Best Airports for Layover in Europe
It’s no secret to many that flights with layovers are, in most cases, much cheaper than direct flights. But price is not the only advantage of such flights. A layover is also an opportunity to see a new city without overpaying. Today we will tell you about the hub airports of popular airlines, where, in our opinion, it is best to make connections. We have selected only those airports from which you can reach the city center in just 10–20 minutes. This way, you will have the opportunity to see the city even with a short layover.
Amsterdam, Schiphol Airport
Amsterdam and Schiphol Airport, KLM’s main hub, take first place in our ranking. 15 minutes by train and you are in the very center of the city at the Central Station.
Trains depart from the airport’s underground level. Tickets can be purchased at self-service terminals.
Just a 10-minute walk along Damrak street (Damrak) and you are at the famous Dam Square, walk another 10 minutes straight and you are at the flower market. At the exit of the station, visit the tourist office and buy a map, it will be easier for you to navigate the city.
Zurich Airport
Swiss International Air Lines offers excellent connections in Zurich. You can reach the Central Station from the airport by train in just 10 minutes.
Zurich is considered one of the most expensive cities in the world, so consider purchasing a ZÜRICHCARD tourist card. It grants free public transport throughout the city (including train travel to and from the airport) and free entry to many museums. The card can be purchased at the airport. We recommend strolling along the embankment to see the city’s main attractions: Fraumünster Church with Marc Chagall’s stained glass windows, St. Peter’s Church with Europe’s largest clock face, the Grossmünster (cathedral), and others.
Geneva Airport
Swiss International Air Lines also operates flights with layovers in Geneva. The airport is only 5 km from the city. You can reach the center by train in less than 10 minutes.
Upon arriving at the station, head towards the embankment, from there you’ll get a beautiful view of Lake Geneva and the fountain. The main attractions are concentrated in the old part of the city, on the opposite bank. That’s where you’ll find the Reformation Wall, St. Pierre Cathedral, the famous Flower Clock, and most museums. Also, Rue du Rhône, where most prestigious watch shops are located. Not far from the station is the Manor department store, on the top floor of which there is a decent self-service cafe with quite reasonable prices. If you want to see as much as possible during your layover, the best option is to book a tour.
