There’s no better feeling than finding cheap flights to a place you’ve always dreamed of visiting. Sadly, there’s often a catch – and that tends to be a lengthy layover. But layovers don’t have to mean hours circulating an airport terminal in search of a reasonably-priced coffee; they can be another worthwhile stop on your trip.
If you’re tempted to join the layover club, then you’re in luck, as luggage storage company Stasher has named the top ten best cities to stay between flights. It based its comprehensive study on five weight factors: attraction density, quick bites establishments, safety score, traffic congestion, and airport proximity.
Europe takes the crown for ideal layovers, snagging the top three spots on the list. At number one and achieving a near-perfect score of 99.23 is Barcelona. There are countless activities in the Spanish city, from sunny beaches to the extraordinary Picasso Museum, all at a very commutable 12.5km (7.7 miles) distance from the airport.
Next up: Amsterdam. Boasting a winning formula of idyllic canals, 24-hour warehouse raves and notorious coffeeshop culture, it’s the ideal city to let loose for a night or two. Failing that, in third place is Paris, the city of love and the never-disappointing Montmartre quarter to live out all your bohemian fantasies.
‘Europe has achieved a balance between cultural richness and accessibility that modern travellers value. With four cities in the global top ten, the region has created ideal conditions for memorable layover experiences,’ Jacob Wedderburn-Day, travel expert and CEO of Stasher, adds.
If Europe isn’t on the cards, an Asian city is a solid alternative – especially if safety is a priority. Singapore, Tokyo, and Fukuoka all share the top safety ratings, so you can relax and enjoy your layover without a worry.
Several northern American cities also make the cut. Notable mentions include Vancouver, with its stunning natural scenery; Boston, rich in history and charm; and Miami, perfect for those craving sun, sand, and vibrant nightlife between flights.
Whether you’re chasing culture, cuisine, or just a comfy bed between flights, these cities prove that layovers don’t have to be a drag. With top spots across Europe, Asia, and North America, there’s plenty of inspiration to turn a short stop into a mini adventure.
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