Air travel today is not just about getting from point A to point B. For many travelers, it’s about seeing more of the world for the same price. That’s why airlines with free stopover programs have become one of the smartest travel strategies. Stopovers turn long flights into mini breaks in fascinating cities. You can stretch your journey and experience a bonus destination without paying extra airfare.
In this article, we explain the top 10 airlines with free stopover programs. We cover what each program offers, how it works, and why it matters to international travelers.
1. TAP Air Portugal – Best for Extended Explorations
Free stopovers in Lisbon and Porto
TAP Air Portugal stands out among airlines with free stopover programs because of its flexibility. Passengers flying through Lisbon or Porto can add up to 10 days in either city at no extra airfare cost.
What the program offers
- Up to 10 days stopover in Lisbon or Porto.
- No added fare for adding the stopover.
- Discounts on hotels, restaurants, tours, and attractions.
- A 25% discount on airfare to a second destination within Portugal after your stopover.
Also read: Best Airlines in the UK: A Clear Guide for 2026
Why it matters
Lisbon and Porto each offer rich history, vibrant culture, and food scenes worth exploring. A stopover of up to ten days can transform a long-haul flight into a real European holiday.
2. Icelandair – Pioneer of Free Stopovers
See Reykjavik for up to seven days
Icelandair was one of the first airlines to popularize stopover travel. Passengers flying to or from North America and Europe through Reykjavik can stay there for up to seven days without extra airfare charges.
Program highlights
- Up to 7 days free stopover in Reykjavik.
- No extra ticket cost.
- Ideal for nature lovers, from northern lights to waterfalls.
Note
While Icelandair’s stopover does not include free hotel stays, the chance to visit Iceland’s dramatic landscapes at no flight cost is a major perk for many travelers.
Also read: Top 7 First Class Airlines in the World
3. Turkish Airlines – Stopovers in Istanbul
Free or discounted hotel stays in a transcontinental city
Turkish Airlines’ stopover program is one of the most generous of all airlines with free stopover programs. It’s especially beneficial for long layovers in Istanbul.
Program details
- Free hotel night(s) for qualifying layovers of 20+ hours.
- Economy passengers often get one free night in a four-star hotel.
- Business class travelers may receive two or more nights in a five-star hotel.
- Optional city tours and sightseeing suggestions.
Why it’s useful
Istanbul is a city where East meets West, and the stopover gives passengers time to explore landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar without extra airfare.
4. Etihad Airways – Abu Dhabi Stopover
Free stopovers with hotel offers and local perks
Etihad Airways invites travelers to enjoy Abu Dhabi during long layovers with its Stopover on Us program.
What it includes
- Complimentary stopovers for qualifying flights.
- Up to two free hotel nights at partner hotels (depending on cabin and availability).
- Hotel categories often include four- and five-star options.
Also read: 10 Best Business Class Airlines in the World
Travel tip
Passengers should check eligibility rules carefully when booking because hotel availability is limited and sometimes must be confirmed before travel.
5. Qatar Airways – Doha Discoveries
Affordable stopovers in the Gulf region
Qatar Airways’ stopover program in Doha is one of the most talked-about among airlines with free stopover programs. While not completely free, it’s extremely low-cost.
Key features
- Stopovers available for up to four days.
- Hotel rooms can be as low as USD 14/night at select properties.
- Free city tours for passengers with layovers over 12 hours.
Why it’s notable
At rates far below typical hotel prices in major cities, this stopover program lets passengers explore Doha’s museums, markets, and desert landscapes with minimal cost.
6. Japan Airlines – Award Travel Stopovers
Multiple free stopovers with miles
Japan Airlines offers one of the most flexible stopover arrangements among major carriers, particularly for travelers using award miles.
Program structure
- Up to three complimentary stopovers on award flights with Japan Airlines partners.
- Up to seven free stopovers on Oneworld award itineraries.
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How it works
This program is part of the Japan Airlines Mileage Bank (JMB) and applies when using miles to book awards with Japan Airlines and partner carriers.
Traveler benefit
Rather than booking multiple separate flights, you can see more cities within one mileage budget.
7. Alaska Airlines – One Stopover on Reward Flights
Free stopovers on one-way and round trip award travel
Alaska Airlines is another carrier with a free stopover program tied to points travel.
Program details
- One complimentary stopover on one-way award tickets.
- Up to two stopovers on round trip awards.
Why travelers like it
This benefit allows passengers to include extra destinations without more miles, making every award ticket more valuable.
8. ANA – Stopovers on Reward Flights
Free stopover when using miles
All Nippon Airways (ANA) lets travelers add stopovers to their award bookings.
What the program offers
- Complimentary stopover on ANA or partner airline reward flights.
- Available whether flying ANA or partner carriers.
Booking note
Stopovers must be part of the reward itinerary, and typically require a round-trip or multi-segment booking to qualify.
Also read: Best Airlines in the World 2026
9. Air France / KLM – Stopovers in Paris and Amsterdam
Free stopovers with award tickets
When booking through the Flying Blue loyalty program, Air France and KLM allow complimentary stopovers in their hubs.
Program highlights
- Stopover in Paris (Air France) or Amsterdam (KLM) on eligible itineraries.
- No added miles for the stopover.
Traveler tip
These stopovers usually require contacting Flying Blue customer service or booking through a specialized process rather than online.
10. Singapore Airlines – Holiday Before the Holiday
Discounts and perks during stopovers
Singapore Airlines’ newer stopover programme offers bonus experiences, especially for premium passengers.
Stopover benefits
- Stopovers in Singapore that can last up to 30 days.
- Complimentary benefits and exclusive promotions for Business and First Class passengers.
- Activities and transport benefits on select layovers.
Why it’s useful
This program is tailored for longer international itineraries where breaking up the flight with an extended Singapore stay adds value.
How Stopovers Differ from Layovers
Before we wrap up, it’s useful to clarify the difference between stopovers and layovers:
- Layover: A short break between flights (usually under 24 hours) where you’re mainly waiting to continue your journey.
- Stopover: A longer planned break (over 24 hours) that lets you leave the airport and explore the city before continuing your trip.
Stopovers can turn travel into two trips for the price of one, and that’s why these airlines with free stopover programs are worth knowing.
Conclusion
Choosing one of the airlines with free stopover programs can transform long-haul travel into memorable multi-city journeys. Whether it’s a few days in Lisbon with TAP Air Portugal or a bonus stop in Reykjavik with Icelandair, these programs offer real travel value without added airfare.
Before booking, always check each airline’s specific conditions and eligibility rules. Some programs are tied to award travel, others offer free hotel nights, and some require careful planning to access benefits.
But when used well, stopovers can help you see more of the world for the same flight ticket, and that’s one of the smartest travel hacks in modern aviation.
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