airport tour guide

Guided Tours

Are you excited about going to the airport for a flight? Would you like to take a look at what goes on behind the scenes at an international airport?

If so, take advantage of Tampa International Airport’s Guided Tour. You will follow the path of arriving and departing passengers in the Main Terminal as you learn about:

• Aviation-related careers
• History of TPA
• Structure and design of TPA
• Public Art Program
• Airport security enhancements
• Tampa Airport Marriott

During this walking tour, your experienced, professional guide will take you to visit all three levels of the Main Terminal. You will also learn about the Airside/Landside concept that makes Tampa International Airport one of “America’s Favorite Airports.”

Restrictions on group size or minimum age may apply.

Request to include career information, and you’ll learn about the many different career possibilities in the aviation industry.

Tour Details

Airport tours are tailored to meet the special needs (guests with learning disabilities or those who require wheelchair assistance, for example), specific interests (such as aviation-related careers and women in aviation) or academic level of any group. All groups are welcome.

Tours are offered daily based on availability. The maximum number of participants we can accommodate in each group is 40 (with the exception of Airfield Tours). The minimum touring age is 6 years old and chaperones are required for all student groups.

Chaperone Requirements

• 1st - 3rd grade - 1 per 5 students
• 4th - 6th grade - 1 per 10 students
• 7th - 12th grade - 1 per 15 students

The tour is free of charge, and there is free parking for commercial vehicles such as school buses.

Please feel free to contact Guest Services if you are interested in booking a guided tour or have questions at (813) 870-8759 or email [email protected]

Groups with younger children or those who want to visit the airport and move at their own pace may choose to take a self-guided tour .

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How to Navigate the Airport

Meghan Coyle started as a web producer and writer at NerdWallet in 2018. She covers travel rewards, including industry news, airline and hotel loyalty programs, and how to travel on points. She is based in Los Angeles.

Megan Lee joined the travel rewards team at NerdWallet with over 12 years of SEO, writing and content development experience, primarily in international education and nonprofit work. She has been published in U.S. News & World Report, USA Today and elsewhere, and has spoken at conferences like that of NAFSA: Association of International Educators. Megan has built and directed remote content teams and editorial strategies for websites like GoAbroad and Go Overseas. When not traveling, Megan adventures around her Midwest home base where she likes to attend theme parties, ride her bike and cook Asian food.

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

If you don’t fly often or you're a first-time flyer, going to the airport can already feel like you’re entering a new universe of moving walkways, long hallways and gates to other cities. Some airports even have their own mini train or tram system to help customers get between terminals, so you might have to figure out which line to take and which direction.

It may look and sound overwhelming, but learning what to do at the airport can be easy.

The good news is that most airports have a similar basic design, and the steps that you need to follow are essentially the same, no matter which airport is closest to your home. You won’t even need a map to master the airport process. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you learn how to navigate the airport as we move headlong into busy travel seasons.

» Learn more: The best airline credit cards right now

How to find your way around an airport

1. arrive in the right spot — and at the right time.

Follow the signs at your respective airport to make sure you find the correct terminal building for your flight. For instance, at Denver International Airport, Terminal East hosts airlines like Alaska, Delta, Frontier, Southwest and Spirit, whereas Terminal West hosts American, JetBlue, United, WestJet and others. Enter the airport at your terminal to simplify the next steps of the process.

Research the correct terminal in advance of your departure. This will help you feel less overwhelmed by any of the directional signage lining your route to the airport itself.

Most airlines recommend that you arrive at the airport at least two hours before departure for domestic flights and three hours for international flights. You’ll hear all sorts of advice about whether you need to be there that early, but it’s a good general rule.

There are several reasons why you might need extra time:

Are you checking a bag? If so, you might have to spend more time checking in and getting someone to weigh your bag, instead of going straight to the security checkpoint with your boarding pass. Check-in line wait times can vary greatly, so you'll want to build in some time for this if checking a bag.

Are you parking at the airport? If so, give yourself an extra 20 minutes on top of what time you already planned to be there. Sometimes, airport parking lot shuttles can take a long time to make their rounds or get filled to capacity with families and their luggage. If you budget extra time, waiting for the next shuttle won’t derail your travel plans.

Do you have TSA Precheck or Global Entry ? These security pre-clearances can make it faster to get through security at the airport. If you don’t have one of these, keep in mind that you might have to wait in line longer, and budget ahead of time to accommodate the potentially long queues.

2. Check in

Once you enter the airport, the first thing you should do is check in (if you haven’t done so already online).

Many airlines allow you to check in online 24 hours before your flight. If you’re not checking a bag, this is a great option because it allows you to download a mobile boarding pass to your phone to bypass check-in and head for security (Step 3).

If you’d like a paper boarding pass or if you’re checking a bag, you’ll have to officially check in. Some airlines will offer self check-in kiosks, where you’ll enter some information about your flight reservation to print boarding passes, check bags and select seats. From there, you’ll need to find your way to the luggage drop line to get your checked bag weighed.

For airports without self check-in machines, the airline’s customer service agents at the check-in counter will handle the entire process.

» Learn more: Airline credit cards that offer free checked bags

3. Go through the security checkpoint

Once you’ve checked your luggage and gotten your boarding pass, you should go to the TSA checkpoint leading to the proper concourse for your flight. Concourses are usually marked by letter (e.g., Concourse A, B, C) and align with your gate designation (so Gate B12 would be in Concourse B).

Sometimes, the signage will say things like “To All Gates” to help lead you away from the check-in area. There may also be separate security checkpoints for different gates, so if there are directions based on your gate number, default to those instructions.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by where to go, generally follow the crowd of people who just checked in.

Once you see the area with different lines, TSA personnel in blue shirts, stacks of bins, X-ray machines and metal detectors, you’ve made it to the right place. Get in the proper line based on whether you have TSA Precheck (it will be noted on your boarding pass) or not.

Understand what items you can and cannot bring through airport security. Many prohibited items should be fairly obvious; you can't bring weapons, flammables or other sharp objects in your carry-on. But there are some surprising items you cannot bring through airport security, too. A common one that gets people is that liquids are limited to travel-sized containers that are 3.4 ounces. You can't bring through beverages, but it also means you can't bring through foods like peanut butter jars or yogurt containers.

» Learn more: TSA carry-on restrictions you need to know

It also means that — unless they're in a small package — you can't bring through many toothpastes, lotions and shampoos. If you must travel with your own toiletries, consider packing products like the shampoo and conditioner bars that become activated with water. They aren't actually a liquid — so you can still take them in your carry-on through security.

» Learn more: Can you bring food through TSA?

The general security checkpoint process usually goes something like this:

A TSA agent will check your boarding pass and ID. Have both items out before you walk up to their podium to save time. Then, stow these items safely before you go through the security checkpoint — as you don't want them to fall through the cracks or get forgotten.

Walk up to the baggage screening line and when it’s your turn, grab however many plastic bins you think are necessary. A good rule of thumb is one for your clothing and liquids, one for electronics and one for your personal item, if needed.

Place your bins on the belt. Take off your shoes and jacket and empty your pockets; put these items in one of your bins. Take your toiletries out of your carry-on and put them in a bin (hopefully any liquids are TSA-compliant). Note that you can stack these on top of other items if needed.

Take out your laptop, iPad and other large electronic devices and put them in the second bin. These cannot be stacked with other items.

Add your carry-on luggage or personal item to the belt, if applicable.

Push your bins and your carry-on luggage through the scanner and then join the line to go through the X-ray machine.

Once you’re out of the machine, grab all of your bins and luggage. To avoid crowding and holding up the line, take your luggage and bins to the sitting area away from the scanner so you can take your time putting your bags back together. Make sure you didn’t forget anything — especially that boarding pass and ID you were supposed to put away or your laptop that had to be in its own bin.

» Learn more: 7 must-know tips for first-time flyers

Depending on the airline you fly with as well as how long you’re traveling for, you might wonder whether you’re better off traveling with a checked bag rather than a carry-on . This can be especially relevant if you’ve got some liquids with you that exceed the TSA carry-on liquid limits.

WANT TSA PRECHECK FOR FREE?

A number of popular travel credit cards reimburse you for the application fee for trusted traveler programs like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry. Among them:

on Bank of America's website

on Chase's website

$0 intro for the first year, then $95 .

Statement credit of up to $100 as reimbursement when you charge the application fee for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry to the card. Available once every 4 years.

Statement credit of up to $100 as reimbursement when you charge the application fee for TSA PreCheck, Global Entry or NEXUS to the card. Available once every 4 years.

If your credit card offers reimbursement for the application fee for programs like TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, you must pay the fee with the card. You cannot submit a claim for reimbursement if you paid with some other method. Reimbursement will usually appear as a statement credit in your account within two months.

Cards typically offer reimbursement of only one fee once every four to five years. Check the terms and conditions of your card for the specific rules that apply. Note also that these cards only reimburse the application fee for a trusted traveler program. They don't automatically enroll you in the program or guarantee that you'll be accepted by the program. You still have to apply and go through the required screening, which in the case of TSA PreCheck and Global Entry includes an in-person appointment.

Aeroplan® Credit Card .

Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card .

Chase Sapphire Reserve® .

Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® .

Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card .

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card .

IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card .

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card .

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card .

The Platinum Card® from American Express .

Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card .

United Club℠ Infinite Card .

United℠ Explorer Card .

United Quest℠ Card .

U.S. Bank Altitude™ Reserve Visa Infinite® Card .

Terms apply.

» SEE the best credit cards that pay for TSA PreCheck and Global Entry

4. Find your gate

Once you’ve been cleared through security, follow the signs to your gate. It should be listed on your boarding pass, but the most up-to-date information can be found on departure monitors throughout the airport.

Once you confirm the gate for your flight, look for signs that direct travelers toward different parts of the airport. You might have to take a quick tram to another terminal, but this should be clearly marked for travelers. In general, you will want to follow signs with numbers and arrows — somewhat like when you head to a hotel room.

If you have any questions, try to find an information kiosk or a fellow traveler to help point you in the right direction.

5. Wait at the gate

Now, depending on how much time you have before the boarding time listed on your boarding pass (usually 30 minutes to an hour before your departure time), you may have some time to kill.

You’ll usually want to stay nearby so you can quickly get back to the gate if you need to. Make sure you can hear any pertinent updates about your specific flight, such as delays.

This is the time you can use to grab food or shop at the establishments inside the concourse. It’s notoriously expensive to eat at the airport, but it’s even more expensive to purchase food onboard. Plus, your options will be much more limited, so it’s a good idea to grab a bite before you get on the plane if you’ll need a snack later on.

Some travelers also use this time to go to the bathroom or refill their water bottle. Unless you decide to buy Wi-Fi onboard, your time at your gate might be your last chance to charge your electronics and download movies, music or podcasts before the flight. Otherwise, you’ll be stuck with whatever your airline is offering for in-flight entertainment .

An airline lounge might be a good place to stop if you have a lot of time before your flight. If you’re flying first or business class or your credit card comes with lounge access , you might be able to wait for boarding time from the comfort of a lounge, which usually offers more spacious seating and unlimited food while you’re there.

UNLOCK AIRPORT LOUNGES WITH THE RIGHT CARD

Major U.S. airlines operate airport lounges for high-priority customers, as do some credit card issuers, most notably American Express. A number of airports also have independently operated lounges that are accessible through networks like Priority Pass. Several credit cards provide airport lounge access, although no single card gets you into every lounge. Among cards with lounge access:

on American Express' website

on Citibank's application

Access to more than 1,300 lounges worldwide, including:

• The issuer's own Centurion Lounges and International American Express lounges.

• Delta Sky Clubs , when flying Delta.

• Priority Pass Select lounges (enrollment required).

• Lounges in the Plaza Premium , Escape and Airspace networks.

Complimentary Admirals Club membership, plus access to partner lounges with which American Airlines has a reciprocal agreement.

Access to United Club locations and participating Star Alliance affiliated lounges worldwide.

For occasional United travelers, a different card, the United℠ Explorer Card , gives you two one-time passes to the United Club each year. That card has an annual fee of $0 intro for the first year, then $95 . Read our review of that card .

• Access to Delta Sky Club when traveling with Delta, plus two one-time passes each year for guests. (Note that limits on lounge visits are scheduled to take effect in 2025. Read more about that here .)

• Access to American Express Centurion Lounges when flying Delta.

• Priority Pass Select membership, with access to over 1,000 airport lounges internationally and meal credits at select airport restaurants and bars.

• Access to Chase's own Sapphire Lounges , though there are currently only a couple of locations.

To view rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express , see this page . To view rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card , see this page .

6. Board the airplane

The last step is to get on board. Wait for your boarding group to be called, which should be listed on your ticket. Most airlines board by a numbered boarding group, and people with elite status and those flying first class usually board in the earlier groups.

You won’t be able to board with an earlier group than the one listed on your ticket unless you need special accommodations, like if you’re flying with small children. In those cases, they’ll usually announce when they’ll allow people who need extra help or time to board. If you miss your boarding group, you will still be able to board with later groups.

If you’re flying on Southwest, be aware that it has a unique boarding system where people must line up near the poles in the boarding area by numerical order when their alphabetical group is called. Learn more about boarding groups on Southwest here .

Once you hear your group, get in the correct boarding lane. Usually there’s a general boarding lane and another lane for people in priority boarding groups or those with elite status. The gate agent will scan your boarding pass and you can proceed down the jet bridge.

Normally, you won’t have to show your boarding pass again on the plane, but make sure you know your seat number before you put it away and keep it accessible in case needed. Then find your seat and stow your luggage as quickly as you can, so the plane can take off on time.

7. Retrieve your luggage

Once your plane arrives at your destination, you’ll want to follow the signs to baggage claim to pick up your checked bags. Each flight is assigned a luggage carousel, so check the monitors near baggage claim to find out which one your bag will arrive on. The time you spend waiting for your luggage to arrive can vary, sometimes up to 30 minutes or more. This is usually a good time to go to the bathroom or grab a snack.

Alaska Airlines has a 20-minute baggage guarantee, so if your bags take more than 20 minutes to show up on the baggage carousel, you can report it to the Alaska baggage office and get a $25 discount code or 2,500 Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan bonus miles for use on a future Alaska Airlines flight.

If you don’t see your bags after all the luggage from the flight has been unloaded, find the airline’s baggage office at the airport to report your missing items. They should be able to help you find them. If your luggage is missing, document your loss and collect the necessary paperwork such that you can file a claim with your travel insurance provider or credit card issuer (assuming it includes insurance coverage ).

8. Exit the airport and enjoy your trip

This can be the trickiest part. Each airport has different rules about where to pick up rideshare services. You might need to figure out which level of the airport is designated for ground transportation — meaning buses, shuttles and cars to catch a ride out of the airport. Sometimes, you might be able to take the metro right from the airport to the heart of the city. Follow the signs and ask for help. Your trip is just getting started.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2023 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee:   Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards:  Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card  

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

1x Earn 1 Loyalty Point for every 1 eligible AAdvantage® mile earned from purchases.

100,000 For a limited time, earn 100,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $10,000 within the first 3 months of account opening.

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

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The Airports That Offer Guided Tours

For aviation geeks, going to an airport is an adventure. You get to try out a trick or two that you learned for going through security, you may have lounge access, and then you get to ride in a PLANE! Possibly in business or first class.

Whether you’re a fan of airports or not, there are several airports around the world that try to make things interesting by offering tours of their facilities. Some are self-guided, but a handful of them have guides to take you on a tour of their respective airport and support facilities. Here are some of them:

Guided tours of Innsbruck Airport

Language: Doesn’t say Cost: Yes. € 35.00 per group Duration: Roughly 1 hour Wheelchair accessible: Doesn’t say Description:

Our airport tours can be summarised in one simple sentence: “A day in the life of an airport passenger”. The tour starts in the departure hall and then continues through security control and onto the apron before returning to the arrivals hall and the public area. Your tour guide will share lots of exciting facts and information about Innsbruck Airport, provide a brief overview of its history and tell you all about different airport procedures, such as check-in, baggage loading, aircraft fuelling and much more. They will also describe and explain the work carried out by the aircraft handling team and the equipment that is used.

Brač Airport Guided Tour

Take a look at the background of the Brač Airport to get a true experience the airport. You do not have to book an airline ticket to get to know it better. The organized airport tour will take you directly to the centre of all aerodrome activities. Feel the pulse of the airport while watching live airplane operations.

Have you ever wondered how current activities of accepting and dispatching people and aircraft at the airport? How and where to apply for a flight? What exactly happens to your baggage after you check-in for a flight? How are aircrafts served between flights? How many different types of vehicles and equipment are used? We have answer for these and many other questions.

Rijeka Airport Guided Tour

Language: Doesn’t say Cost: Yes. 1,50 euro per person Duration: Roughly 1 hour Wheelchair accessible: Doesn’t say Description:

Rijeka Airport team will show you all you wanted to know about interior function of an airport through its guided tours. We will take you to the center of all airport activities and introduce you to all airport operations.

Guided tours are primarily intended for school age children, as well as other interest groups.

Berlin: English Guided Tour of Tempelhof Airport

Language: English Cost: Yes. Eur 17.50 (Eur 12.00 for age 6-14, pupils, students, apprentices, social benefit receivers (Bürgergeld), unemployed recipients (ALG-I), severely disabled persons (degree of disability at least 50%). Holder of the Berlin WelcomeCard get a 25% discount on the ticket price. Duration: 2 hours Wheelchair accessible: No Description:

Tempelhof Airport is the largest architectural monument in Europe. The former airport impresses with its monumental architecture and reflects Berlin´s eventful history. Built between 1936 and 1941, the building stands for the self-display of the National Socialists. In 1948/49, however, the airport also became a symbol of freedom through the Berlin Airlift.

The guided tours of the airport building take an in-depth look at the historical and architectural background. Expert guides lead you to the most interesting places of the imposing building, from the former check-in hall to the areas used by the US Americans and the transit gangways with a view of today´s popular Tempelhofer Feld.

Munich: Airport live tour

Language: German Cost: Yes. Eur 12.00 (Eur 7.00 for age 5-18 & 65+, students & trainees, disabled people Duration: 50 minutes Wheelchair accessible: No Description:

The Airport Live Tour puts you right in the thick of things of the airport world.

Come along, take an exciting look behind the scenes, marvel at huge aircraft and the hustle and bustle on the apron at close quarters: Take-offs, landings, parked aircraft from all over the world and the many small and large processes that take place all around during handling.

The current situation has also changed what happens at the airport. Find out exciting background information, the changes and what new things there are to keep in mind.

With our experienced tour guides you will experience a unique excursion.

Stuttgart Airport Tours

Language: English (upon request) Cost: Yes. €12 per person for adults, €6 for children age 5 – 17 Duration: 2 hours Wheelchair accessible: Doesn’t say Description:

Fly STR Tour

This tour puts a spotlight on passengers and airport traffic. If you have always wanted to look behind the scenes at Stuttgart Airport and observe how it operates, this tour is for you. The tour includes the following highlights, among others:

• Short informational film about Stuttgart Airport
• Tour around the apron and aircraft handling
• Information about take-offs and landings
• Visit of the airport fire brigade
• Insides baggage handling

The Fairport

How far along is Stuttgart Airport on its way to climate-neutral aircraft handling? How does the airport encourage sustainable innovations? See for yourself! The tour includes the following highlights, among others:

• Presentation and informational film about Stuttgart Airport
• Apron tour with a focus on sustainability
• Information on Sustainable technologies on the ground and in the air

Changi Aiport Tours

Language: English Cost: Yes. Tour 1 cost S$545 (Max group size 30). Tour 2 costs S$1,090 (max group size 17) Duration: 1.5 hours Wheelchair accessible: Yes Description:

Getting to know Changi – Tour 1:

Visitors will have a better understanding of how Changi Airport Group designed our terminals and visitor experiences, what makes the airport tick and how we manage to stay the most awarded airport in the world since the airport started operations.

This is a walking tour of Terminals 3 and 2 for groups (max. of 30), not available for booking by individuals.

(Note: visitors should be at least 18 years old)

Getting to know Changi – Tour 2:

Visitors will learn about what goes behind-the-scenes at Changi, to keep the airport going like clockwork.

Go on a bus tour in the airside to learn interesting nuggets of information and gain insights to special jobs at the airport. Visitors will also learn about innovations that the airport started trialling over the last few years.

This bus tour is for groups (max. of 17), not available for booking by individuals.

A guided tour of the Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport

A guided tour of the Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport includes a tour of the public section of the passenger terminal (check-in and baggage claim procedure), security control (importance of security and prohibited items), Schengen part of the passenger terminal, a drive on the ramp (aircraft loading/unloading) and a peek into the fire and rescue services (presentation of the work of firefighters and a fire truck). We can adjust the program to your needs, based on your wishes and capabilities. The contents of an individual tour are tailored to the visiting group.

The tour is intended for kindergartens, primary and secondary schools, associations and other organized groups.

Ljubljana Airport professional guided tour

We organize professional guided tours with tailored content for all faculties and educational institutions that teach about airport activities and for all those who want to learn more about what goes on at an airport.

Professional guided tour of the Fire and Rescue Service

The tour is intended for both voluntary and professional fire brigades. It includes a presentation of the work and equipment of the airport Fire and Rescue Service.

Switzerland

Zurich airport guided tours.

The tour of Zurich Airport starts on Observation Deck B at the cashier desk for bus tours. The group will pass the Transit Hotel and the airport’s Prayer Room, which is open to visitors of all faiths and denominations, on its way to the Airside Center. This building is the passenger hub of the airport and was designed to resemble a wing. The large windows offer excellent views of the tarmac. The group can watch aircraft docking or being pushed back for departure. In this area of the airport, visitors can also see how the Schengen and non-Schengen zones are separated and the guide will explain the passenger processes involved.

Afterwards, the group will take the Skymetro to Dock E, where they enjoy excellent views of a range of aircraft and the fascinating procedures of docking and pushback. Depending on the time of day, visitors may also be able to observe planes taking off and landing. On some occasions, they may be able to pay a brief visit to the tarmac via a passenger bridge, to witness the procedures at close range. The tour continues with a visit to the baggage sorting system, where the luggage is prepared for a flight. The pieces of luggage are sorted according to their bar codes and transported to the correct vehicles at an impressive speed on a conveyor belt of over 12 km in length.

The next stop is Observation Deck E with views of the runways, the de-icing pad and the Airport conservation area. Guests will again have the chance to watch planes taking off and landing and learn about the runway system in detail. To finish, the guide will accompany the group back Observation Deck B, where the tour started.

Throughout the tour, guests will have the opportunity to ask questions. All of the guides at the Airport have years of experience in flight operations and can answer questions expertly.

United States

Clt airport tour.

Language: English Cost: Doesn’t say Duration: ??? Wheelchair accessible: Doesn’t say Description:

Airport tours offer a behind-the-scenes experience and an insider’s view of one of the country’s largest airports, Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT).

Groups will learn what it takes to operate an international airport, get the latest information on CLT’s construction and expansion plans, find out what it means to be a hub airport and learn about CLT’s impact on the Charlotte region.

Groups are subject to a security check, which includes screening against the Department of Homeland Security’s No-Fly List. Based on the security check, some people could be excluded from participating.

The Community Engagement team offers a limited number of Airport tours each month, and tours can be reserved up to three months in advance.

Martin County Airport

Martin County Airport at Witham Field offers tours to provide guests of all ages with an in-depth look at the daily operations of our airport. Participants will enjoy a guided tour on an open-air tram.

Airport staff will be your host for the entire tour, providing an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience you’ll not want to miss! Learn the history of Witham Field and interesting facts about the airport and the business partners who call the Martin County Airport at Witham Field “home.”

Tours are free and can be structured to emphasize careers in aviation, the commerce of the airport, or the aviation industry as a whole, and will be tailored to the visiting group to maximize the tour experience.

Guided tour of Tampa International Airport

Language: English Cost: Free Duration: ??? Wheelchair accessible: Doesn’t say Description:

Are you excited about going to the airport for a flight? Would you like to take a look at what goes on behind the scenes at an international airport? If so, take advantage of Tampa International Airport’s Guided Tour. You will follow the path of arriving and departing passengers in the Main Terminal as you learn about: Aviation-related careers History of TPA Structure and design of TPA Public Art Program Airport security enhancements Tampa Airport Marriott During this walking tour, your experienced, professional guide will take you to visit all three levels of the Main Terminal. You will also learn about the Airside/Landside concept that makes Tampa International Airport one of “America’s Favorite Airports.” Restrictions on group size or minimum age may apply. Request to include career information, and you’ll learn about the many different career possibilities in the aviation industry. Airport tours are tailored to meet the special needs (guests with learning disabilities or those who require wheelchair assistance, for example), specific interests (such as aviation-related careers and women in aviation) or academic level of any group. All groups are welcome. Tours are offered daily based on availability. The maximum number of participants we can accommodate in each group is 40 (with the exception of Airfield Tours). The minimum touring age is 6 years old and chaperones are required for all student groups.

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Travel Checklist

Before packing.

• Start with an EMPTY bag (make sure all pockets and compartments don’t have any items in them)
• 3.4 ounces or less per container
• 1 quart size, clear, plastic, zip top bag (all liquids must fit in bag)
• 1 bag per passenger
•   Review the prohibited items list for both carry-on and checked baggage.
• If purchasing a baggage lock, be sure to look for those that are TSA recognized.
• Tape a card with your name and contact information on your electronics.

When Packing

• Pack items in layers (shoes one layer, clothes one layer, electronics one layer, etc.)
• Firearms are only allowed in checked baggage and must be unloaded, placed in a locked, hard-sided container and declared to your airline.
• All fireworks contain explosive materials and are not permitted in checked or carry-on baggage.
• Do not pack items such as box cutters, utility knives, and razors in carry-on luggage. Razor blades intended for shaving that are enclosed in a safety cartridge in which the blade cannot be removed are permitted.
• Pack large electronics on top layer of carry-on for screening accessibility.
• Place your 3-1-1 bag with liquids, gels and aerosols in the front pocket of your carry-on for accessibility.
• If traveling with a pet, be sure to bring a leash so carriers can be properly screened.

Before Leaving for the Airport

• Give yourself enough time to arrive at the airport early.
• Wear easily removable shoes.
• Passengers with a disability or medical condition may call ahead to the TSA Cares toll free helpline at (855) 787-2227 .

Before Entering the Checkpoint

• Eligible passengers look for the TSA PreCheck® lane for expedited screening at participating airports.
• Have your  ID and boarding pass out for inspection.

In Standard Screening Lane

• Remove the 3-1-1 liquids bag and place it in the bin.
• Ensure pockets are empty (keys, tissues, currency, wallets, cell phones, etc.) and remove bulky jewelry (valuable items can be placed in carry-on).
• Remove your shoes and place them directly on the X-ray belt.
• Remove personal electronic devices larger than a cell phone from your carry-on bag and place them into a bin with nothing placed on or under them for X-ray screening. (E.g. laptops, tablets, e-readers and handheld game consoles.)
• Remember to check the bins and collect all belongings after going through screening.

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Airport terminology deciphered., travel experts dish their best secrets., airport tips for wheelchair users., airport tips to get you on your way..

Getting through the airport can be a harrowing experience if you don't have the right moves. Read through these suggestions and arrive ready to enjoy your airport layover.

Traveling to a city with multiple airports can seem daunting. In these guides, our experts share their best tips on choosing the right airport for your trip.

Sometimes it can feel like the airport has a language of its own. We have turned to our airport expert, Harriet Baskas , to help us decode the airport codes.

With this handy glossary, you can walk the airport with confidence.

Airport aprons

From inside most airports, you can look out from banks of windows and see airplanes lined up at the gates and lots of busy workers on the ground. There are aircraft jet bridges being rolled into position and pulling away from full planes. Passengers are boarding and deboarding. Baggage handlers are loading and unloading suitcases. Planes are being refueled and inspected.

And it’s all taking place in the areas of the airport officially called aprons. You’ll often hear those areas referred to as ramps. And, according to the Federal Aviation Administration both terms are used to describe “the areas where aircraft park, load and unload.” But the official term is aprons.

Airport aprons are distinct from runways, which are where planes take off and land. And aprons are different than airport taxiways, which are the roadways, or the off and on ramps, that planes travel along to get to and from the runways.

What about the tarmac? Tarmac is the registered and trademarked product name of the material used to pave airport runways and other surfaces. And, technically, there is no specific area of an airport call the tarmac. But, that doesn’t deter travelers, news reporters and even the U.S. Department of Transportation from using the term tarmac when describing the activity that takes place on the airport apron. In fact, the DOT’s rule and schedule of fines for airlines at U.S. airports that don’t provide passengers with water, snacks or the opportunity to deplane during extended delays before takeoff or after landing is called, you guessed it, the “ tarmac delay ” rule.

Airport codes

BWI. SEA. LAX. ORD. You’ll notice letter codes like these on your airline flight reservations, on your boarding passes, on your checked bag tags, on airport and airline websites and, sometimes, on caps, mugs, socks and other swag handed out at airports.

These letter codes are official airport codes. And most every commercial airport in the world, large or small, has a unique three-letter code assigned to it by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) as well as a four-letter code assigned by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The codes are a sort of shorthand system used to distinguish one airport from another and it is IATA’s set of 3-letter codes that you’ll regularly see and use during your travels. Pilots and air traffic controllers use the four-letter ICAO codes.

Many three-letter airport codes are clearly linked to their city. Think, DEN for Denver International Airport and ALB for the airport in Albany, New York. Others get their code from the airport’s namesake. So, the code for New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport is JFK and the code for the Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport is CDG.

And then there are the airport codes that spell out words and/or elicit a giggle. The code for California’s Fresno International Airport is FAT. Florida’s St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport’s code is PIE. And although they once tried to swap it out for something else, the folks at Iowa’s Sioux Gateway Airport now fully embrace their IATA code, which is SUX. Curious about the code for an airport you’re visiting? You can look it up by name or code on the IATA website .

Airport gate

At the airport, the area where you wait to board your flight is called the gate, boarding gate, or hold room. You’ll find the assigned gate number for your flight on your boarding pass or posted on the flight information screens in the terminal. In large airports, the trek from the main terminal to your gate might be a 15-to-20-minute walk, so make sure to recheck the gate assignment before heading that way.

In the gate area you’ll usually find an information board with details about your flight, including the scheduled boarding and departure time. Messages about seat assignments, delays, and other flight details may be posted here as well.

Gate agents will arrive at the gate 45 minutes to an hour before the flight to staff the counter and take care of a myriad of flight details, including finalizing seating for upgraded and standby passengers, answering questions, and getting all the passengers onto the plane for a, hopefully, on-time departure.

In many airports, the gate areas are simply rooms or open spaces off the concourse corridor with hard seats. So, you may want to spend most of your pre-flight time in the shops or restaurants nearby. Elsewhere, gate areas are more welcoming, with comfortable worktables and banks of lounge chairs, plenty of places to charge phones and gadgets, museum-quality artwork, great views to the airfield, and the option to have meals and drinks, even cocktails, delivered to your seat.

Airport security check

Before you can board a commercial flight in the United States (or any country), you, your checked luggage and any carry-on items you want to take with you on the airplane must go through an airport security check.

In the United States, airport security is overseen by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). This government agency is tasked with preserving transportation security on mass transit systems (and at ports) and with preventing prohibited items from entering the sterile, or post-security, areas of airport terminals. TSA screens checked baggage in secure areas at airports using state-of-the-art X-ray scanning equipment. Similar technology is used at the security checkpoints, where you and your carry-on items will be screened for prohibited or dangerous items, such as weapons and explosives.

In the standard screening lane, you’ll need to empty your pockets before going through the screening machinery, put your shoes on the x-ray belt, and place liquids that comply with TSA’s 3-1-1 rule and all electronics in trays or bins. If you’re signed up for TSA PreCheck, you must still empty your pockets, but you are allowed to keep your shoes on and send your carry-on bag through the x-ray machine with electronics and liquids inside.

Airport security programs

Hate to wait at the airport? There are airport security programs that will cut the time you spend at the checkpoint before your flight and on the customs and immigration lines after international flights when you come home.

TSA PreCheck gives low-risk travelers access to dedicated Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoint lanes at more than 200 airports. No need to remove your shoes, electronics, 3-1-1 liquids or light jackets. The application process includes a visit to an enrollment site to get fingerprinted and photographed, plus a $78 fee, which covers a five-year membership (renewal is $70.)

Clear ($189/year), available at more than 55 airports, uses biometric data (fingerprints and/or eye scans) to identify vetted members. If you’re enrolled in TSA PreCheck, you’ll get escorted to the front of the TSA PreCheck lanes; if not, you’ll go to the front of the standard TSA line.

Clear also manages Reserve , a free program offered at more than 20 airports in North America and Europe that allows travelers to avoid long airport security lines by making a reservation to go through a dedicated standard TSA lane at a certain time.

Global Entry , a U.S. Customs and Border Protection program, offers expedited entry lanes for vetted travelers at dozens of U.S. airports and at land and sea borders via the NEXUS and SENTRI programs. Membership is $100, includes TSA PreCheck and is good for 5 years.

Airport terminal

At an airport, the terminal is the building or collection of buildings where airline passengers go to board planes and where arriving passengers deplane. The airport terminal is also where passengers may check-in for their flights (if they haven’t done so on-line), drop off their luggage, pass through security and wait at gate holding areas for their flights to depart.

And the terminal is where arriving passengers pass through customs and immigration (if arriving on an international flight), retrieve checked luggage at baggage claim, and proceed to private or public ground transportation or into the arms of friends or family waiting in the arrivals area or curbside.

Small airports usually have one main terminal with a handful of boarding gates. Larger airports may have a main terminal with boarding gates stretched out along several corridors, or concourses. There may also be separate ‘satellite’ terminals accessed by walkways, trains, or buses. No matter the size, in addition to check-in and boarding gates and airline counters, airport terminal buildings have shops, restaurants, bars, kids play areas, restrooms, and other amenities.

Airport transfer

Airport transfers include a variety of shared, private and scheduled services providing transportation to or from the airport and locations such as hotels, cruises, ships, event venues, and homes.

While convenient, public transportation and taxis or popular rideshare services are not categorized as airport transfers. Services that range from hotel shuttle vans to private car services are.

Private airport transfers

Those people standing in the bag claim arrivals hall holding handwritten signs or electronic screens with people’s names on them are drivers hired to provide pre-booked airport transfers, usually in town cars or swanky limousines. You can pre-book this type of airport transfer from your home to the airport as well. While more expensive than public transportation and, usually, hailed taxis or rideshares, this sort of airport transfer is popular because it is dependable and convenient.

If you’re joining a tour group or cruise, the company you’ve booked with may include or offer to arrange an airport transfer in a town car, van or bus as well.

Shared airport transfers

Shared bus or shuttle van service is another airport transfer option. You can reserve a ride to the airport in a shared van that picks up other passengers along the way. And at the airport, you can book a seat in a shared van that will drop passengers off at their homes or another in-town destination.

Shared airport transfers include the complimentary hotel shuttle vans often offered by hotels at or near airports. Most operate with a regular curbside pick-up schedule. Others require that you call the hotel from bag claim to request a pick-up, especially in off-hours. Note that some hotels, especially near busy cruise ports, offer their shared van service to and from the airport or the port for a fee.

Baggage claim

The baggage claim, sometimes referred to as the baggage hall, is the area of an airport where passengers on arriving flights go to reclaim checked luggage that has traveled in the hold of the airplane.

In all but the smallest airports, unloaded bags are delivered from the airplane to rotating conveyor belts known as baggage carousels, or luggage carousels, in the baggage claim area. You watch for your bag to appear on the moving conveyor and pluck it off as it moves by. Fellow passengers may crowd the belts, but the proper carousel etiquette is to stand back until you spot your bag and then move forward to retrieve it. The handy thing about a carousel is that if you miss your bag the first time, it will come around again.

How will you know which carousel will have your luggage? A flight attendant or gate agent meeting your flight may announce the number, or letter, of the assigned bag claim carousel. Your airline’s app may send you an alert. Or follow the signs to baggage claim and scan the display boards for your flight number, origination city, and luggage carousel number.

And how long will it take for your bags to arrive at the bag claim? The cheeky answer is ‘it depends.’ While it may sometimes feel as if it’s taking forever for your bag to arrive, technology has made it easier for airlines to get your baggage off the plane and to the bag claim. In fact, at least two airlines, Alaska and Delta, offer a 20-minute bag service guarantee (conditions apply) and both offer compensation if they don’t deliver your bags on time.

Boarding a flight

Boarding a flight is the process of moving from the waiting area at the gate and onto the airplane.

You will need a boarding pass to board a flight. If you check in online, your airline will issue an electronic boarding pass that can be printed or stored on a smartphone. Printed boarding passes can also be secured at the airport from self-service kiosks or at your airline’s ticket counter. Once you pass through the security checkpoint, you may head to the gate assigned to your flight. To find the gate number, look on your ticket or on the airport information display screens.

Domestic flights usually start boarding about 30 minutes before departure. International flights begin boarding 45 minutes to an hour before departure. Most airlines close boarding at least 15 minutes before departure. And while the plane may still be at the gate with the door open, you may be denied boarding if you are late.

Airlines board flights by zones, groups, rows, or seats. And, for efficiency, passengers are asked to only approach the jetway entrance with their assigned group. First and business-class passengers usually board first, followed by premium and economy class passengers. But airlines often offer early boarding to parents traveling with small children, people who need help boarding, active military personnel and others.

When it is your turn to board, scan or show your boarding pass to the gate agent at the jet bridge door, follow the walkway to the airplane door, find you row and seat number on the plane, store your bags overhead or under your seat and settle in for your flight.

Checking in for your flight can be as easy as making a few taps on an airline app or it may require you to stand in line at the airport check-in counter. Either way, you must check in for your flight before the airline will issue you a boarding pass. And if you don’t check in on time, you will not be allowed to board your flight. Checking in for your flight can be as easy as making a few taps on an airline app or it may require you to stand in line at the airport check-in counter. Either way, you must check in for your flight before the airline will issue you a boarding pass. And if you don’t check in on time, you will not be allowed to board your flight.

Checking in for your flight can be as easy as making a few taps on an airline app or it may require you to stand in line at the airport check-in counter. Either way, you must check in for your flight before the airline will issue you a boarding pass. And if you don’t check in on time, you will not be allowed to board your flight.

Customs & immigration

Arriving international travelers must show their passports and go through a customs and immigration checkpoint before they leave the secure area of an airport. Arriving international travelers must show their passports and go through a customs and immigration checkpoint before they leave the secure area of an airport.

Arriving international travelers must show their passports and go through a customs and immigration checkpoint before they leave the secure area of an airport.

Hub airport

It would be great if you could fly non-stop from your home airport to any destination your heart desires or your business trip requires. And indeed, some big airports boast that they offer more than 200 nonstop flights to domestic and international destinations.

But, for efficiency, most airlines operate on a hub and spoke system with key airports serving as the hubs, or main connecting points, for a network of flights that come and go from other cities on routes that serve as spokes. So, unless you live by a big airport and their nonstop destinations are on your agenda, you may find that you must connect, or transfer, in a hub airport before getting where you need to go.

Depending on your destination, the time between flights may be less than an hour or require a multi-hour layover. And frequent flyers will get to know certain hub airports very well.

One or more airlines may use an airport as a hub, and major airlines operate with hubs at multiple airports. American Airlines has its largest hub at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and additional domestic hubs in Charlotte, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Phoenix and Washington, D.C.

Delta Air Lines’ main hub is at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), but it also maintains domestic hubs in Boston, Detroit, Los Angeles, Minneapolis-St. Paul, New York (JFK and LaGuardia), Salt Lake City and Seattle. And United Airlines’ domestic hubs are Chicago (O’Hare), Houston, Los Angeles, Newark (EWR), San Francisco, and Washington (Dulles).

Discover the most effective hacks for making your airport-to-airport journey smooth and enjoyable – from travel industry heavyweights Harriet Baskas, Stefanie Waldek and Blane Bachelor.

1. Preparing for a layover

If your airport layover is short, study the airport terminal map before landing so you won’t stumble around searching for your next flight’s gate. During a layover of a few hours, you may be tempted to park yourself in one spot.

You’ll have more fun if you review the airport’s website (or visit an information desk) and treat yourself to a nice sit-down meal, an in-airport art tour, a day pass to a lounge, or some private work or nap time in a short stay airside hotel.

You might also visit an airport yoga studio, an outdoor observation deck, or a spa offering massages, manicures and other salon services.

2. Airport security hack

Airport security isn’t always the most pleasant experience, but it is possible to make it easier. I recommend signing up for TSA PreCheck. Most airports have special lanes for members of this Trusted Traveler program, which is run by the Transportation Security Administration, and they’re almost always shorter than the regular airport security lanes. TSA PreCheck members also do not need to remove their liquids, electronics, or shoes as they’re going through security.

You can also get TSA PreCheck for free if you sign up for Global Entry, which is a Trusted Traveler program for expediting immigration into the U.S. There’s also the private company Clear that allows you to skip the airport security line, though it’s far more expensive than TSA PreCheck, and in my own experience, the lines aren’t necessarily all that short these days. Still, you might be able to get a free or discounted Clear membership via certain credit cards and airline loyalty programs. Finally, if you don’t belong to any of these programs, you can still make your airport security experience easier.

3. What to wear at the airport

Many travelers put a lot of thought into what they’ll wear for a long flight. But one of the tips among my best airport hacks is to make sure you also dress for the airport before even boarding a flight.

First off, if you (like me) prefer not to check a bag whenever possible, you can save space in your carry-on by wearing an extra layer or two. One essential for nearly every trip I take is my denim jean jacket. The perfect blend of fashionable and functional, it goes with just about any outfit. But its pockets are my airport’s secret weapon, specifically the two inner ones. They’re ideal for stashing must-haves like boarding passes, phones, and passports.

That convenience is great for the flight too: easy to take off when you’re at your seat, a cinch to pull back on when you need to use the restroom or stretch your legs.

Our expert on accessible travel, Cory Lee , shares his own tips on things to consider, from wheelchair loan to pre-boarding and much more.

More guides for happy travels.

Flight status info, airport maps and other info for popular airports.

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ONT airport

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SJC airport

OAK airport

JFK airport

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LHR airport

STN airport

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MDW airport

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NRT airport

Disclaimer: Information is correct as of 03.14.2024 and may vary with time.

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Complete Guide to Free Airport Layover Tours | City Sightseeing Tours for your Layover

Last Updated on April 11, 2024 by Christine Kaaloa

This post contains affiliate links. I have travel insurance on all my trips ( get a quote ). If you want to find an insurance plan based on your needs & budget, use this trip  insurance finder tool . Read my guide on trip insurance options for U.S. Travelers. .

Ever found yourself with a lengthy layover at an airport, contemplating how to make the most of that in-between time? I do this often. Luckily, some airports around the world offer free airport layover tours and in-transit city tours, providing travelers with an opportunity to explore the nearby city. In this guide, I’m sharing six airports that offer complimentary airport layover tours and how airport layover tours operate.

Read what I pack for long haul flights & layovers

Table of Contents: Complete Guide to Free Airport Layover Tours | City Sightseeing Tours for your Layover

• 0.1 What are free airport layover tours?
• 0.2 How do airport guided tours work? (Step-by-step process)
• 1.0.1 1. Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) – Free Singapore City Tour
• 1.0.2 2. Istanbul Airport (IST) – Touristanbul City Tour
• 1.0.3 3. Doha Hamad International Airport (DOH) – Discover Qatar Tour
• 1.0.4 4. Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) – Half-Day Tour Taiwan
• 1.0.5 5. Incheon International Airport (ICN) – City Transit Tours in Seoul
• 1.0.6 6. Riga International Airport (RIX) – Riga City Tour
• 1.1 What if you are carrying luggage with you?
• 1.2 Should you tip your guide on an in-transit city tour?

What are free airport layover tours?

Airport layover tours, in-transit city tours, airport stopover tours ,… they go by various names, but they all spell inexpensive entertainment during a long layover and I love them. As a traveler who loves taking advantage of long layovers, I’ve started test driving airport layover tours!

Free airport layover tours are airport guided tours that help you spend your waiting time by offering a unique glimpse into the local culture and city attractions of each destination. Sometimes they are tied to a specific airlines or airport who is partnering with the tourism board.

Either way, they are are almost always a partnership between the airport and the city’s tourism board as a complimentary service that allows travelers with long layovers, the opportunity to have a taste of their city in the hopes you’ll return for a longer stay. Some airport layover tours are free, and others are offered at a discounted cost and still budget-oriented.

Read ways to get a free trip from your layover & essential tips for connecting flights & layovers

When passing through Qatar Airport, I wanted to do the sand dune tours, which were offered by the airport and tourism board at a discounted price which was a quarter of how much I would’ve expected it to cost. It was still a complimentary cost given out of the tourism board’s hospitality and ahem.. I’ve worked with tourism boards to know their goal is not to profit as a private entity. Unfortunately however, my timetable didn’t align. Instead, I went to the airport layover tour kiosk and took a discounted Doha city sightseeing tour at night! So keep reading as i’ll share more of that experience!

Miss the guided airport tour? Check out these airports that offer Airport Sleeping Pods

How do airport guided tours work (step-by-step process).

1. Find the layover city tour kiosk and check tour schedules : Often, the airport will have a tour desk or kiosk in the terminal and one outside the terminal in Arrivals, where you can sign up and book a tour. In specific cases, like my layover with Turkish Airlines , I needed to check in with the Turkish Airlines customer support desk, where they handled the city tour and in-transit hotel.

Tip: Research airport guided tour options in advance so you’re prepared before arriving.

2. To qualify for an airport layover tour, you need to meet the layover duration requirement. They take this seriously because the city layover tour program is responsible for ensuring you return on time for your flight.  They have gauged how much time is required to complete the tour and get back to your gate. The kiosk attendant will check your flight ticket itinerary and passport to see that you qualify with enough hours for the layover tour.

3. Passing through immigration without a visa: If you check in and sign up for a tour, with the city tour kiosk inside your terminal,  the tour desk attendant escorts you through immigration. They inform immigration officials that you are on a transit tour, so if there is a visa requirement, they skirt you through the visa part without any issues. Remember, their responsibility is to get you on the tour and back to the airport on time so you can resume your trip connection.

4. Check in with the city tour desk and wait: After clearing immigration, you then proceed to the city tour desk outside Arrivals. This is where they double check your flight ticket, collect passengers and guide them to board the city tour bus .

5. Drop your luggage at left luggage: Prepare in advance for your tour and pack light for carry-on luggage to check at the airport or anti-theft essentials purse . I use Hynes Eagle convertible carry-on for lightweight travel ease. There are options for storage, so keep reading.

6. Take the city tour and make sure you show up at the appointed times. Some tours offer a very guided experience. Others, you may receive a guide who prepares and informs you about the next location while on the bus then, you get dropped at the location and told when to meet back.

Tip: Always be on time for the pickup and take a photo of the bus location spot in case you get lost and need to ask help from locals.

7. Return to the city tour desk: After your free airport city tour is complete, you will be returned to the city tour desk outside Arrivals and the tour is complete.

Tip: Don’t forget to pick up your luggage at the desk or with left luggage.

8. Get back to your gate in time to board your connecting flight: You must then go through airport security and immigration again but on your own. This part of the journey back to your gate is your responsibility.

Download my 25 Solo Travel Mistakes to Avoid Checklist

6 free airport layover tours and in-transit city tours.

I’ve listed the airport layover tours I know of. If you Google airport layover tours , you might get a handful of listings for city tours for layovers, but you must be careful as some of them are private tour companies. You will be required to do real research, so i’d follow the airport links on my page and try to stay closely aligned to them.

1. Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) – Free Singapore City Tour

A favorite airport of many travelers is Singapore Changi Airport. Known for its world-class amenities, indoor garden and waterfall, it offers a complimentary city tour for passengers with layovers between 5.5 and 24 hours. It is a sprawling airport and you will fill your hours taking a stroll. There are four tour itineraries offered and it is open to all in-transit passengers.

Explore iconic landmarks like Gardens by the Bay, enjoy Singapore’s vibrant heritage culture and more.

Check the requirements and details on the Changi Airport website . Singapore Airlines and Scoot passengers can book online here . Other passengers can make reservations at the tour booth at Terminals 3 & 4. You must abide by visa regulations .

2. Istanbul Airport (IST) – Touristanbul City Tour

Turkish Airlines invites passengers with layovers at Istanbul Airport between 6 and 24 hours to embark Touristanbul a guided in-transit city tour of this historical city. Explore Istanbul on a layover? It’s a good deal.

Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Istanbul by visiting landmarks such as the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. The tour lasts approximately 6 hours

You don’t need to book in advance; just show up at the Hostel Desk of the International Arrivals Terminal of İstanbul Airport or from the Touristanbul Desk Office in the Transfer desk area. Check the Touristanbul for restrictions.

Tip: Check out my Turkish Airlines review and how I got a free transit hotel in Istanbul.

3. Doha Hamad International Airport (DOH) – Discover Qatar Tour

Hamad International Airport in Doha offers passengers with layovers between 4 and 8 hours the opportunity to explore Qatar with the Discover Qatar Tour . There are 4-6 tours to choose from from a Doha highlights tour, desert tour, golfing tour and three airport tour where you can tour the airport, play squash or simulated golf!  These are not free but most are inexpensive.

I did the Discover Doha tour and loved it. We took a city bus with a guide told us about the sites we visited and about Qatar culture. We stopped at a handful of top sights like Katara Cultural Village, Dhow Corniche, Doha Harbour, Museum of Islamic Arts, the Golden Masjid, etc… and drove by others. Unfortunately it was a night tour so much of our sightseeing was of beautifully lit architecture with occasional guided walk-throughs and peek-ins of these locations.  My favorite was visiting the vibrant markets of Souq Waqif ; it certainly made me wish I had longer in Doha. The bus was nice and spacious and they gave us complementary bottled water. The tour duration for the Doha city tour was around 4 hours.

You might also qualify for the free transit hotel or do a stopover in Doha. Find more information on the Discover Qatar website .

Read my more about the top free transit hotels

4. taiwan taoyuan international airport (tpe) – half-day tour taiwan.

Passengers with layovers between 7 and 24 hours at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport can join a free half-day in-transit city tour of Taipei. You must be from a country eligible for visa-exempt entry or have valid R.O.C. visa. Tour is limited to 18 seats. You can pre-book anywhere from 5 to 90 days before arrival.

Visit notable attractions such as Taipei 101 and the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. The half-day tour is approximately 4 hours, while the full-day tour is around 7 hours. I’ve already been to Taiwan twice and I didn’t know these existed, so I’m excited to catch it on my next visit.

For details, visit Half Day Tour Taiwan . If you have longer than 24 hours in Taiwan, check out my Taipei trip guide .

5. Incheon International Airport (ICN) – City Transit Tours in Seoul

Incheon Airport offers a rich handful of free to inexpensive airport stopover tours for passengers with layovers between 4 and 24 hours. They have city tour desks in Terminal 1 and 2. They have anything from airport tours, temple tours, historical tours and more. They have a good selection to explore the beauty of Seoul, Incheon or anything nearby. The tour duration varies, with options for 1.5 to 5 hours. Check the requirements on the Incheon Airport website .

I did the Hongdae tour, where we had a tour leader on the bus to tell us about Korea and make sure we were all accounted for. The Hongdae tour was a free time where we could explore Hongdae for an hour and then return to the bus.  Much of the time was absorbed by a roughly 45 minute drive from Incheon Airport into Seoul and back. But I did appreciate the little time I spent in Hongdae walking the crowded shopping streets (okay, kinda running)  and then spending time at a popular food stall eating fishcake on a stick ( eomuk-guk ) and tteokbokki. Soooo good.  The bus was comfortable and had free onboard wifi.

Read my review of Korean Airlines economy

6. Riga International Airport (RIX) – Riga City Tour

Travelers with layovers over 5 hours at Riga International Airport qualify for an airport tous. They are not free and there is no itinerary on the website, so you will need to email them. There are other websites that offer free city tours, but this is not affiliated with the transit service.  Learn more on the Riga City tour .

Make sure to check the specific requirements and details on the respective airport websites before planning your airport layover adventure. From Singapore to Amsterdam, these airport stopover tours are an excellent way to turn a layover into a mini-vacation.

What if you are carrying luggage with you?

If you know in advance that you’re planning to do an in-transit tour, it’s best to check your luggage beforehand. Otherwise, you’ll need to take it with you on your tour. I use Hynes Eagle convertible carry-on for lightweight carry-on travel ease. It’s compact so it doesn’t take up much room and sometimes, there is space on the bus for you to store it. Airport tours have either let me store my luggage at their kiosk desk or on the tour bus.

If you’re friendly and the tour desk agent is having a good day, sometimes they allow you to store your luggage behind the tour desk. I stored my carry-on duffle bag there because I did not have valuables in it, other than souvenirs. The tour desk attendants are not responsible for any lost or missing valuables.

Another option is to store your carry-on in the airport’s left luggage facility. They typically charge by hour or half/full day rates.

Tip: Carry your valuables and do not leave them in your carry-on luggage.

Should you tip your guide on an in-transit city tour?

Tipping your guide on an in-transit tour is generally a thoughtful gesture and a way to express gratitude for their services. While it may not be expect or a strict requirement, especially if the tour cost includes gratuities, offering a tip is a customary practice in many cultures.

The amount can vary depending on the length and nature of the tour, and the responsibilities of the guide. Tipping acknowledges the guide’s efforts in making your layover experience enjoyable and informative. It also fosters a positive relationship with local tourism services, ensuring a pleasant connection between travelers and the destination. Always consider the cultural norms of the country you’re in, as tipping practices can vary widely. If the tour is free, then I definitely like to gift my guide something.

You may not have the country currency, I like to use U.S. dollars.

Read 30 responsible tips for ethical travelers

What do you think of Free Airport Layover Tours and in-transit city tours? Would you be taking them?

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• Tours from Heathrow Airport >

Heathrow Layover Tours

Our Heathrow layover tours are the perfect way to make the most of your airport transit time. Our most popular tour is a 5-6 hour highlights tour of London. Travel in an iconic London Black Taxi or executive vehicle which seats up to 6 passengers accompanied by a driver/guide. You can book this directly on our booking page. We can also arrange layover tours for larger groups or visits to Stonehenge and Windsor Castle.

All our layover tours are designed to give you the best experience possible during your short time in London. We offer pick times throughout the morning and can pick up from all Heathrow airport terminals, as well as Heathrow hotels.

Heathrow layover tourS 5-6 Hours

Highlights of London

Our 5-6 hour tours from Heathrow are perfect if you have a layover and would like to use this time to see London.

5-6 Hour London Highlights Tour:

• Pick-up from your terminal at Heathrow Airport
• Travel to London in a London Black Taxi or executive vehicle which seats up to 6 people
• Enjoy a panoramic sightseeing tour of London.
• See many of the main sights in London including Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, the River Thames and more!
• Your friendly driver/guide will provide knowledgeable insight into the city

You can book this layover tour of London directly on our booking page.

5-6 Hour Layover Tours – Alternative Destinations

• Another way to make the most of your Heathrow Airport layover is by visiting Windsor Castle, Hampton Court Palace or Stonehenge
• Windsor Castle is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in the world! It is one of the official residences of the British Royal Family. Windsor Castle is located just a 20-minute drive from Heathrow Airport.
• Stonehenge is around a 90-minute to 2-hour drive from Heathrow Airport. See the UNESCO World Heritage site with the most famous stone circles in the world! Stonehenge was built around 5,000 years ago, although nobody is sure why it was constructed and what purpose it serves.
• Hampton Court Palace is a royal palace located approximately 30 minutes from Heathrow Airport. Highlights include seeing its beautiful gardens, Henry VIII’s apartments, Cumberland Art Gallery and more.

If you would like to book one of our alternative 5-6 hour layover tours from Heathrow, please get in touch..

• Our Heathrow layover tours pick up from all terminals at Heathrow Airport as well as nearby hotels
• At the end of the tour we will drop you back at your Heathrow Airport terminal or nearby hotel
• Our Heathrow Layover tours are also suitable if you are continuing your journey from a different airport or seaport. We can drop off at all major London airports including Gatwick Airport, Stansted Airport or London City Airport. We can also drop off at Southampton Cruise Terminal, Dover Port or Harwich Port.
• Our layover tours are also a great option for travellers who are arriving at Heathrow early in the morning and are looking for a tour before checking into their London hotel.
• All layover tours can be arranged with an early morning pickup or a late evening dropoff
• Tours are planned according to the amount of time you have available between your flights.
• We use an iconic London Black Taxi or executive vehicle for groups of up to 6 people.  We can also offer for larger groups a range of different vehicles according to your size and luggage requirements. This includes sedan vehicles, MPVs, 16-seater minibuses and coaches.
• It takes approximately 1 hour to get through Heathrow Airport after landing
• We aim to return you to the airport 2 hours before your flight departure

Tour Booking

Heathrow layover tours – full-day tours.

Our full day-day tours are perfect for longer layovers at Heathrow Airport. With 9-10 hours you can spend a full day exploring London or visit some beautiful spots located near Heathrow Airport in the English countryside. All full-day Heathrow layover tour includes comfortable transportation and can be arranged with or without a guide.

Full-day Heathrow Layover Tours

• Spend a full-day day sightseeing in London. We’ll meet you at your Heathrow terminal and drive into the capital. There are many ways to enjoy a private guided tour of London, and highlights could include watching the Changing of the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace, visiting the Tower of London and seeing Big Ben.
• Another popular Heathrow layover tour includes visiting Stonehenge, Windsor Castle and the city of Bath. We can also arrange private versions of most of our group Stonehenge tours .
• Alternatively, head to Oxford on a full-day layover tour from Heathrow. The city is home to one of the most famous universities in the world. Highlights include going inside some of the ancient university colleges, seeing Bodleian Library and enjoying the extraordinary architecture. From here, we can also drive into the English countryside to a region known as the Cotswolds. Stop in charming English villages and admire the green rolling landscapes.
• Finally, we can arrange a themed-tour from Heathrow Airport. Visit the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter on a day out from Heathrow. Alternatively, discover the magic of Downton Abbey with a visit to Highclere Castle and the nearby locations used in the filming of the TV series.

Please get in touch if you would like to book one of these full day tours

terms and conditions

You might also be interested.

Pre Cruise 3 Day London Package - with Transfer to Southampton

Stonehenge Tour from London & Heathrow to Southampton

Windsor Castle Tour from London & Heathrow to Southampton

Shuttle from London & Heathrow to Southampton

Dover Private Transfer via Leeds Castle or Canterbury Cathedral

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Airport Tours

Do you know which building at Frankfurt Airport could easily accommodate the Eiffel Tower with room to spare? Or what happens with mangoes before they wind up on supermarket shelves? You’ll learn these and many other interesting facts during one of our airport tours with live narration. You sit comfortably in a air-conditioned bus the whole time. Our tour guides are looking forward to sharing fascinating insider information with you!

After the tour is before the Visitors' Center!

There is plenty of soccer fun to discover at the Visitors' Center. In addition to the exciting attractions for the whole family, special football highlights await fans of all ages during the soccer fever season. Please book your ticket online in advance.  

All tours at a glance

• Fire Department Tour *
• Combined Tour
• Starter Tour

Fire Department Tour (Duration: 120 Minutes)

Experience exciting fire department tours to our fascinating Fire Station 3 at Frankfurt Airport from February 24 . You will be accompanied by expert Fraport firefighters. A unique experience that offers you exciting insights and unforgettable moments. Please note: For safety reasons, c hildren under the age of 6 cannot take part in t he Fire Department Tour! Prices:

Regular:   € 28

Reduced: € 26

Combined-Tour (Duration: 120 minutes)

Experience our most popular products in combination: enjoy our  45-minute Starter Tour  followed by a visit to our multimedia  Visitors' Center. The duration of the combined tour is about 120 minutes in total. An exciting adventure at Frankfurt Airport!  

Regular:    €    19  

Reduced: €    16  

Starter-Tour (Duration: 45 minutes)

On our 45-minute Starter Tour, you will experience the airport "in a nutshell". From the bus, you will see aircraft refueling, take-offs, landings and international aircraft paintings up close. This tour is moderated live and our tour guides are happy to answer any questions you may have.

Regular:      €    11  

Reduced:   €      9  

XXL-Tour (Duration: 120 minutes)

The 120-minute XXL Tour is the “big band” of our tours. While riding the bus, you can watch ground handling of aircraft, get a good look at our new fire station, drive past CargoCity South to the Terminal 3 construction site, among other things. Our tour guides will be more than happy to tell you all about “their” airport.  We strongly recommend participation from the age of at least 10 years!

Regular:      €    24  

Reduced:   €    22  

This is what awaits you on our tours

We reserve the right to adjust the number of seats offered in the online store to the further course of the pandemic and to reduce them if necessary.

EVERY GUEST NEEDS:

• An online booking (incl. time slot)
• A credit card to carry out the online booking Please note that your order has been successfully completed only upon receipt of the tickets. Unfortunately, it is not possible to bring animals on the tours. Except for guide dogs for the blind and assistance dogs.

All tour guests are requested to arrive 30 minutes before the start of the tour in Terminal 1, Concourse C , as the buses depart on time and you will go through a security check together with your tour guide beforehand. The meeting point is at the turquoise wall near the flight display board.

Unfortunately, access to our buses is not barrier-free at this time. For more information, please email: [email protected].

Alternatively, we would like to kindly refer you to our barrier-free visitor center, from which you can get great views of the apron.

• Starter-Tour, Combined-Tour and XXL-Tour tickets may only be purchased in advance from our online ticket shop.
• Tour and Combined-Tour participants are requested to be at Terminal 1, Concourse C, Level 2 (departures) 30 minutes prior to the start of  the tour. Please follow the signs for “FRA Airport Tours & Shop”.   The meeting point is at the turquoise wall near the flight display board.
• Please note that all our Airport Tours are only available in German. Please ask for our English flyer.
• Please note that the access to our buses is currently not barrier-free . For more information, please email: besucherservice@fraport .de. As an alternative, we would like to kindly refer you to our new and barrier-free visitors' center , from where you can get great views of the airfield activity.    
• Unfortunately, it is not possible to bring animals on an Airport Tour. Exception: guide dogs and assistance dogs.
• Due to the duration and intensity of the XXL Tour, we strongly recommend participation only from the age of 10 years.
• Please note: For safety reasons, children under the age of 6  cannot take part  in  the Fire Department Tour.

Starter-Tour Tickets (Duration: 45 minutes)

*All prices include 19% value-added tax.

You can find tickets for the Starter-Tour in our   ticket shop .

Please note that your order has been successfully completed only upon receipt of the tickets.

Combined-Tour Tickets (Duration: 120 minutes)

You can find tickets for the combined-tour in our    ticket shop ., xxl-tour tickets (duration: 120 minutes).

The XXL tour is not suitable for our youngest visitors. We therefore strongly recommend participation from the age of at least 10 years!

You can find tickets for the XXL-Tour in our   ticket shop .

Due to a system change, previous vouchers can unfortunately no longer be redeemed. To exchange these vouchers, please kindly send an e-mail with a photo of the voucher to   [email protected] .  

Regular Fire Department Tour from 24.02.2024 (duration: 120 minutes)

You can find tickets for the   fire department tour in our ticket shop . the ticket can be booked from 24.02.2024..

Please note: - For safety reasons, children under the age of 6  cannot take part  in  the Fire Department Tour. -  Your order has been successfully completed only upon receipt of the tickets.

Starter-Tour

Please note that days and the departure times indicated may need to be changed at short notice depending on operational requirements at the airport.

At the airport

The tours start from Terminal 1, departure level 2, hall C. Please follow the signs "FRA Airport Tours & Shop".   The meeting point is at the turquoise wall near the flight display board.

By car / Parking facilities

The public parking garages of Frankfurt Airport are available to guests of the Visitors' Center with more than 10,000 parking spaces. Drive into the P2 or P3 parking garage. Travel buses have the possibility to drive into the parking garage P36. There is a direct link from the parking garages to the terminal area. For more information on our parking facilities, please visit www.frankfurt-airport.com/en/transport-and-parking/parking.html .

When using a GPS system

For the navigation system please enter Frankfurt Airport, Terminal 1, postal code 60547; alternatively: parking garages P2/P3 at Frankfurt Airport.

By public transport

From the regional train station you can get directly to the Airport City Mall. Regional and long-distance buses stop in front of Terminal 1. The meeting point is at the turquoise wall near the flight display board.

Please note the following:

1. Children and adults must carry identification, otherwise they will not be able to participate in the tour.

2. The minimum age for participants in the Fire Department Tour is 6 years.

3.  Please note that for security reasons you have to state your date of birth when booking.

4. For safety reasons, it is important to adhere to the supervision ratio stated below.

5. Smoking is prohibited on the entire apron.

6. The safety vest provided must be worn during the entire stay on the apron, including inside the fire station.

7. After leaving the bus, the entire group must go to the hall wall behind the vehicles. Doors, clothing racks and vehicles must be kept clear.

8. It is not permitted to leave the group. The courtyard or apron may only be entered when accompanied.

9. The instructions of the supervisor, the security service and the fire department personnel must be followed.

Supervision key for visiting the fire station:

• 6 years:              one caregiver for two children
• 7 - 11 years:        one caregiver for four children              
• 12 - 13 years:     one caregiver for six children  
• 14 - 16 years:     one caregiver for ten children           
• 17 years:            one caregiver for fifteen children

How to find us

Latest news, visitors' terrace.

We are very pleased to inform you that our popular visitors' terrace will be open for you again from March 23! We would like to invite you to our family celebration on March 24, 2024 in Terminal 2. We look forward to your visit.

Airport Tours with a new look

"Welcome to the fun side of Frankfurt Airport" - this is how you will be greeted in the new entrance area of our Airport Tours. Since November, the Airport Tours have been shining in a new turquoise-blue look. Clearly visible to all visitors in terminal 1, departure hall C center. We wish you an exciting airport tour!

A few impressions of our airport tours

• General terms and conditions: Visitor Service of Fraport AG 416 KB (PDF)

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Narita Airport: Layover or Transit 4-hour Guided Tour

• Guided , Narita , Tour Reviews

The Narita Airport: Layover or Transit 4-hour Guided Tour provides an exciting opportunity for travelers passing through Narita Airport to enjoy Japan’s culture and history . Led by an English-speaking guide, this customizable private tour allows participants to explore the highlights of Narita in just four hours.

From the ancient Naritasan Shinshoji Temple to indulging in authentic local cuisine, this tour ensures a memorable and convenient experience for transit passengers.

With flexible booking options, travelers can make the most of their time at Narita Airport.

Quick Takeaways

• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
• Duration of the tour is 4 hours
• Highlights include discovering Japanese culture, nature , and people during transit time
• Customizable tour to meet your needs

Not for you? Here's a few more great tours and experiences nearby.

• Private Transfer From Tokyo Narita Int Airport(Nrt) to Tokyo Port
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Activity and Tour Details

The guided tour at Narita Airport offers a 4-hour exploration of Japanese culture, nature , and people during transit time. With customization options and tour duration flexibility , passengers can tailor their experience to meet their needs.

The tour allows participants to visit Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, a thousand-year historical site, and explore Naritasan Omotesando , a quaint , old-fashioned street. Additionally , participants can enjoy a Japanese cuisine experience that satisfies both the eyes and the palate.

The tour is designed specifically for transit passengers at Narita Airport, providing a unique opportunity to enjoy the local culture. With an English-speaking guide, baggage storage fees included, and all necessary information provided, participants can make the most of their limited time.

Whether it’s trying local food or visiting cultural sites, this tour offers a memorable experience for transit passengers.

Highlights of the Tour

During the 4-hour guided tour at Narita Airport, participants can experience a number of highlights that showcase Japanese culture, nature, and cuisine.

The tour offers a unique opportunity for Japanese culture exploration , allowing visitors to enjoy the rich history and traditions of the country. One of the highlights is a visit to Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, a thousand-year-old historical site known for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere.

Another highlight is exploring Naritasan Omotesando , a quaint , old-fashioned street lined with charming shops and restaurants.

Plus, participants can enjoy a delightful Japanese cuisine experience, where they can indulge in local delicacies that aren’t only delicious but also visually appealing.

The tour is customizable to meet the specific needs and interests of the participants, ensuring a truly memorable experience.

Included in the Narita Airport: Layover or Transit 4-hour Guided Tour are a private guided tour with an English-speaking guide, baggage storage fees , gratuities , and all necessary information provided by the guide.

Here are the inclusions of the tour:

• Private guided tour: Participants will have the privilege of exploring Narita with a knowledgeable guide who speaks English. The guide will provide insights into the local culture, history, and attractions , making the experience more enriching and enjoyable.
• Baggage storage fees: Travelers can rest easy knowing that their luggage will be taken care of during the tour. Baggage storage fees are included, allowing participants to move around freely without the burden of carrying their bags.
• Gratuities : Tips for the guide are also included in the tour package. This eliminates the need for participants to worry about additional expenses and ensures that the guide is properly compensated for their service.

Select Participants and Date

After reserving the Narita Airport: Layover or Transit 4-hour Guided Tour, participants can select their desired number of people and check availability for the preferred date of the tour. To book the tour, simply visit the website or contact the tour operator directly. The tour is available for individuals, couples , families , or small groups , allowing for a personalized experience.

Once the desired number of participants is selected, it’s important to check the availability for the preferred date of the tour. The tour operates on a regular basis, ensuring flexibility for travelers with different layover or transit schedules.

During the tour, participants can expect a knowledgeable English-speaking guide who’ll provide information about the local culture, nature, and people. The tour includes visits to Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, Naritasan Omotesando, and a Japanese cuisine experience. It’s a great way to make the most of your time at Narita Airport and explore the surrounding area.

Meeting Point and Directions

To locate the meeting point for the Narita Airport: Layover or Transit 4-hour Guided Tour, participants can find the guide near the Tourist Information Center in the Visitor Service Center area on the Arrival Level of the Central terminal building at Narita Airport Terminal 1. The guide will be wearing something orange for easy identification. Participants can also open Google Maps for directions to the meeting point.

Meeting Point and Directions:

• Near the Tourist Information Center in the Visitor Service Center area on the Arrival Level of Central terminal building, Narita Airport Terminal 1.
• Look for the guide wearing something orange for easy identification.
• Use Google Maps for directions to the meeting point.

Customer Reviews

Participants who’ve taken part in the Narita Airport: Layover or Transit 4-hour Guided Tour have left positive reviews about their experience. They’ve praised the guide’s knowledge and expertise, stating that the guide provided valuable insights into Japanese culture, history, and traditions.

Many participants have mentioned their favorite cultural sites visited during the tour, such as the Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, a thousand-year historical site, and the Naritasan Omotesando, a quaint, old-fashioned street.

Participants have also appreciated the guide’s additional activities, such as haiku writing and providing traditional pastries, which added to the overall enjoyment of the tour.

Product ID for Reference

the product ID for reference in relation to the Narita Airport: Layover or Transit 4-hour Guided Tour is 454435. This unique tour experience offers transit passengers at Narita Airport the opportunity to explore Japanese culture, nature, and people during their layover.

Here are three key features of the tour:

• Visit Naritasan Shinshoji Temple: Enjoy the rich history of this thousand-year-old temple, known for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere.
• Explore Naritasan Omotesando: Take a stroll along this charming, old-fashioned street lined with traditional shops and restaurants, offering a glimpse into Japan’s past.
• Enjoy a Japanese cuisine experience: Indulge in a culinary adventure that tantalizes both the eyes and the palate, sampling delicious local dishes prepared by skilled chefs.

With an English-speaking guide, customizable itineraries , and convenient meeting points, this guided tour ensures a memorable and insightful layover experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of the narita airport 4-hour guided tour.

The cost of the 4-hour guided tour at Narita Airport varies depending on the number of participants. Age restrictions may apply. It is recommended to check the availability and pricing details before making a reservation.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participating in the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for participating in the tour. However, it is important to note that there may be certain tour restrictions or activities that are not suitable for young children or individuals with mobility issues.

Is Transportation Included in the Tour?

Transportation is included in the Narita Airport: Layover or Transit 4-hour Guided Tour. The tour inclusions cover private guided transportation with an English-speaking guide, ensuring a seamless and informative experience for participants.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Specific Attractions or Activities?

The tour can be customized to include specific attractions or activities based on the traveler’s preferences. The guide will provide recommendations for attractions that align with the traveler’s interests and make the tour more enjoyable.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Charges That Participants Should Be Aware Of?

Participants should be aware that there are no additional fees or charges for the Narita Airport: Layover or Transit 4-hour Guided Tour. All necessary information will be provided by the guide.

To sum it up, the Narita Airport: Layover or Transit 4-hour Guided Tour is the perfect opportunity for travelers passing through Narita Airport to discover the rich culture and history of Japan.

With a customizable itinerary, participants can explore the beautiful Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, enjoy the local culture on Naritasan Omotesando, and indulge in authentic Japanese cuisine.

With flexibility and peace of mind, this tour ensures a memorable experience for transit passengers.

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• Area navigation
• Additional information
• Airport tours
• Passengers & Visitors
• At the airport
• Experience the airport

Experience the airport up close

Did you always want to know how the luggage finds its way into the cargo hold, how large jetliners are refuelled or how big the maintenance hangars have to be? Our airport tours put you right at the heart of the action. Munich Airport is a masterpiece of fine-tuned logistics. Our Airport Live tour will thrill the heart of any dyed-in-the-wool aviation buff. Please note that our airport tours are conducted in German.

Further information and booking

Airport live tour

• Can I book a tour for a group?  Can I purchase a voucher for an airport tour?
• Can I take my camera with me on the tour? How do I get to the Visitors Park? 
• How does the online booking work? Where is the meeting point?
• Why do participants in airport tours undergo passport checks? 

Impressionen rund um die Airport-Touren

Visitors service.

• Area Public area
• Street Nordallee 7
• Zip code / City 85356  München-Flughafen
• Telephone +49 89 975 413 33
• Email [email protected]
• Web www.munich-airport.de/besucherpark-90422

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Tante ju's, airport shop, observation deck.

Enjoy a perfect view of the airport apron and the runways.

Visitors Park

Get a close-up look at what's happening at the airport.

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Airport Tour Guide Jobs

Tour guides are located at some major airports and are responsible for organizing and leading educational tours of the airport for preschool children, various educational classes, or other interested groups.

Tour guides also visit schools to give presentations on airports and conduct seminars on airport issues. The tour guide department is responsible for a lot of public relations work for the airport. FYI – if tour guide jobs are of interest to you, then be sure to visit the JobMonkey Land Tours section.

Qualifications

Tour guides are mainly entry-level positions, although a high school diploma, and good customer service and speaking skills are usually necessary. Guides must be comfortable speaking to small and large audiences. Most of the training is provided by the employer and through on-the-job experience. Knowledge of a foreign language is also helpful, as is a general understanding of the workings of an airport. The best way to apply is to visit an airport’s tour office if they have one. Pay ranges from minimum wage to $14 per hour.

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How much should I tip when I travel?

Editor's Note

Even the most seasoned travelers may find tipping while traveling to be complicated and stressful.

After all, most of us want to thank the right people for great service and don't want to stiff underpaid employees who might be depending on gratuities. At the same time, we don't want to double-pay service charges already included in our bills or inadvertently insult someone in a foreign country.

So, who deserves a tip, and when and where should you give it? Also, how much should you tip?

Tipping customs vary based on your destination and what sort of travel you are doing. For hotels, tipping can depend on the room rate, the level of service and the details of your stay. (Did you refuse housekeeping for the duration of your trip? Or, did you trash the room with a massive all-night party?)

The COVID-19 pandemic also impacted the world of tipping. Housekeepers, for example, may have much more extensive cleaning regimens even though they might not touch your room during your stay. Also, short-staffed hotels may add more responsibilities for already overworked employees.

To help you decide how much you should tip during specific travel situations, from tours to hotels to all-inclusive vacations, here's what to know.

Tipping tour guides

Let's start with how much to tip tour guides. Not unlike when you dine at a restaurant, there's a general consensus to tip tour guides based on the level of service you receive.

For tour guides, we recommend tipping 10% to 20% of the overall tour's cost. Of course, you're always welcome (and encouraged) to tip more for exceptional service if you feel inclined.

Whom to tip at hotels

When many hotels eliminated housekeeping services during the COVID-19 pandemic, I got out of the habit of traveling with the cash I used to carry specifically for tipping housekeeping.

But if there's anyone within hotels you should tip, it's housekeeping. Many experts agree that you should tip housekeeping $3 to $5 per day, depending on the length of your stay, your room rate and the level of service.

"These are the hardest-working people in the hotel and the least recognized," Tom Waithe, general manager of the Alexis Hotel Seattle, previously told TPG.

You should, however, be on the lookout for hidden housekeeping fees that some hotels have been adding to room charges — sometimes up to $40 per day. In these cases, a gratuity is not expected, though it's still possible that those hotels are not sharing these fees with staff.

A rule of thumb states that luggage attendants who help you with your bags at hotels (and airports) should receive $1 to $5 per bag. Round up for large groups of bags or if the attendant must take multiple trips or handle fragile or special-request items.

For car valets, a couple of dollars is typically appropriate; you may want to tip more if the valet delivers on a rush request. If you're staying at a hotel for a while and expect to use your car often, start the valet out with a larger tip of about $10 dollars, and explain your situation. You'll likely get your car parked closer and delivered ahead of other people's cars daily.

Butlers and concierges, especially at luxury hotels, should also be tipped an amount determined by what services they've delivered for you. Tipping the head door person at a hotel can also be a way to get improved service during a longer visit.

Who doesn't need a tip at a hotel, then? The people delivering room service meals where a (usually hefty) service charge has already been added to the tab do not necessitate a tip. Of course, you can still feel free to tip them. In the rare cases when gratuity isn't included or if you've asked the staff for some out-of-the-ordinary services, those circumstances would warrant tipping.

Related: Innovations in hotel stays: How to give guests the next-level experience

Tipping around the world

If you've ever traveled outside the U.S., you may have received mixed messages about tipping or confused faces from non-Americans when discussing tipping culture in this country.

In some countries — such as Australia, Japan and China — tipping is not common. It's actually frowned upon in Japan.

"Tipping abroad is so much more than converting currencies. Many countries and cultures each adopt their own nuanced take on this, at times, delicate matter," Tom Marchant, co-founder of the luxury travel company Black Tomato, told TPG. In Australia, where tipping is "not a common transaction," it can even make recipients a bit uncomfortable.

Otherwise, you should distribute tips as you do in the U.S. when visiting most of Europe, touristy areas of Mexico, the Caribbean (excluding all-inclusive resorts ) and Canada. Tipping is also customary in India and the Middle East.

In Central and South America, leaving small amounts of change in the local currency is greatly appreciated. If you're traveling to Africa, expect more intricacies, depending on whether or not you're on safari or staying at an urban property in a major city.

If you're unsure what's customary in a specific destination, feel free to ask around or err on the side of being overly generous.

Related: The ultimate guide to tipping in Europe

When to tip on an all-inclusive vacation

Speaking of all-inclusive resorts, know that daily service charges are typically included in your bill if you're on a cruise or staying at an all-inclusive resort. However, be sure to double-check your folio carefully or inquire with the front desk upon check-in. Also, be sure to verify what's included in a property's resort fees, even for non-inclusive properties.

According to Lindsey Epperly Sulek — founder of Jetset World Travel and a Caribbean travel expert — most traditional all-inclusive resorts, like Sandals in the Caribbean, include gratuity.

If gratuities are not included, you can follow the previously mentioned hotel guidelines : $1 to $5 per bag for the bellhop, $5 per day for housekeeping (left every day), nothing extra for room service (if included on the bill) and a sliding scale for concierges, depending on the task's difficulty.

If you're taking a tour from an all-inclusive resort — such as for a safari — tip your guides and the driver.

Related: The 17 best all-inclusive resorts in the US for a spectacular vacation

Tipping staff during a cruise

Whether they're called service charges or gratuities, the automatic fees cruise lines charge daily to passengers' onboard accounts — sometimes as much as $25.50 per person, per day — are designed to replace cash tipping. It's a policy that was put in place so cruisers won't feel obligated to tip or worry about when and where to present gratuities.

In addition to passenger-facing crew members, such as waitstaff and cabin stewards, many other crew members see a portion of service fees. This includes people who wash dishes and work in cruise ship laundry rooms. You can pay these fees in advance or have them added to your onboard bill. You can adjust the gratuity amount up or down by visiting the guest services desk during your sailing.

If you want to provide an extra boost to a crew member who has gone above and beyond, mention them in your post-cruise survey so they can receive higher-level recognition. This is something that could come with more long-term benefits than a tip.

If you find yourself on a sailing that doesn't charge daily gratuities or you want to tip extra for stellar service, be sure to bring cash. There might also be a tip box by the reception desk.

Have a favorite bartender or waiter on your sailing? An extra gratuity paid early during your trip will go a long way to ensure that above-average service continues throughout your vacation. Keep in mind that most cruise bar purchases and spa treatments automatically include gratuities ranging from about 15% to 18%. There's no need to tip extra unless you want to.

Related: Can I remove prepaid gratuities on a cruise?

Tipping flight attendants and airport employees

Generally, airline employees like flight attendants are not allowed to accept any tips on the job. However, airport staff members are permitted to do so.

One notable exception is Frontier Airlines, which has an inflight tipping program.

Airline employee unions have fought against allowing flight attendants to accept tips, which may seem counterintuitive. However, labor laws allow employers to pay sub-minimum wages if the employees are assumed to be receiving gratuities on a regular basis. Don't be insulted if flight attendants refuse your tip offers — they're doing so to protect their salaries.

Many airlines provide ways passengers can recognize services provided by flight attendants and other employees. For example, Southwest Airlines has its Commend an Employee program that lets you leave positive comments online. This may have a more positive impact than the dollar tip you offered for your gin and tonic.

Should you want to show your appreciation for a particularly friendly or helpful flight attendant, note that gifts such as snacks or coffee shop gift cards are OK.

Bottom line

Tipping is often customary when traveling, depending on where you go, what service you receive and the level of service provided.

Bookmark this guide for your next international trip.

Related reading:

• 8 lessons I learned from my 1st all-inclusive vacation
• 10 times you do not need to tip on a cruise
• Mobile tipping comes to hotels: Will housekeepers really benefit
• We asked a flight attendant for their top insider tips on flying like a pro

An Easy Travel Guide to Rome, Italy

V isiting the Eternal City for the first time? Rome is one of the most visited cities in Italy and we created an easy travel guide to Rome so that you know the best things to see and do.

In this post, we’re sharing all we’ve learned from our vacations in Rome to help you plan your getaway. We’ll cover the most popular neighborhoods, the best things to see and do, how to get around in Rome, the best time of the year to visit, how to get to central Rome from FCO Airport, and tips for traveling.

Where is Rome

Rome is located in the region of Lazio, near the and is undoubtedly one of the most popular destinations in Italy. It has the highest population of all cities in Italy and sits about 1 hour from the western coast.

And when it comes to tourism, it’s no surprise that visitors from around the globe travel to Rome to see its beauty and Renaissance art, experience Roman cuisine and Italian cooking , shop the fashion capital, discover the piazzas and fountains, explore the historical landmarks, or even practice Italian phrases that they’ve learned.

The various neighborhoods are the most widely visited by tourists because they are where most attractions can be found. Traveling through the city is easy on foot, but you should also consider the Rome sightseeing bus or the Rome golf cart tours .

The Best Time of Year to Visit Rome

Rome can be extremely uncomfortable in the summer months (primarily June through September). In April and May, the spring temperatures are nice, the mornings are cool, and by noon you probably won’t need a jacket.

The Best Things to See and Do (by Neighborhood)

Each neighborhood of Rome has museums, churches, gardens, parks, and iconic spots to visit. This list gives a brief description of each district, and helps you understand what to see in each neighborhood. It will come in handy for deciding where to stay in Rome while planning your trip.

You may need to take public transportation to reach a specific neighborhood depending on where you stay. However, once you arrive, the area is completely walkable and getting from one point of interest to another is easy.

Modern Center

This neighborhood is located around Via Veneto and the Spanish Steps, the Modern Center neighborhood combines classic and contemporary influences. It has a mix of upscale boutiques, trendy cafes, and luxurious hotels, making it a hub for shopping, dining, and experiencing the modern side of Rome.

Palazzo del Quirinale

Complesso delle Quattro Fontane

Trevi Fountain

Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Antica a Pallazo

Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri

Castro Pretorio

Chiesa di Santa Maria della Vittoria

Museo e Cripto dei Frati Cappuccini

The heart of Rome’s historic center, the Old Rome neighborhood captivates with its cobblestone streets, charming piazzas, and awe-inspiring landmarks like the Pantheon and Piazza Navona.

Scalinta di Trinita dei Monti (Spanish Steps)

Museo dell’Ara Pacis

Campo de’ Fiori

Palazza Farnese

Piazza Navona

Museo di Roma Palazzo Braschi

Chiesa di San Luigi dei Francesi

Chiesa di Sant’Agnese in Agone

By far this is the most popular neighborhood in Rome for travelers. Trastevere is a bohemian neighborhood located on the west bank of the Tiber River. It is known for it narrow, winding streets, nightlife, and charming piazzas. Trastevere has a lively atmosphere with trendy bars, and traditional trattorias.

Villa Farnesina

Galleria Corsini

Basilica di Santa Maria

Orto Botanico

Home to the iconic Colosseum, the Colosseum neighborhood in Rome immerses visitors in ancient history as they explore the grandeur of the Roman Empire, marvel at ancient ruins, and soak in the architectural splendor of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Roman Forum

Palatine Hill

Bocca della Verita

Circo Massimo

Piazza Venezia

Altare della Patria

Aventino – Tastaccio

Testaccio is a historic working-class neighborhood that has transformed into a culinary hotspot. It offers a vibrant food scene with traditional trattorias, gourmet restaurants, and a bustling food market.

Basilicia di San Giovanni

Terme di Caracalla

Knights of Malta Keyhole

Esquilino – San Giovanni

Located near Termini Station, the Esquilino neighborhood is a melting pot of cultures and flavors. Known for its diverse immigrant communities, Esquilino is a mix of ethnic restaurants, colorful markets, and architectural gems like the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore.

Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore

Palazzo Massimo alle Terme

Museo Nazionale Romano

Basilica di San Pietro in Vincole

Nomentano combines residential tranquility with commercial areas. This neighborhood is characterized by its leafy parks, elegant villas, and the iconic University La Sapienza. There is a mix of students, locals, and dining. Nomentano has a relaxed and intellectual atmosphere.

Sapienza University

North Center

The North Center neighborhood of Rome, encompassing areas like Villa Borghese and Parioli, presents a more tranquil and residential atmosphere. With its leafy parks, elegant villas, and cultural institutions like the Galleria Borghese, this area provides a peaceful retreat from the city center.

• Museo e Galleria Borghese
• Villa Borghese
• La Galleria Nazionale
• Museo Nazionale Etrusce di Villa Guilia

Vatican City

Vatican City is the smallest independent state in the world and the spiritual center of Catholicism. Home to St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel, this iconic neighborhood offers a rich blend of religious significance, magnificent art, and awe-inspiring architecture.

St. Peter’s Basilica

Vatican Gardens

Vatican Museums

Castel Sant’Angelo

Southern Rome

The southern part of Rome is less touristy and has an authentic atmosphere that portrays a taste of local Roman life. From food markets and traditional trattorias to vibrant street art and a strong sense of community, Southern Rome provides a glimpse into the city’s everyday charm.

Via Appia Antica

Catacombe di San Sebastiano

Catacombe di San Callisto

Museo Capitoline Centrale Montemartini

How to Get Around Rome

Getting around the cobbled-stoned streets of Rome is not hard. I’ve walked, biked, and bused throughout Rome and loved it! All are great ways to get around and the method you choose depends on how much time you have and your personal preference.

I recommend the  Big Bus Tour  or a Golf Cart Tour in Rome if you are short on time or if you booked your travel in the dead heat of summer (which can be intensely hot).

With these tours, you’ll see all the top Rome attractions with audio commentary in your language of choice. If you choose an open top tour bus, the added benefit is free wi-fi and for 3 extra euros, you can use your ticket for two days (it is worth it).

When it comes to seeing Rome, walking can not be avoided especially when getting to an attraction that require climbing hilly pathways or navigating ancient streets. In my opinion, being on foot is one of the best ways to travel in Rome.

Exploring the narrow streets can lead you to the most marvelous pasta, the creamiest gelato, or the most perfect pasta! I highly recommend visiting the Trastevere neighborhood for  Italian street food . 

Public Transportation

This is the best option for getting to a part of town that is more than 20 minutes on foot, especially if visiting a museum or park. Save your energy and use public transportation for less than 2 euros. You can purchase them at the tobacconist store.

You will need to validate your ticket upon boarding the bus (it’s an honor system). Getting caught with an un-validated ticket can result in a fine. You should also use a really good map of Rome. 

Bike or Vespa

Peddling around the city on your own time feels so liberating. Bike rental is very affordable and is an enjoyable way to experience the outdoors, get some exercise to make up for all the  Italian breakfasts  that you eat, and explore Rome.

You can find rentals for as little as 13 euros for 24 hours, complete with lock, for a standard bike. The price for e-bikes is higher.

Getting around on a two-passenger scooter is loads of fun!  Rent a Vespa to skirt traffic or explore outside the city. They can be rented by the hour or day. This will make your trip to Rome memorable as you travel in true Italian style!

How to Get to Central Rome from FCO Airport

There are several options to get from Leonardo da Vinci International Airport to the center of the city. I found the train to be the quickest and most affordable especially if you’ve had a long day of travel and want to get to Termini station.  

The most economical way to get from the airport to the city center is via a shuttle bus service from the airport. You can travel conveniently between Rome’s city center and the airport and take pleasure in a stress-free arrival or departure from the city.

The ride takes about 50 minutes and departures run from the airport every 30 to 40 minutes so you have time to collect your luggage. Shuttles stop in Terminal 3’s arrivals section. Look for the respective service at the arrival platform.

Terravision offers a shuttle service for less than 8 euros it’s quite popular. The buses are air-conditioned and there is no cost to bring your luggage aboard. It goes directly to Termini station with no extra stops. 

Another option is the public transportation system, which costs about 6 euros. The bus stops multiple times in the city center, including one close to the Vatican and one at Termini Station, throughout the 45- to 1-hour one-way trip.

Buses halt in Terminal 3’s arrivals section, at number 14. You can purchase tickets at the airport desk or online. 

A taxi is quite expensive. It will set you back almost 50 euros and the ride takes just as long as a shuttle service (about 50 minutes). You can find the taxis at the arrival level of Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.

The Leonardo Express train is less than 20 euros and runs every 15 minutes during peak periods. It is operated by Trenitalia and the ride takes about 30 to 40 minutes.

If you wait to collect your luggage, and then make your way to the window or kiosk to purchase your ticket, note that many others will be doing the same. Hate long lines? You can purchase tickets in advance and be ready for validation after boarding the train.

I can’t recommend a car rental unless you plan a day trip and need a set of wheels. Rome is completely walkable. Not to mention, even Italians know that finding a parking space can be a hassle.

Tips for Visiting Rome

I adore visiting Italy. And no trip would be complete without seeing some of the most iconic and historic spots in the Eternal City.

Don’t make the mistake (that I made on my first trip) and skip these incredible spots! Fortunately, I was able to see them on return visits!

Whether you are visiting the Vatican for the first time or returning because you tossed a coin into the Trevi fountain, these Rome travel tips will come in handy to make your stay enjoyable.

• Be prepared! Read these tips on the essentials for an international flight .
• Think comfort when flying coach , it will help you stay calm and confident.
• Beware of scammers, pickpockets, and panhandlers. It’s a thing in Europe and it can happen when you least expect it. 

So, what are you waiting for? Book that flight to Rome and thank me later.

Flying On The Busiest July Fourth Travel Day? Here’s How To Sail Through Unscathed.

The TSA expects Friday to break the record for air passenger screening in a single day. Here’s how to keep your cool and get through the airport quickly.

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Air passengers line up for TSA security screenings at Denver International Airport last week. (Photo by Robert Alexander)

T he Transportation Security Administration (TSA) expects Friday to break the record for the number of passengers screened at airports in a single day. The agency expects to screen more than 3 million people on June 28, which it says will be the peak travel day for this summer’s Fourth of July travel period.

In terms of air traveler volume, this summer is already shaping up to be a doozy. Since mid-May, the TSA has seen multiple days break into the top 10 busiest days in the agency’s 22-year history.

On a typical day, TSA officers screen roughly 2.5 million people nationwide. But over the past month, airport security has seen that number exceeded by several hundred thousand travelers per day. On the most recent two Fridays, for example, the agency screened nearly 2.8 million passengers on each of those days.

Among major U.S. airports, Philadelphia ranks as the 21st busiest in the country. There, the TSA screens about 33,400 people per day, but since Memorial Day Weekend, closer to 40,000 people are coming through the security checkpoints. “We expect to screen 8.3% more individuals at our checkpoints this summer compared to last summer,” said Gerardo Spero, TSA’s Federal Security Director at Philadelphia International Airport. “Travel volume expected out of Philadelphia is expected to be high. We ready to handle this summer’s increased travel volumes as we approach the July 4th holiday.”

Do get to the airport two hours ahead of departure.

Airports are going to be crowded, obviously, which means longer lines at check-in and airport security. “The best advice that I can offer is to get to the airport well before your ticketed departure time,” Spero said.

Do prepare for airport security.

Nobody wants to be the person holding up the airport security line. “Travelers can save time by removing items from their pockets and placing them in a carry-on bag, instead of putting items directly into bins at the conveyor belt,” Spero said.

Don’t pack prohibited items in carry-on bags.

Packing prohibited items slow the line because TSA officers will need to open and inspect your bag to determine what triggered the alarm. Before you get to the airport security checkpoint, check TSA’s “What Can I Bring?” tool to know what is prohibited. Move prohibited items to checked baggage or risk getting them confiscated.

For example, are you heading to the beach? Consider how you pack the sunscreen. Large bottles and tubes (over 3.4 ounces) of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes must be packed in a checked bag. Carry-on bags are limited to one quart-size bag containing small containers 3.4 ounces or less.

Last year, TSA officers at At Philadelphia airport, officers stopped 45 guns from being carried onto planes by passengers, breaking the previous year’s record of 44 guns caught. Firearms are never prohibited to pass through security checkpoints, even if a passenger has a concealed carry permit or is in a constitutional carry jurisdiction. Passengers are only allowed to travel with an unloaded firearm if it is packed in a locked, hard-sided case in their checked baggage and declared to the airline at check-in.

When TSA officers find a firearm in a carry-on bag, they will contact local law enforcement to unload and take possession the gun. TSA may impose a civil penalty up to $15,000 when weapons are intercepted, and passengers will lose TSA PreCheck eligibility. Local enforcement may also arrest or cite the passenger, depending on local law.

Do prepare for delays.

As of Friday at 11 am, more than 1,600 flights are delayed. That number will rise throughout the day, according to FlightAware , a free app that provides real-time, historical, and predictive flight tracking data. (More than 8,300 flights were delayed in each of the past three days.)

Flight delays escalate throughout the day because of how airlines reuse planes and crews for multiple trips during the day, creating a domino effect. A late-morning flight delay in Charlotte, for example, can prevent a plane from getting to Chicago for an early-afternoon departure, which can in turn bump back the same plane’s late-afternoon flight out of Houston.

FlightAware can tell you if your plane is on schedule or give you an early heads-up that a problem is afoot. Enter your flight information , and then click the “Where is my plane now?” link just under the flight number. If your plane is behind schedule, you can take action accordingly. FlightAware also lets you sign up for alerts to be sent via email or text if there are changes associated with your flight. You can search by flight number or city pairing.

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The Best Places to Eat in Singapore's Changi Airport

By Audrey Phoon

This article is part of our airport food survival guide , which includes tips and tricks—even a hot take or two—that challenge the notion that airport meals are always dull, overpriced, and tasteless.

Changi Airport is many things: super-efficient aviation hub, surreal tropical garden, shopping haven. But for locals, it will first and foremost always be a sprawling celebration of food. This is where we load up on chicken rice and kopi (robust local coffee) before a trip; where we get our fix of bak chor mee (springy minced meat noodles tossed in mouth-puckering, piquant gravy) or kaya toast when we land; where we meet for meals even when we don’t have a flight to catch.

With nearly 200 dining outlets dotted across four terminals and the iconic glass-domed mall called Jewel, Changi is one airport where the challenge lies not in scoring a decent meal, but deciding where to eat. To save you the legwork, here’s our guide to the best restaurants and where to eat in Changi Airport.

Longer indulgences at Changi Airport

Local celebrity chef Violet Oon ’s elegant eponymous temple to Peranakan cuisine in Singapore ’s National Gallery is a fixture in most travel guides, but her charming branch on Jewel ’s first floor is a convenient alternative for travelers. Must-orders include the dry laksa (a spiced noodle dish), and the complex chicken buah keluak made with an Indigenous lethal nut that’s detoxed before cooking. Meanwhile, the lively vibes and sharing portions at Jumbo Seafood (L3 Jewel) are great for larger groups. This is where you’ll find authentic chili crab, one of Singapore’s national dishes, with lashings of gravy best mopped up with fluffy mantou buns.

For a different communal-style meal, head to Beauty In The Pot (B2 Jewel), where giant hot pots brimming with savory and spicy soups are served to share. The restaurant is open until 3 a.m. daily, making this a convenient choice for those with flights at inconvenient hours. Come the third quarter of 2024, the refined Imperial Treasure Super Peking Duck will open a new outlet on the first floor of Jewel, offering its trademark Peking duck pancakes alongside elevated Cantonese dishes.

Casual sit-down meals at Changi Airport

Local café chain PS Cafe is famous for its decadent cakes and shoestring truffle fries showered in shaved parmesan, but its Art Deco-themed space on the second floor of Jewel comes with an added treat: A view of the mall’s dramatic Rain Vortex waterfall (ask for a table at the back for prime viewing). Down in Basement 2, Hainan Story is a multi-concept eatery offering traditional and modern Hainanese cuisine from different brands under one roof. The menu features everything from noodles to Western plates (many early Hainanese immigrants to Singapore served as chefs to the British during colonial rule), but the thing to order here is the chicken rice, a recipe from one of Singapore’s most storied shops.

Another popular name with a Changi Airport branch is Swee Choon , whose flagship store in the grungy Jalan Besar neighborhood is a hotspot for celebrities seeking a late-night dim sum supper. While its polished Terminal 2 outlet lacks the gritty character of the main restaurant, it’s open round the clock, and many of Swee Choon’s bestselling items—like its mee suah kueh , a crispy noodle cake with shrimp—are available here.

Ten-minute bites at Changi Airport

No matter what hour it is, you can sample Singapore’s celebrated hawker fare at Singapore Food Street in the transit area of Terminal 3. This 24-hour food court is packed with popular stalls like Tai Wah Pork Noodle , where the zingy, vinegary noodles are a great perk-me-up, and Rong Cheng Bak Kut Teh , whose herbal pork broth makes for a comforting post-flight meal.

Over in T2, a visit to Ya Kun is a must for that quintessentially Singaporean all-day breakfast of kaya toast and rich, sweet coffee. Crave , a modern off-spin of one of the country’s most well-known nasi lemak stalls, is also worth seeking out for its star dish: bento boxes of aromatic coconut rice piled with your pick of toppings, like crispy whitebait or fried chicken. For a grab-and-go snack, drop by curry puff institution Old Chang Kee (in the transit areas of T2, 3, and 4) for its chunky chicken-and-potato-filled pastry parcels, or follow the queues at Jewel to the trendy Birds of Paradise ice cream parlor, where delicate botanical flavors like white chrysanthemum or lychee raspberry are dolloped onto fragrant, thyme-infused cones.

Best food gifts you can buy at Changi Airport

You can’t leave food-obsessed Singapore without bringing a few edible treats home, and Changi Airport is a one-stop-shop for some of the country’s most beloved food products. Top on many travelers’ lists is snack store Irvins , which has five locations across the airport. The bestsellers here are the packs of potato chips and crispy fish skin sprinkled with salted egg and curry leaves, which come with the very real warning that they are ‘dangerously addictive.’

For the sweet-toothed, there are pillowy roll cakes from Rich & Good on the first level of Jewel. They melt in the mouth, but when armored in their pastel pink boxes, are tough enough to survive a flight. While the coconut-laced kaya version is a crowd favorite, more adventurous foodies may want to try the pungent durian flavor (just make sure you keep it sealed in-flight). And at nearby Indonesian-style traditional bakery Bengawan Solo , a familiar sight in many local neighborhoods, you won’t go wrong with a tub of crunchy prawn rolls or pineapple tarts—tasty bites that will remind you of your travels well after you’ve stepped off the plane.

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