutes from Schiphol Airport, you can be cruising along canals or visiting world-class museums in no time.

Cycle through Vondelpark, visit the Van Gogh Museum, or explore the moving exhibits of the Anne Frank House. Then grab a stroopwafel and watch the world go by from a cosy café.

Airline: KLM Great for: Africa, Asia, the Americas, and more

6. Miami – Tropical Vibes and Cultural Flair For a colourful layover, Miami brings the heat—literally. With its iconic Art Deco District, lively Little Havana, and vibrant Wynwood Walls, it’s perfect for travellers en route to the Caribbean or Latin America.

Soak up the sun on South Beach, sip a Cafecito, and sample ropa vieja at a local Cuban eatery before you jet off again.

Airlines: American Airlines, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic Great for: The Caribbean, Central and South America

7. Doha – Where Culture and Futurism Collide Fast becoming a global stopover hotspot, Doha offers a fascinating mix of tradition and modernity. As the hub for Qatar Airways, the city is easy to explore thanks to free city tours and convenient airport transfers.

Wander the atmospheric Souq Waqif, take in the skyline from the Doha Corniche, and don’t miss the architecturally stunning Museum of Islamic Art.

Airlines: Qatar Airways, British Airways Great for: India, the Far East, and Australasia

?? Ready to Turn Your Stopover Into an Adventure? A stopover doesn’t just break up a long journey—it can turn your trip into something extraordinary. Whether you're craving a cultural experience, a beach day, or a culinary adventure, there’s a perfect layover destination waiting for you.

Get in touch with me today to plan your dream itinerary and make the most of your time in the air—and on the ground.