A layover doesn’t always mean wasting time at the airport. Whether you have a couple of hours or a long layover, there’s plenty to do. From sleeping to being productive to having a little adventure, a layover can be a time to relax, be useful or have fun. Here are some of the best things to do during your next layover.

Layover Time Guide – How Much Time Do You Need?

🕒 0–3 Hours: Stay at the airport. Focus on resting, dining, or exploring airport amenities.

🕒 3–6 Hours: Explore the airport lounges, shops, or cultural exhibits.

🕒 6+ Hours: Venture into the city! Many European airports (like Amsterdam, Zurich, and Copenhagen) offer direct transit links to city centers.

Sleep or Rest

If you’re feeling tired during a long layover, sleeping is the best way to recharge for your next flight. For extra comfort, book a hotel room at the airport, which means you can sleep in peace. Another option is airport sleeping pods now available in many major airports around the world, a compact but comfortable place to nap.

If you don’t want to spend money on a hotel or pod, websites like “Sleeping in Airports” have tips on where to sleep within terminals. Singapore and Seoul are top-rated airports to sleep, while Paris and JFK are the worst. Regardless of where you are, sleeping during a layover will make you feel more refreshed for the next leg of your journey.

Take a City Tour

If you have a half-day or more layover, get out of the airport and see the city. Many airports have information booths with details on city tours, public transportation, and how to get to the city centre quickly. Some airports, like Singapore Changi, even offer free half-day city tours for passengers with extended layovers. However, if delays cause you to miss your connecting flight, you might be eligible for missed connecting flight compensation, depending on the circumstances and airline policies.

Before you leave the airport, make sure you have all the necessary paperwork. Depending on the country you’re in, you might need a visa to leave the airport and explore. Always check visa requirements in advance, especially if you have a long layover in a foreign country. For the adventurous traveller, this can be a great opportunity to visit a new place, even if only for a few hours.

Pro Traveler’s Tip: Always check if your nationality qualifies for transit visas or visa-free entry before leaving the airport.

Visit Art Galleries

Airports aren’t just for travel; many have turned into cultural spaces with amazing art installations and galleries. If you’re an art lover, spending time in one of these galleries can be a great way to add some culture to your layover. Just check the airport map or the airport’s website to see if there’s an art gallery on-site.

Some of the best airports for art lovers are Amsterdam’s Schiphol, San Francisco International, and London Heathrow, which regularly showcase various exhibits. Other airports known for their art displays are Helsinki, Beijing, Atlanta, Edinburgh, Singapore, and Jacksonville. These spaces feature local and international artists, which is a great way to pass the time while waiting for your next flight.

Use Free Wi-Fi

Many airports now have free Wi-Fi across their terminals so you can stay connected during your layover. Want to stream videos, catch up on your favourite blogs, or get some work done? Having internet access can help you use your time wisely. Some airports may require you to sign up or register, but once you’re in, you can chill or get things done before your next flight.

Window Shopping

International airports have luxury shops and boutiques galore, so you can window shop during your layover. Whether you’re browsing high-end fashion or just enjoying the atmosphere, shopping at airport stores is a fun, free way to kill time. Here are some of the best airports for window shopping:

Hong Kong: The Airport Skymart has tons of stores.
Dubai: Open 24/7, you can shop anytime.
Singapore: 160 shops to explore.
Paris: Perfect for a last-minute luxury purchase before you head home.
London Heathrow (Terminal 5): Top-shelf shopping.

If you’re browsing without buying, it’s a great way to experience the luxury of these spaces without spending a dime.

Relax in a Lounge

One of the best ways to make the most of a long layover is to lounge. Many airports have lounges with comfy chairs, quiet spaces, free snacks, and even showers to freshen up before your next flight. Some lounges are for specific airlines or members only, but many are open to everyone for a fee or through credit card perks. Lounging can help you recharge in a peaceful environment, and it’s a great way to get away from the terminal chaos.

Eat and Drink

Tasting local or international food can turn an ordinary layover into a foodie experience. Many airports have multiple dining options from quick bites to high end restaurants. Whether you want to grab a coffee, indulge in a gourmet meal or try a local speciality there’s usually something for every kind of traveller. If you have a long layover take the time to eat, it’s satisfying and a great way to break up the hours waiting for your next flight.

Make New Friends

Airports are not just transit hubs; they can also be social spaces where people from all over the world converge. Strike up a conversation with a fellow traveller during a long layover, and you might get some great stories and even a lasting connection. Whether it’s at a café, in a lounge, or waiting at the gate, talking to a stranger can pass the time and make your layover more fun. Who knows, you might meet someone with similar travel plans or make a new friend.

Explore the Area

One of the perks of having a long layover is the chance to explore a new city, even if it wasn’t part of your original itinerary. If your layover is long enough, take advantage of the opportunity to leave the airport and see what’s around the area. Some travellers plan their itineraries to allow for stopovers in interesting cities. Whether it’s a quick tour of the city centre or a visit to a famous landmark, exploring the area can turn a long layover into an unexpected adventure. Just make sure to check visa requirements and have enough time to get back to the airport before your next flight!

Top European Airports for Long Layovers

Airports	Highlights
Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS)	Free art exhibitions, city tours, and rooftop observation decks.
Helsinki Airport (HEL)	Nature-inspired lounges, saunas, and the chance to meet Santa (seasonally).
Zurich Airport (ZRH)	Easy city access and scenic Swiss views during long layovers.
Munich Airport (MUC)	On-site brewery, mini-golf, and a visitor’s park.

Conclusion

A layover is more than just waiting time. Whether you choose to rest, explore the airport, or venture out into the city, there are plenty of ways to make the most of it. With some planning, a stopover can be a time to relax, explore, or even create new experiences before your next flight.

What to Do During a Layover?