Why rush through your journey when you can turn a stopover into a mini-vacation? While a “layover” is usually measured in hours, a “stopover” can span several days and are both great ways to explore new destinations while en route to your final destination.
From the U.S., many international flights offer opportunities to visit some of the world's best layover cities, adding value and excitement to your travel experience.
In this article, we’ll highlight some of the best stopovers from the USA en route to international destinations, as well as provide tips to make the most of your layover experience and maximize your vacation time.
Why Choose a Stopover?
Some of the benefits of stop overs include:
- Discover new places: Experience an entirely different culture or city without changing your primary destination.
- Break up long flights: Stopovers can help you refresh and reduce fatigue during long-haul trips.
- Add value: Turn travel time into an adventure with extended layover flights, making the most of your ticket.
- Airline perks: Some airlines offer free or low-cost stopovers with added perks like hotel stays or tours.
The Best Stopover Destinations
Let’s dive into the top stop over flights from the U.S.
Australia via→ Tokyo
When you're flying Down Under from the United States, a popular stop en route is the Japanese capital. From historic temples to its vibrant districts, the city offers an unforgettable experience in just a short visit.
Apply for an Australia VisaTravel document needed: U.S. passport holders can enter Japan visa-free for up to 90 days. To clear border controls upon arriving in Japan, you need to present two completed documents: a Customs Declaration form and a Disembarkation Card. Both can be completed online in advance or on arrival.
Airport transit options: From Narita or Haneda Airport, efficient rail services like the Narita Express or Tokyo Monorail make the city center easily accessible.
Ideal time spent: 12–48 hours
Top things to do:
- Explore Asakusa and the iconic Senso-ji Temple
- Stroll through the bustling Shibuya Crossing
- Savor fresh sushi at Tsukiji Market
- Visit the Meiji Shrine and Harajuku
Insider tip: “I’d advise you to take public transportation such as train/monorail and to avoid bus/taxi or anything traveling on road to avoid congestion/ traffic jams. Train/subways / monorail are very reliable.” - djctiny, Reddit
Colombia via→ Mexico City
Mexico City, rich in culture and history, is the perfect layover for travelers heading to Colombia. Explore ancient ruins, discover vibrant neighborhoods, and enjoy world-class cuisine.
Apply for a Check-Mig for ColombiaTravel document needed: Fill out a Mexico FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple) prior to arrival.
Airport transit options: The Metrobus Line 4 connects Mexico City’s airport with the downtown area in about 40 minutes.
Ideal time spent: 8–24 hours.
Top things to do:
- Wander through the historic Zócalo and Metropolitan Cathedral
- Enjoy traditional Mexican cuisine at Mercado de San Juan
- Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum in Coyoacán
- Marvel at the ancient ruins of Teotihuacan if you have more time
Insider tip: “Metrobus line 4 is super convenient to the Centro Historico. You don't even exit the terminal -- just buy a card from the machine and walk right onto the bus. It's pretty posh -- you roll past crowded stops and no one even gets on because it costs more than the normal metrobus.” - seancho, Reddit.
Philippines via→ Seoul
Seoul offers a dynamic mix of historical landmarks and modern attractions, making it an exciting stopover en route to the Philippines. Perfect for shopping, food, and sightseeing.
Apply for a Philipiines eTravel PassTravel document needed: U.S. citizens can visit South Korea visa-free for up to 90 days. However, it’s mandatory to apply for a K-ETA travel authorization.
Airport transit options: The AREX Express Train takes you from Incheon Airport to Seoul Station in under an hour.
Ideal time spent: 12–48 hours.
Top things to do:
- Explore Gyeongbokgung Palace and the traditional Bukchon Hanok Village
- Enjoy shopping and street food at Gwangjang market
- Relax at a traditional jjimjilbang (Korean spa)—there’s one at the airport’s Terminal 1 if you’re short on time!
- Take in panoramic city views at Namsan Seoul Tower
Insider tip: “If the weather is awful and you have to ditch your plan a, a day in the National Museum is always well-spent. As a bonus, it's free and there are lockers on site. There are some bus tours that run through Myeongdong, they stop by a good portion of the sites and only take an hour or two.” - GypsySoulTN, Reddit
Jamaica via→ Cancún
With its stunning beaches and vibrant atmosphere, Cancún transforms a stopover into a tropical getaway. Enjoy the sun, explore cenotes, or relax by the beach.
Complete a C5 Form for JamaicaTravel document needed: As with travel to Mexico City, you’ll need to complete a Mexico FMM.
Airport transit options: Shuttle buses and taxis provide quick access to Cancún’s beaches and resorts.
Ideal time spent: 6–24 hours.
Top things to do:
- Visit the small town of Puerto Morelos, just a 20-minute taxi ride from the airport
- Relax on the white sands of Playa Delfines
- Dive into the region’s Mayan history at El Rey Ruins
- Catch a ferry to Isla Mujeres and explore the island
- Savor authentic Mexican street food at Parque de las Palapas
Insider tip: “Get on the ADO bus to Cancun Centro. It’s like $6. From there take the R1 and R2 buses anywhere you want to go. It’s so easy. Delfines is right on the route.[...] Taxis are horrible there, don’t do it. Uber works now” - Ask_me_4_a_story, Reddit
India via→ Doha (Qatar)
Doha is a city of contrasts, where futuristic skyscrapers meet traditional souks. A layover here offers a glimpse of Qatar's rich culture and luxury experiences.
Apply for an India e-VisaTravel document needed: U.S. citizens are granted a free visa on arrival in Qatar for stays up to 90 days.
Airport transit options: Doha Metro links Hamad International Airport to key city areas in minutes.
Ideal time spent: 8–24 hours.
Top things to do:
- Visit the stunning Museum of Islamic Art
- Explore Msheireb Downtown Doha and its blend of historic and modern architecture
- Stroll through Souq Waqif traditional market for local food and souvenirs
- Experience a desert safari
- Take a dhow cruise along the Corniche
Insider tip: “On Friday is the weekend so keep in mind the metro only opens at 2pm so if you plan to go in the morning use uber or a taxi to move around. museums will open at 1:30pm, restaurants and cafe will be open however they close from 11:00 am-12:30pm for prayers.” - hamadico, Reddit
New Zealand via→ Nadi (Fiji)
Nadi is a paradise for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. A perfect layover to recharge, explore lush gardens, and enjoy Fiji’s warm hospitality.
Apply for a NZeTATravel document needed: U.S. passport holders can enter Fiji visa-free for up to 4 months and are granted a free visa on arrival on entry.
Airport transit options: Taxis and shuttles make it easy to reach nearby resorts or the city center.
Ideal time spent: 10–48 hours
Top things to do:
- Relax or go horse riding at Natadola Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, just 60 minutes from the airport
- Go snorkeling or play golf on Denarau Island, just 25 minutes from the airport
- Do a mountain hike up to Abaca waterfall
- Explore the Garden of the Sleeping Giant
- Visit the market in Nadi for a taste of Fijian culture and try the traditional kava drink
Insider tip: “it was a fun 12-hours in Fiji. I ended up renting a car, and went straight from the airport to Yatule resort at Natadola beach. Bought a USD$20 day pass there, but with the pass I got a voucher of USD$20 for eating / drinking there.[...] That together with the beach and lunch and massage (extra $) was well worth the time spent driving to and from the resort. And I still had an extra hour or two going to downtown Nadi and experience the bustling streets and shops there.” - seemebreakthis, Reddit
Dominican Republic via→ Panama City
Panama City’s rich culture and iconic canal make it a fascinating stopover for flights to the Dominican Republic—one of 2024’s most popular tourist destinations.
Apply for a Dominican Republic e-TicketTravel document needed: U.S. citizens do not need a visa for stays up to 180 days in Panama.
Airport transit options: A bus, taxis, or Uber can get you from the Tocumen Airport to the city center in around 30 minutes.
Ideal time spent: 8–24 hours
Top things to do:
- Walk through Casco Viejo, the historic district
- Visit the Panama Canal and its museum, and Miraflores Locks
- Hike to Ancon Hill for city views
- Enjoy waterfront dining at Amador Causeway
- Check out the vibrant nightlife of Calle Uruguay
Insider tip: “Uber is super cheap in Panama! try to use ubers mostly. There are yellow taxis in the city, but they sometimes take advantage of tourists to charge for more and take you on longer routes/bring more passengers along.” - mariaefs, Reddit
How to Plan Your Layover or Stopover
When planning your layover or stopover, consider:
- Booking smart: Search for flights with stopovers using airline websites or apps.
- Check requirements: Confirm whether you need a visa to leave the airport.
- Time management: Plan your sightseeing around your layover duration to avoid missing flights.
- Using travel apps: Tools like Google Maps, TripIt, and airport guides can streamline your stopover.
- Storing your luggage: Many airports offer luggage storage for convenience.
Conclusion
Incorporating a stopover into your travel plans transforms a simple layover into a thrilling adventure. Instead of waiting idly at the airport, you can seize the opportunity to explore vibrant cities, experience new cultures, and create lasting memories.
Stopovers are more than just a break from travel—they’re a chance to make the most of your time, stretching the value of your ticket while reducing the stress of long-haul flights.
With airlines increasingly offering extended layover flights and easy transit options, it’s never been easier to turn your travel downtime into a mini-vacation.
Remember to plan ahead by checking visa requirements, organizing your itinerary, and ensuring you have enough time to explore without missing your next flight.
The world is full of incredible layover cities waiting to be discovered, so why not make the most of your journey? Make your next trip unforgettable by choosing a flight with stopovers.
