We know the need for a vacation can sometimes have you desperately try to manage costs, especially when it comes to budgeting for a long international flight. One way to save on these long trips abroad is to look for a flight with layovers. But, what if your quest to save a few dollars lands you with a 6-hour (or longer) stop en route to your final destination? No problem. If you plan right, you’ll be able to make use of that time to sate your wanderlust and catch at least a few of the recommended sites and experiences. So read on to see how to plan your next trip to one of these best cities for a long layover!
Havana
If you’re going down to explore South America, then look at a long(ish) stop in timeless Havana. You can start off with a quick exploration of one of the most beautiful buildings the city has to offer, the Gran Teatro de la Habana Alicia Alonso, named after Cuba’s most renowned prima ballerina. Take in the stunning sculptures and myriad of marble and bronze works, then hop into the back of an old-school lime green convertible (it’s a taxi!) and keep the history lesson going with a trip to the Museum of the Revolution. Cap off the evening with a seaside stroll down El Malecón esplanade at sunset. Let your feet and ears guide you towards the sound of salsa music, and stumble into a bar for a mojito or Cuba Libre.
Amsterdam
Any venture into Europe or further can prove to be a long haul, but Amsterdam can come to the rescue. Plus, Venice isn’t the only place with gondola rides, you know? One of our favorites on the list of best cities for long layovers is a stay amidst this charming, tulip-covered town that demands a romantic ride through its winding canals. For an extra dose of romance, save the boat ride for dusk, and in the meantime, pick up a 24-hour OV-chip card; this handy little card will grant you unlimited access to the city’s buses and trams for the amount of time specified. Hop aboard a bus to seek out Rembrandt masterpieces at Rijksmuseum, or Van Gogh classics at the Van Gogh Museum. After wrapping up your afternoon of art, wander about Dam Square and pay a visit to the glorious Flower Market. Munch on fresh stroopwafel from a vendor or local bakery while you walk.
Seattle
Heading out past the West Coast towards the Pacific? Make sure your layover’s in the beautiful city of Seattle. Start your brief stay in the birthplace of Starbucks off right by getting caffeinated with a cup of joe from one of the city’s many independent coffee shops. The line to tour the original Starbucks facility is usually a long wait and not exactly conducive to a tight schedule; skip the tour itself and wander about Pike Place Market, where you’ll still be able to scout out the original Starbucks sign and sample some excel. Next, hit up Olympic Sculpture Park, then mosey your way over to the Space Needle for a 360-degree bird’s eye view of Seattle’s glittering city lights. If time permits, hit up Chinatown for scrumptious breakfast and lunch options before your flight.
Montreal
If you’re flying out from one of the large Canadian cities in the west, and you’re looking for the close-by (and one of the best) city for a layover trip, then make sure to plan a quick trip in Montreal (even if you’ve been there before). First thing’s first: get your hands on a bowl of poutine. La Banquise, a favorite in town for this signature dish of fries topped with gravy and cheese curds, is open 24 hours a day, so you can get your fix no matter what time your flight is scheduled to land. Once you’re fueled up, spend the day gawking at the medieval architecture of the Notre-Dame Basilica, then wander the cobbled paths of Old Montreal for souvenirs. Maison Publique (which features a menu curated by Montreal chef Derek Dammann and celebrity chef Jamie Oliver) will have your brunch-time cravings covered.
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Lyon
North Africa and Eastern Europe on your bucket list? Make sure to stop over and say bonjour to the birthplace of cinema and a world-renowned hot spot for gastronomic innovation — Lyon, France. Architecture lovers can’t miss the gawk-worthy buildings of the old-town district, Vieux Lyon. Historical gems like the Fourviere Basilica and the Ancient Theatre of Fourvière will make architecture aficionados out of anyone, and the best part? They’re all located just steps away from one another. Energize at a family-owned bistro, or pop into the indoor market Les Halles Paul Bocuse for everything from produce to delis and macaroon shops. Make a wish in the Place des Terreaux before you leave, and grab a bottle of regional red wine or a jar of Herbes de Provence to remember your trip.
Copenhagen
If Scandinavia is your final destination then Copenhagen is a must-stop. The good news? Copenhagen is a totally walkable city. The bad news? It’s pretty prone to downpours, so prepare an umbrella and a pair of waterproof shoes and let’s take to those glistening streets! Begin with a stroll down the picture-perfect Nyhavn, the seaside promenade stacked with rows of colorful houses that look like they’re straight from a postcard. Food and shopping in this location tend to be a bit overpriced, so snap a few photos and then hop the S-train to Copenhagen’s meatpacking district; here, you can skip the tourist traps and dine at local favorites like Mother and Kødbyens Fiskebar. The Tivoli Gardens are a magical must-see, as is the romantically fantastical Rosenborg Castle. If your stay proves too rainy for outdoor exploration, head indoors to a popular museum such as Glyptotek or the Danish National Museum.
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