Long Layover? Explore These Cities Right From the Airport

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Travelers with long layovers can now make the most of their waiting time by exploring nearby attractions — and a growing number of airports are making it easier than ever.

Singapore’s Changi Airport has relaunched its free layover tours after a three-year hiatus due to the pandemic. These four daily guided tours last under three hours and showcase key sights in the city such as the National Gallery, Arab Street, and Chinatown.

The Jewel Tour, unique to Changi, keeps passengers within the airport grounds and includes stops at highlights like the Shiseido Forest Valley, the HSBC Rain Vortex, and a tasting of iconic Singaporean snacks.

According to Flight Centre UK’s Justin Penny, many travelers use stopovers to reduce ticket prices and expand their flight options. A 24 to 48-hour layover in Singapore can be surprisingly affordable — even with the cost of a hotel.

Istanbul Airport is currently the only one in Europe to offer free layover tours through Turkish Airlines. However, many European airports are close enough to city centers for travelers to create their own sightseeing itineraries.

Tips for Planning a DIY Layover Tour:

  • Ensure you’re allowed to exit and re-enter the airport.
  • Research public transport options and allow extra return time in case of delays.
  • Keep your sightseeing list short and manageable.
  • Use airport lockers for baggage storage if early check-in isn’t available.

Sample Layovers Around Europe:

Amsterdam: Schiphol Airport offers cultural stops like a branch of the Rijksmuseum inside the terminal. For layovers over five hours, a 20-minute train takes you to the historic city center and iconic canals.

Geneva: Geneva Cointrin Airport (GVA) is just 4 km (2.5 miles) from the city center, making it one of the most accessible airports in Europe, by train or bus. A covered walkway leads directly to Geneva Airport railway station, just 250 m from the terminal. Trains run every few minutes from early morning until late night, reaching Gare Cornavin (central station) in only 6–7 minutes geneva.info.

Nice: Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) is located just 7 km (4.3 miles) from Nice city center, making transfers quick and convenient. The fastest and most affordable option is the Tram Line 2, which departs directly from both airport terminals and reaches downtown Nice (Jean Médecin station) in about 25 minutes.

Paris: From Charles De Gaulle Airport, the RER B train reaches Saint-Michel in 40 minutes — close to Notre Dame and charming cafés. A quick metro ride takes you to the Eiffel Tower.

Venice: From Marco Polo Airport, a 20-minute bus reaches Piazzale Roma, where you’re steps away from canals, churches, and cicchetti.

Tallinn: Just 15 minutes by tram from the airport, Tallinn’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with cobbled streets, historic churches, and even saunas where travelers can unwind.

Layovers don’t have to be a waste of time. With the right planning, they can become a memorable part of your journey.

Related News: https://airguide.info/category/magazineonline/airports/, https://airguide.info/category/destinations/

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, euronews.com

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