Got a long-haul flight coming up? Maybe with one gruelling 12- or 14-hour sector in a cramped seat that ties you up in knots, gets you to your destination at daybreak and too early to check into your accommodation, with jet lag as a parting gift? Why not fit in a stopover? As distinct from a layover, a stopover is a break of at least 24 hours, and it’s something I like a lot.
On my ideal flight to Europe, I take a morning flight out of Australia, arrive in Hong Kong, Bangkok or Tokyo in the evening, spend a couple of days sightseeing and relaxing with a splash in the pool, maybe a massage or a gym session, stay up late and sleep in so I’m more attuned to European time. Then I’ll depart on another morning flight to Europe to arrive in late afternoon. I can go straight to my accommodation, check in, have a meal, take a walk and into bed. The next day, I’m good to go.
Does a stopover add to the cost of the airfares?
In general, airlines prefer passengers to book straight through to their destination since it’s less complex, but in many cases a flight ticket with a stopover is only marginally more expensive than one without. If you want to do it without paying more for your flight ticket, your choice of airline might depend on where you want your stopover, rather than the other way around. If you want a couple of nights in Bangkok, Thai Airways is the logical choice, if it’s Hong Kong, then Cathay Pacific is your best bet. Unless your airline specifically offers a stopover deal, the easiest way to organise it is with a multi-city ticket, and most international airlines offer this option.
Which airlines facilitate stopovers?
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A stopover can also be a taster, a chance to look around in a new destination, perhaps take a day trip. If you like what you see, you might come back for a proper visit, and that’s a win for the airline. Some airlines offer stopover incentives. Icelandair encourages flyers on trans-Atlantic flights to spend a few days in Iceland, at no additional airfare. Singapore Airlines also facilitates stopovers, with attractive hotel plus experience packages.
Emirates goes all out with an online planner to create stopover itineraries that bundle hotels, attractions and flights. For example, a couple flying economy class return from Melbourne to London, departing in mid-April and returning at the end of the month, could book a Dubai stopover itinerary that might include three nights at Dubai’s four-star Four Points by Sheraton Bur Dubai with a guided half-day city tour, a desert safari plus a cruise through Dubai Marina. Total cost including economy flights is $5840. That’s $1449 more than a couple flying the same route and dates with no stopover. You could cut out some of the stopover experiences for a cheaper total price, but Emirates discounts the airfare by up to 10 per cent for stopover travellers, provided they book at least two paid experiences.
Turkish Airlines offers stopovers with free accommodation, but only to passengers travelling on international flights via Istanbul Airport with a layover of at least 20 hours. Economy passengers get one free night in a four-star hotel, business flyers get two nights in five-star accommodation. It’s unlikely that many travellers coming from Australia will qualify, and even a two-nighter hardly does justice to Istanbul, but an Istanbul stopover might not add anything to an airfare. For that couple flying economy from Melbourne to London, departing mid-April and returning at the end of that month, the total fare with a three-night stopover in Istanbul starts from $4301. However, for those same passengers flying straight through to London and back, with no stopover, the total cost is $4410.
The same applies to an Indian mini-break. A return airfare from Melbourne to London with Air India for those same April dates with a three-night stopover in New Delhi starts from $2454. Cut out the stopover and the price starts from $2375, a difference of just $79.
Fancy a three-night stopover in Tokyo on that same Melbourne to London itinerary? Fly return with Japan Airlines and the starting price is $3804, compared to $3087 for flying the same route without the stopover.
Flying to North America, the stopover options are fewer, although Hong Kong and Tokyo might just make the cut for those who don’t mind the longer flight times. Hawaii might be the right fit for a stopover on the way from Sydney to Los Angeles. One option is to book with Qantas, but the sector from Honolulu to Los Angeles is operated by Hawaiian Airlines, and Los Angeles to Sydney is aboard American Airlines. Total cost departing on April 15, stopping for three nights in Honolulu and returning to Sydney at the end of April, starts from $2253. However, if you were to fly non-stop Sydney-Los Angeles return with Qantas for those dates, the price starts from $1460. Flying American Airlines on that same route, the cost with a stopover is $US1656 ($2432).
My top five stopovers
Hong Kong
It may have lost some of its shine, but Hong Kong is Far East Asia 101, an energetic, exciting, rich and slightly brash induction into the Orient. For a user-friendly window on the exotic East with some of the best dining and shopping on the planet, and where English will get you through the day (more or less), Hong Kong is tailor-made.
Bangkok
Manic and dynamic at one moment, serene the next, Bangkok takes you on a wild ride. Its hotels are numbered among Asia’s finest and rates are a steal, the shopping is beyond fantastic and the dining scene is among the best of any Asian city. If street food is your thing, you’re in heaven.
Tokyo
Everything about the Japanese capital – the architecture, the bustle, the funky fashions, that hyperefficient metro system – suggests a slick, super-modern city, but then something will jolt you out of your comfort zone to remind you that it’s not so much a different place as a different planet.
Istanbul
Where Europe meets Asia, the one-time capital of both Christian and Islamic empires is a towering presence with a history that has endowed it with a cultural treasury, from the Byzantine Hagia Sophia to the wonders of Topkapi Palace and towering Ottoman mosques.
Shanghai
The dynamo of Chinese entrepreneurial capitalism, Shanghai comes straight from the future, complete with sci-fi architecture, yet the leafy streets of the former French concession endow it with a time-warped melancholy.
Michael Gebicki is a Sydney-based travel writer, best known for his Tripologist column published for more than 15 years in Traveller. With four decades of experience, his specialty is practical advice, destination insights and problem-solving for travellers. He also designs and leads slow, immersive tours to some of his favourite places. Connect via Instagram @michael_gebickiConnect via email.From our partners
What are the biggest benefits of taking a stopover in Istanbul, Tokyo, and Hong Kong?
Beyond the Layover: Why Stopovers in Istanbul, Tokyo & Hong Kong Make Sense
Long-haul travel doesn’t always have to be about getting from A to B as quickly as possible.Increasingly, savvy travelers are embracing the power of the stopover – intentionally extending their journey to experience a new city en route. Cities like istanbul, Tokyo, and Hong Kong are particularly well-suited for this, offering a compelling blend of culture, convenience, and value.Let’s explore why.
Istanbul: A Bridge Between Worlds
Strategically positioned between Europe and Asia, Istanbul is a natural choice for stopovers, especially for flights connecting North America with destinations in the Middle East, Africa, or Asia.
* historical Richness: From the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque to Topkapi Palace, Istanbul boasts a history spanning millennia. A 24-48 hour stopover allows for a meaningful exploration of this heritage.
* Culinary Delights: Turkish cuisine is world-renowned. A stopover provides the perfect possibility to indulge in kebabs, mezes, baklava, and strong Turkish coffee. Don’t miss the vibrant Spice market!
* Ease of Access: Istanbul Airport (IST) is a major international hub with excellent connections and readily available airport transfers.
* Visa Requirements: Many nationalities can enter Turkey visa-free for short stays, simplifying travel planning. Check current regulations before you travel.
Practical Tip: Utilize Istanbul’s efficient public transportation system – trams, buses, and ferries – to navigate the city affordably.
Tokyo: A Futuristic & Customary Fusion
Tokyo, a global metropolis, is a fantastic stopover option for flights between North America and Australia, or even within Asia. It’s a city that seamlessly blends cutting-edge technology with ancient traditions.
* Cultural Immersion: Explore serene temples and shrines like Senso-ji, wander through the vibrant Shibuya crossing, and experience a traditional tea ceremony.
* Gastronomic Adventure: Tokyo is a foodie paradise, offering everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to bustling ramen shops and fresh sushi markets like tsukiji Outer market.
* Efficient Transportation: Japan’s renowned bullet trains (Shinkansen) and extensive subway system make getting around Tokyo incredibly easy.
* Unique Experiences: Consider a sumo wrestling practice viewing, a visit to a themed cafe (robot, cat, owl – the options are endless!), or exploring the quirky Harajuku district.
Real-World Example: In 2024, Japan saw a significant increase in stopover tourism, particularly from North American travelers, due to favorable exchange rates and increased airline partnerships offering stopover programs.
Hong Kong: A Dynamic Cityscape & Culinary Hub
Hong Kong, a Special Administrative Region of China, is a vibrant and dynamic city that serves as a major hub for flights throughout Asia and beyond.
* Skyline Views: The iconic Hong Kong skyline, best viewed from Victoria Peak, is a breathtaking sight.
* Shopping Paradise: From luxury boutiques to bustling street markets, Hong Kong offers a diverse shopping experience.
* Dim Sum & Cantonese Cuisine: Hong Kong is famous for its dim sum and Cantonese cuisine. Explore local eateries and savor the flavors.
* Easy Navigation: Hong Kong boasts an efficient public transportation system, including the MTR (subway), buses, and iconic Star Ferry.
* Visa-Free Access: Many nationalities enjoy visa-free access to Hong Kong for tourism purposes.
Benefits of Choosing a Stopover:
* Cost Savings: Sometimes, flights with a stopover are cheaper than direct flights.
* Reduced Jet Lag: Breaking up a long journey with a stopover can definitely help alleviate jet lag.
* Dual Destination Experience: Effectively, you get two vacations for the price of one.
* opportunity to Explore: Discover a new city and culture you might not have otherwise visited.
Planning Your Stopover: Key Considerations
- Visa Requirements: always check visa requirements for your nationality before booking.
- Airport Transfer: Research airport transfer options (train, bus, taxi) and factor in travel time to the city center.
- accommodation: Book accommodation in advance, especially during peak season. Consider hotels near the airport or with easy access to public transportation.
- Luggage: Confirm whether your luggage will be automatically transferred to your final destination or if you need to collect and re-check it.
- Time Management: Be realistic about how much you can see and do in a short stopover. Prioritize your must-see attractions.
Airline stopover Programs: Many airlines now offer dedicated stopover programs, often including discounted accommodation and tours. these programs can simplify planning and offer significant value. Research options from airlines like Turkish Airlines (Stopover in Istanbul),Japan Airlines (Stopover in Tokyo),and Cathay Pacific (Stopover in Hong Kong).
A Note on Travel Insurance: Ensure your travel insurance covers potential delays or disruptions during your stopover.
