Fast food. Metal benches. And terminal boredom.
Let’s be honest: long layovers are tough.
If you’re traveling economy, that is. If you’re traveling business class or first class, it’s a different story. With access to the world’s most luxurious airport lounges, you may even consider extending the wait between your first and second flights.
The seats are plush, the Champagne is flush and the only thing terminal is the death of bad coffee.
Got a couple of emails to catch up on? The most luxurious airport lounges are equipped with CEO-approved business rooms. In dire need of sleep and a shower? Tranquil private rooms are the ordre du jour. Feeling hungry? Just ask the Michelin-star chef to whip up his signature.
Depending on how long you intend to stay (we’ll understand if you voluntarily miss your flight), you may have time for a soul-stirring spa treatment. And if you just can’t sit still for a second longer, golf simulators, live cooking stations, and wellness gyms are the perfect way to prepare for takeoff.
Here are the 11 most luxurious airport lounges in the world. They’ll leave you feeling replenished and runway-ready.
Why you can trust Luxe Digital? Many of us are digital nomads or expats. As travel enthusiasts and frequent flyers ourselves, we know a thing or two about luxury travel (Hint, hint: journey through our sister site Luxa Terra for luxury travel inspiration).
In order to rank the most luxurious airport lounges, we looked at how exclusive they are and the price of a day pass, if available. We judged the interior design, quality of the food, and the amenities available to determine how they elevate our airport experience.
For more on how we evaluate products and experiences learn about our HAPPY philosophy.
The 11 most luxurious airport lounges in the world
Qatar Airways Al Safwa First Lounge, Hamad International Airport (Qatar)
Qatar Airways’ Al Safwa First Lounge at Hamad International Airport is designed to resemble a museum more than a traditional airport lounge.
With soaring ceilings, expansive spaces, and curated art pieces, the grandeur of the lounge is designed to make us forget where we are altogether. It also offers private bedrooms, spa facilities, an extensive library, silent water features, and fine dining with an à la carte menu.
The Al Safwa First Lounge is the best way to spend a layover in Qatar—if you’re flying first class that is.
Best for: Using the world’s famous museums as muse.
How to access: Accessible to Qatar Airways and Oneworld first-class passengers. Those traveling in business class can access it for a fee, subject to capacity. Alternatively, Qatar Airways Privilege Club Platinum members can enjoy complimentary access.
Qatar Airways Al Mourjan Lounge The Garden, Hamad International Airport (Qatar)
If there’s one way to ground ourselves before we take off, it’s the lush indoor garden inside Qatar Airways’ Al Mourjan Lounge. Located in Hamad International Airport, the green environment is an oasis of luxury, even more so appreciated in between long flights.
The serene environment boasts opulent water features, upscale dining options, and private family rooms. Notably, the business center and quiet rooms provide the perfect space to catch up on emails and sleep. While the elegant interior and spacious seating areas allow us to reset and recenter before jumping on the next jet.
Best for: Grounding ourselves in greenery before take off.
How to access: Available to Qatar Airways and Oneworld business class passengers. Qatar Airways Privilege Club Gold and Platinum members can also access.
Emirates First Class Lounge, Dubai International Airport (United Arab Emirates)
The Emirates First Class Lounge is all about flying high. Located in the Dubai International Airport—one of the world’s biggest and busiest airports—the luxury lounge features gourmet dining with a global menu, a Moët & Chandon champagne bar, and a Timeless Spa offering complimentary treatments.
For wine enthusiasts, there’s a dedicated sommelier service. The lounge also boasts luxury shower spas, a cigar lounge, and a tranquil relaxation area.
Exclusively available to Emirates First Class passengers and Skywards Platinum members, this is a sanctuary of endless opulence and unlimited luxury.
Best for: Sheikh-worthy extravagance.
How to access: Exclusive to Emirates First Class passengers and Emirates Skywards Platinum members.
Etihad Airways First Class Lounge & Spa, Abu Dhabi International Airport (United Arab Emirates)
Reminiscent of indulgent Arabian nights, Etihad Airways’ First Class Lounge & Spa at Abu Dhabi International Airport combines traditional elegance with contemporary design. The interior exudes a warm, inviting ambiance with its rich textures and serene color palette.
Unique to this experience is the Six Senses Spa offering complimentary treatments. The lounge also features a stylish cigar lounge, a fitness room, and a fine dining restaurant with a world-class chef. Children can enjoy the dedicated playroom, making it a family-friendly affair. And for wine connoisseurs, there’s an exclusive cellar and A-list-worthy bar.
Best for: Arabic allure.
How to access: This lounge is accessible to Etihad Airways First Class passengers and Etihad Guest Platinum members. Additionally, those traveling in Business Class can access it for a fee, subject to availability.
Singapore Airlines Private Room Lounge, Changi Airport (Singapore)
The Singapore Airlines Private Room Lounge at Changi Airport is the epitome of exclusivity and understated elegance. The interior mood is sophisticated and tranquil, featuring plush furnishings and a neutral, soothing color palette.
Unique to this lounge is its unparalleled privacy, offering an intimate, almost bespoke service. Guests can indulge in gourmet dining with personalized table service, and a fine selection of wines and champagnes. The quiet slumber rooms and luxurious shower suites allow for a moment of rest and rejuvenation.
A private room within the already luxurious SilverKris Lounge, it offers an elevated experience for the most discerning travelers.
Best for: Haven of peace and calm.
How to access: This exclusive space is reserved for Singapore Airlines Suites and First Class passengers.
Turkish Airlines Lounge Business, Istanbul International Airport (Turkey)
The Turkish Airlines Lounge Business blends modern luxuries with cultural influences. Reflecting a fusion of traditional Turkish elements and contemporary accents, the interior is vibrant yet calm.
Located in the Istanbul International Airport, the luxury lounge stands out as one of the most extravagant airport experiences. Featuring a live cooking station, a cinema and a golf simulator, there’s plenty of entertainment to pass the time. While comfortable sleeping areas, private shower suites, and a spacious business area make us feel at home.
Additionally, the Turkish Airlines lounge showcases local art, adding a unique cultural touch to your layover.
Best for: Keeping us entertained.
How to access: Available to Turkish Airlines and Star Alliance business class passengers. Elite and Elite Plus members of the Miles&Smiles program also enjoy access, making it a preferred choice for frequent business travelers.
Oman Air First Class Lounge, Muscat International (Oman)
Located in the Muscat International Airport, the gold-cloaked Oman Air First Class Lounge exudes an aura of Omani heritage blended with modern comforts. The interior is adorned with traditional Omani motifs and gold accents, creating an atmosphere of extravagant elegance.
While the lounge appears overstimulating at first glance, the atmosphere is surprisingly tranquil. The serene setting is complemented by high-end amenities such as private suites, a fine dining area serving exquisite cuisine, and a spa offering world-class treatments.
The Oman Air Lounge also features a cigar lounge, a business center, and a dedicated kids’ room to entertain the little ones.
Best for: A taste of Omani opulence.
How to access: Exclusive to Oman Air first-class passengers, as well as Sindbad Gold and Silver members.
Air France La Première Lounge, Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (France)
Exhibiting a certain je ne sais quoi, the Air France La Première Lounge is one of the most luxurious airports in the world. Modeled after the hush-hush glamor of old-school Paris, the mood is one of refined sophistication, adorned with rich red fabrics. While avant-garde touches invite you to relax and replenish.
One of the key distinguishing features of the luxury lounge is the Biologique Recherche spa, renowned for its effective, soul-stirring treatments. Spa aside, guests can also indulge in gourmet cuisine prepared by Michelin-starred chefs, enjoy the private suites, and experience a dedicated concierge service. The ambiance is further enhanced by a curated selection of fine champagnes and wines.
This is one way to make the most of Paris without ever leaving the airport.
Best for: Pampering yourself in Paris.
How to access: This exclusive lounge is accessible to Air France La Première (First Class) passengers. Elite Plus members of the SkyTeam alliance also enjoy access.
Cathay Pacific The Pier First Class Lounge, Hong Kong International Airport (China)
The Cathay Pacific The Pier First Class Lounge at Hong Kong International Airport hits the elusive sweet spot between natural tranquility and modern luxury. The interior features warm, earthy tones, lots of indoor plants, and rich wooden textures, creating a soothing and inviting atmosphere.
But it’s also equipped with high-end amenities. The Day Suites area allows for moments of privacy and relaxation. The Retreat offers foot massages and cabanas with showers. The tranquil Tea House is one way to forget a tumultuous journey. While the à la carte restaurant caters to the most discerning individuals with its fine dining menu.
Best for: Soul-stirring tranquility.
How to access: Accessible to first-class passengers of Cathay Pacific and other Oneworld airlines. Top-tier members of the Marco Polo Club, as well as Oneworld Emerald members, can also experience this serene sanctuary.
Swiss First Class Lounge at Terminal E, Zurich International Airport (Switzerland)
Located in Terminal E of the Zurich International Airport, the Swiss First Class Lounge is a bastion of modern minimalism and Swiss sophistication. The interior is characterized by sleek, contemporary designs, featuring clean lines and a natural color palette. While avant-garde lighting and textures reflect its prestigious exclusivity.
Unique features include a gourmet restaurant serving exquisite local and international cuisine, private mini-suites with showers, and a terrace with breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps. The lounge also offers a whisky bar boasting an impressive selection of spirits.
Best for: The pinnacle of meticulous Swiss sophistication.
How to access: The lounge is exclusively available to SWISS and Lufthansa First Class passengers, as well as HON Circle Members.
Lufthansa First Class Terminal, Frankfurt International Airport (Germany)
The Lufthansa First Class Terminal at Frankfurt International Airport is the epitome of German luxury and efficiency. The mood is one of exclusive sophistication, featuring sleek interiors and contemporary designs, accented with delicate touches like pink cherry blossom trees.
An entire terminal dedicated to first-class luxury, the lounge stands out for its unparalleled personal service, including a private security screening and a personal assistant to escort guests to their flights.
The terminal features high-end amenities like private office units, luxury shower rooms, and a Cigar Lounge. Guests can enjoy gourmet dining and a vast selection of wines and spirits at the bar. The unique car service directly to the aircraft adds an extra touch of opulence.
Best for: Feeling like the guest of honor.
How to access: This unique terminal is accessible to Lufthansa First Class passengers and HON Circle Members.
Frequently asked questions about luxury airport lounges
Access to the best airport lounges is generally restricted. They’re typically only available to passengers traveling in first class or business class, or those holding elite status with specific airlines. Some lounges offer paid entry or access through certain credit cards or day passes, but this varies by airline and lounge.
To access luxury airport lounges, you can fly in premium cabins (first class or business class), use elite status or memberships with airlines, leverage certain credit cards offering lounge access, or use Priority Pass memberships. Some lounges also sell day passes or offer annual lounge passes for frequent travelers.
Depending on the lounge, you may be able to access Business Class airport lounges with an Economy Class ticket. This can be done through certain credit card benefits, purchasing a day pass, holding elite status with an airline’s frequent flier program, or through lounge access programs like Priority Pass. However, the best airport lounges are typically only available to First Class passengers.
Buying airport lounge access can be worth it for longer layovers, business travel, or if you simply desire comfort and amenities like private rooms, entertainment, gourmet food and showers. It ultimately depends on your travel style, budget, and the quality of the lounge.
