Long layovers no longer mean sitting bored at the airport. To make the most of your layover, plan ahead and create a schedule so you can maximize your downtime and enjoy your stopover.
If you are flying on popular international routes—especially UK to India or flights to Delhi—how much time you have and the location of your layover will impact your options, from exploring the city to relaxing in the airport.
To maximize your layover, check visa and layover entry requirements before leaving the airport. This layover travel guide shows what to do on long layovers, entry rules, and easy itineraries for Doha, Istanbul, Abu Dhabi, and even Dubai, a good place to spend a few hours during your trip.
Inshorts
Long layovers can be used for quick city tours or rest
Doha, Istanbul, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai are layover-friendly cities
Many nationalities, including Indians, get easy transit entry
Ideal for families, students, and working professionals
Smart planning helps make your travelling cheaper and more enjoyable
Spend your layover time productively by journaling, organizing photos, or enjoying airport amenities
Make sure you have enough time to return straight to the airport desk for your next flight and avoid missing connections
Grab a meal or drink at the airport—most airports have good food service or bar options, especially in larger hubs, perfect for a morning coffee or lunch break
Use airport lounges for food, drinks, WiFi, and sometimes showers to make your layover more comfortable and help you feel refreshed before your onward flight
Doha Long Layover Things to Do (Qatar)
Doha is perfect for a 6 to 12 hour layover itinerary, thanks to smooth immigration and short travel distances. Many large airports, including Doha, have transfer hotels designed for travelers with long layovers, making it easy to rest and refresh without leaving the airport.
Doha layover visa rules & entry basics:
Indians get visa-free entry for short stays
Passport validity of at least 6 months
Confirm onward ticket
Things to do during long layovers in Doha:
Walk along Corniche for skyline views
Visit Souq Waqif for shopping and food
Stop by Museum of Islamic Art
Enjoy a short free city tour during layover (when available)
Relax at some of the best airport lounges for long layovers
Explore unique airport amenities in the terminal, such as art exhibits, themed gardens, wellness facilities, and museums
Use airport hotels, rental sleep pods, or designated nap zones in the terminal to nap or rest during your layover
Take advantage of free or low-cost shower facilities available in the terminal
Be sure to factor in customs lines and transit times when planning your layover itinerary, and return to the airport at least 2-3 hours before your onward flight to allow time for security clearance
For travelers on UK to India flights, Doha offers excellent layover options that combine comfort and cultural experiences.
Istanbul Layover Things to Do with Turkish Airlines (Turkey)
Istanbul is ideal for history lovers and first-time international travelers. The city offers a rich blend of cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant markets that can be explored even during a short layover. With convenient transit options and guided tours, visitors can experience iconic landmarks and local culture without hassle.
Istanbul transit visa & entry rules:
Indian passport holders need a valid visa or residence permit from the US, UK, Schengen, or Ireland for easy entry
Otherwise, airport stay is recommended
Whether you can leave the airport during a layover depends on visa requirements and security concerns
Short layover city tour ideas:
Visit Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia
Walk through Grand Bazaar
Enjoy Bosphorus views
Join a short layover city tour (offered on select schedules)
Turkish Airlines offers free city tours (Touristanbul) for transit passengers with long layovers
You can purchase lounge access for comfort, food, drinks, WiFi, and showers during your layover. It’s also advisable to research local customs and map out your course or itinerary using airport Wi-Fi.
This city fits well for things to do on a 24 hour layover if entry is permitted.
Abu Dhabi Layover Things to Do (UAE)
Abu Dhabi is clean, calm, and great for families. It offers a peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxing during a long layover. With family-friendly amenities and easy access to cultural attractions, it’s an ideal stopover destination for travelers of all ages.
Abu Dhabi transit visa & entry requirements:
Indians with US/UK visas often get visa on arrival
Passport and confirmed onward journey required
Abu Dhabi layover activities:
Book a hotel near the airport for a nap or breakfast—many offer hourly rates, complimentary breakfast, and free shuttle service, making them convenient for long layovers.
Take a taxi or use public transport to visit nearby attractions like Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque or Louvre Abu Dhabi; many tourist spots are less than 30 minutes from the airport.
Plan your route carefully to ensure you return in time for your connecting flight, especially if your layover is short or involves multiple segments.
Try local cuisine at the airport or enjoy unique entertainment options such as wellness facilities, play areas, or even a rooftop pool.
Stroll at Corniche Beach
Use airport lounges, ideal for travelling with babies & toddlers UK to India
Practical Stopover, Airport Lounge Access and Sightseeing Tips (For Indians)
Choose 6–12 hour layovers for stress-free exploration
Keep luggage checked through to final destination
Keep important items like electronics, documents, and medications in your carry on. If you need to store larger bags, note that luggage storage at major airports like Heathrow can cost up to £11-15 ($15+ USD) for 24 hours.
Use your phone to connect with friends or family during your layover—catch up with a call or message, or post updates about your trip to share your experience with others.
Use lounges listed under UK to India Airport Lounges for rest
Align layovers with UK–India fare calendar for savings
Note: Always keep your carry on with you and set an alarm if you plan to rest, so you don’t miss your flight.
If arriving in the morning, a good place to start your layover is with a light breakfast or coffee at the airport desk or lounge to feel refreshed before heading out.
For a few hours layover, consider taking a quick city tour or simply enjoying a break in an airport lounge.
When departing on the next leg of your journey, make sure to head straight to security with enough time to catch your connecting flight.
Many travelers hope to make the most of their layover by exploring the world beyond the airport, whether that means a short trip into the city or relaxing before heading home.
FAQs
What to do on long layovers of 6–12 hours?
You can spend time walking around the airport to stretch your legs, grab a meal or coffee at one of the many restaurants, or find a quiet corner or meditation room to relax. Many airports also offer wellness facilities like yoga rooms or spas to help you feel refreshed.
Do Indians need transit visas for layovers?
Rules vary by country—always check transit visa requirements in advance.
Is it safe to leave the airport during a layover?
Yes, if entry rules allow and time permits.
Are there free city tours during layovers?
Some airports offer them depending on flight schedules.
Can families travel outside the airport during layovers?
Yes, especially in Doha and Abu Dhabi, which are family-friendly.
