How to Make the Most of an Overnight Layover in Major Cities

If you've ever booked a flight with a long connection, you might have encountered an overnight layover. Instead of dreading the hours stuck between flights, why not turn it into a mini-adventure? With the right planning, an overnight layover can feel like a bonus city break. Here’s how to make the most of your unexpected city stop.

What is an Overnight Layover?

Before we dive into the fun stuff, let’s clarify: what is an overnight layover? 

Simply put, it’s a long layover that requires you to spend the night in a connecting city before catching your next flight. 

These layovers usually last anywhere from 8 to 24 hours, which gives you enough time to get out of the airport and explore (if you plan wisely).

Some airlines even offer extended layovers for free or at a low cost, meaning you could score a short city trip without paying extra for a stopover. 

How to Schedule a 24-Hour Layover

If you’re wondering how to schedule a 24-hour layover intentionally, here’s how to do it:

• Look for stopover programs: Some airlines - for instance, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, and Icelandair - offer free or discounted overnight layovers, and this sometimes even includes free hotel stays or city tours!
• Manually adjust your flights: If your airline doesn’t offer a program, you can often select flights with longer layovers when booking. Just make sure you won’t be stuck airside (inside security) overnight.
• Check visa requirements: Some countries require a transit visa for layovers over a certain number of hours, so research this beforehand to avoid any surprises.
• Consider accommodation options: If your layover is shorter, you might want to power through the night. If it’s closer to 24 hours, booking a hostel or budget hotel can be a great way to freshen up and store your bags. 

Now that you’ve got a layover scheduled, let’s talk about what to do once you land.

Making the Most of an Overnight Layover

1. Drop Off Your Bags

Dragging your luggage around a city is no way to enjoy a layover. 

Many airports have luggage storage services, or you can find lockers in train stations and bus terminals. Travel light so you can move around easily!

2. Plan Your Must-Sees in Advance

Time is limited, so research the top attractions near the airport. 

If you're in Paris, a quick trip to the Eiffel Tower might be worth it. 

In Tokyo? A late-night ramen stop in Shinjuku is a must. 

Make a priority list based on how much time you have.

3. Use Public Transport or Rideshares

Many major cities have excellent public transport links from the airport, and some even offer express trains to the city center (like the Heathrow Express in London or the Flytoget in Oslo). 

If public transit is limited, rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft can be a quick way to maximize your time.

4. Seek Out Local Food

An overnight layover is a perfect excuse to try a city’s signature dish. 

Whether it’s a New York slice of pizza, Bangkok street pad thai, or a kebab in Istanbul, check out a late-night eatery or food market to get a taste of local flavors.

5. Find a Great Viewpoint

If you’re short on time, a city skyline can give you an instant feel for the place. 

This can be a rooftop bar, an observation deck, or a famous bridge.

6. Join a Night Tour

Many cities have evening walking tours, pub crawls, or even ghost tours that offer a fun, time-efficient way to explore. 

Some airports even provide free transit city tours for layover passengers (like in Singapore and Doha). Check in advance to see if this is an option!

7. Stay Safe and Be Aware of Timing

Don’t forget that you do have a flight to catch! 

Keep an eye on the time and factor in transit back to the airport. Set multiple alarms, keep your boarding pass handy, and always allow a buffer for security checks.

Best Cities for an Overnight Layover

While almost any city can be fun for a short visit, some places are especially great for overnight layovers due to accessibility and nightlife options. 

Here are a few top picks:

• Singapore: The city is small and efficient, meaning you can easily explore its hawker markets, Marina Bay Sands, and even the airport’s famous Jewel waterfall in a few hours.
• Reykjavik: Icelandair’s stopover program makes it easy to soak in the Blue Lagoon or explore Reykjavik’s charming downtown.
• Istanbul: Turkish Airlines offers free city tours, but even if you go solo, you can visit the Hagia Sophia and try some baklava before heading back.
• Tokyo: With 24-hour ramen shops, karaoke bars, and efficient train connections, Tokyo is great for a layover night.
• Dubai: The metro runs late, and you can squeeze in a visit to the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall, or even a quick desert safari. 

An overnight layover doesn’t have to be a dull waiting game. You can make it into a mini-adventure. Just make sure to learn how to schedule a 24-hour layover, plan ahead, and make smart choices with your time. So next time you’re booking flights, consider embracing the layover - it might just end up being the highlight of your trip!

Starting from Skratch? Here are some links to help you get started:

• Hotel Dayrooms and Overnight Layovers | EF
• Can You Leave the Airport during a Layover | Kayak
• Stopover in Istambul | Turkish Airlines

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