Free stopover: Turkish Airlines and other airlines that offer it

Can you imagine turning a simple layover into a tourist adventure at no extra cost ? Well, it's not a dream; it's a growing trend in the travel world. Several airlines around the world, such as Turkish Airlines , have created free stopover programs that allow their passengers to explore a city in between for a few hours or even several days, without having to pay anything extra.

Ideal for those who love discovering new destinations or making the most of every trip, a stopover is a long layover , usually longer than 24 hours , which takes place in an intermediate city before reaching the final destination and includes benefits and amenities from the airline you are traveling with.

Unlike a quick connection , this type of stopover becomes a perfect opportunity to explore another city, relax, do some sightseeing , and even spend a night (or more!) with all-inclusive accommodations . Some airlines not only allow these stopovers but actually encourage them with free accommodation , transportation , or exclusive discounts .

Turkish Airlines: Stopover in Istanbul

If you have a long layover in Istanbul , Turkish Airlines transforms your wait into an unforgettable cultural experience . Thanks to its Stopover in Istanbul program, passengers with a connection of at least 20 hours can stay free of charge in selected hotels and experience the magic of a city that straddles two continents .

Economy class passengers receive one free night in a 4-star hotel, while business class passengers enjoy two nights in boutique or 5-star hotels. Accommodation includes breakfast and is located in areas ideal for exploring sites such as the Blue Mosque , Hagia Sophia , or the Grand Bazaar .

You only need to send your details at least 72 hours before your trip : name, booking code (PNR) , ticket number, desired dates, room type, and contact information. Once confirmed, you will receive a voucher for your stay .

Royal Jordanian: Stopover with Arab hospitality in Amman

Royal Jordanian Airlines is also participating in this offer. If you have a layover at Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) in Amman , and meet certain conditions, the airline will cover one night's accommodation , meals , and transportation between the airport and your hotel.

This benefit applies to passengers with tickets operated and marketed by Royal Jordanian , with standard (non-promotional) fares and minimum connection times : 8 hours in economy class and 6 in business class .

However, this offer isn't available for group travelers, those with discounted fares , or those booking separate tickets . But if you meet the requirements, you'll enjoy a Middle Eastern -themed layover, courtesy of one of the region's most iconic airlines .

Air China: Free night during your layover in Asia

If you travel with Air China and your itinerary includes a stopover in cities such as Beijing , Chengdu , Shanghai , Tianjin or Hangzhou , you can access a free hotel night with breakfast included and, in some cases, airport-hotel transport .

The service depends on daily availability , so it's recommended to book in advance . Additionally, conditions vary by city. For example, in Shanghai , the transfer only applies if your layover is at Pudong Airport , not Hongqiao Airport.

If you're making a stopover in China , this service can give you a comfortable night's rest and a taste of the most populated country on the planet , without affecting your budget .

Great Trips: China – October 2025 (17 days / 16 nights)

GOL Linhas Aereas: experience Brazil before reaching your destination

Brazilian airline GOL allows you to make a stopover at no extra cost in São Paulo , Rio de Janeiro , or Brasília . You can stay for up to three nights and take the opportunity to discover Brazilian culture , cuisine , and lifestyle in these vibrant cities .

To access this benefit, you must select the "Stopover" option during flight booking . You can apply the stopover on either the outbound or return leg, but you must re-board at the same airport where the layover occurred. Please note that you will need to collect your luggage and check it in again , and that boarding fees apply per leg.

If the layover is within Brazil, it must be at least 8 hours . For international flights , the minimum is 24 hours and can be extended to three nights , with at least one overnight stay . Ideal for visiting two destinations on a single ticket .

Stopover with Emirates, Hawaiian Airlines and Air New Zealand

Emirates airline is also joining the trend with its Dubai Connect program, which offers free accommodation in 4 or 5 star hotels, meals and transfers , for passengers with long layovers (between 8 and 26 hours , depending on the class and availability).

Although with more technical requirements, Hawaiian Airlines also allows pre-arranged layovers on its routes, especially if the itinerary justifies it or if you're traveling with a specific fare . The important thing is that everything is specified on the ticket at the time of purchase.

Air New Zealand , for its part, is focusing on flexibility with its "multi-city" bookings, ideal for combining stopovers in different destinations with a single itinerary. Whether you want to stop in Los Angeles before arriving in Auckland , or visit several cities in Oceania in one trip, this system allows you to create tailor-made journeys , including strategic stopovers .

Recommendation before traveling

Before buying your plane tickets or booking a travel package , check with your travel agent or the airline directly to see if your flight includes or can include a stopover . Often, these extended, free layovers aren't widely advertised, but they are available if requested in advance . You could discover an extra destination without paying more !

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