The amazing Blue Lagoon in Iceland, the imposing Great Wall of China, the breathtaking fjords of Finland… airlines are making it easier (and cheaper) than ever to see these amazing places for free by offering a free stopover in the most popular cities!
Here are six cities you can visit for free on a stopover, so you can make the most out of your next adventure.
REYKJAVIK, ICELAND
Airline: Icelandair
Iceland’s capital city is the perfect base for discovering the splendors of the country. Spend the day visiting waterfalls, whale watching, or visiting one of the city’s many museums, then take advantage of the vibrant nightlife in the evening.
How it works: Add a free stopover of up to 7 days either to or from your destination. You can also take advantage of their (also free) “Stopover Buddy” program, which pairs you with local Icelanders to see the sights.
HELSINKI, FINLAND
Airline: Finnair
The city of Helsinki is just as quirky as its name is. Explore the vibrant metropolis, then take day-trips to the breathtaking fjords that Finland is famous for.
How it works: Stay in Helsinki for up to 5 days with this program. You can also find tours with pick-up and return directly to the airport, so you can touch down in the airport and hop right into the discovery.
BEIJING, CHINA
Airline: Air China
Massive modern buildings, ancient sites, and a history stretching back 3 millennia await you in China’s capital city. If the Great Wall of China has been on your bucket list, be sure to take advantage of this on your next adventure!
How it works: Stay up to 72 hours (3 days), visa free. This stopover offer is not only for Beijing, but for 18 Chinese cities total, including Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu.
HONOLULU, HAWAII
Airline: Hawaiian Airlines
Will you go chasing waterfalls or snorkeling at the Hanauma Bay? The postcard-worthy capital of Hawaii is the perfect destination for a vacation on your way home from your first vacation.
How it works: Enjoy a free stopover in Honolulu when traveling to/from North America, Asia, and the South Pacific. This stopover program has no limit on the number of days, however guests traveling domestically will have to pay an additional $60 for the stopover.
LISBON, PORTUGAL
Airline: TAP
Enjoy coastal beauty and old-world charm in Portugal’s capital city. See the city from atop one of its many hills, explore Moorish castles, and eat pastel de nata – and lots of them!
How it works: See the city on a stopover when flying on long flights between Africa, the U.S., and Europe. Stay for up to 3 days!
TOKYO, JAPAN
Airline: Japan Airlines
Traditional charm meets ultra-modern design in Japan’s colorful capital. Start days off with breakfast sushi at a world-famous fish market, pack a picnic and go to one of the breathtaking parks and gardens, take a photo in one of the many anime photo booths, and along the way become absorbed in Japan’s one-of-a-kind culture.
How it works: Customers can choose a free stopover in Tokyo on flights originating from North America. Japan Airlines offers stopovers in Osaka and Nagoya as well.
