How to Find Flights with Layovers in Certain Cities?

Are you planning a trip and interested in adding a layover in a certain city along the way? Discover essential tips and tricks to uncover the best opportunities how to explore more for free.

Flight comparison websites are invaluable when searching for flights with layovers in cities of your choice. Tools such as Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak provide specialized filters to tailor your search to include specific layover locations.

Skyscanner

1. Visit Skyscanner: Open Skyscanner in your web browser.
2. Choose ‘Multi-city’: At the top of the Skyscanner homepage, find and select the ‘Multi-city’ option.
3. Input Your Itinerary: Enter your starting point, the layover city as your first destination, and then your final destination. If you’re returning to the original city, add another leg to complete the round trip.
4. Select Dates: Pick the dates for each flight segment, considering how long you want to stay in your layover city.
5. Search: Hit the search button to find flights. Skyscanner will compile a list of flights that match your multi-city criteria.

Example: If you are flying from New York to Paris but you also want to visit Hamburg.

Kayak

1. Navigate to Kayak: Open your browser and go to Kayak.
2. Opt for ‘Multi-City’: On Kayak’s flight search section, select the ‘Multi-city’ option, which allows you to input several flight legs.
3. Enter Flight Information: Fill in your departure city, the layover city as the first destination, and then your ultimate destination. If your trip is round-trip, add the return legs accordingly.
4. Choose Dates: Determine and input the dates for each segment of your journey, allocating time for your layover as desired.
5. Begin Search: Click the search button to see available flight options that include your specified layover city.

Example: If you are flying from New York to Paris but you also want to visit Hamburg and Vienna.

Google Flights

1. Go to Google Flights: Open your web browser and navigate to Google Flights.
2. Select ‘Multi-city’: On the Google Flights homepage, you’ll see options for round-trip, one-way, and multi-city. Click on ‘Multi-city’.
3. Enter Flight Details: Start by entering your departure city in the first box. For your destination, enter the city where you want your layover.
4. Add Another Flight: Click on ‘Add another flight’. For this next flight, enter the layover city as your departure and your final destination in the destination field.
5. Adjust Dates: Choose your preferred dates for each leg of the journey. Remember, the time you spend in the layover city will be determined by the dates you select for each flight segment.
6. Search: Click on the search button to view available flights. Google Flights will display various flight combinations, including your desired layover city.

Example: If you are flying from New York to Austin but you also want to visit Los Angeles.

Tips for Finding Flights With Layovers in Certain Cities

• Be Flexible with Dates: A wider date range can unveil more flight choices, enhancing the likelihood of finding the ideal layover.
• Consider Nearby Airports: Look beyond your immediate origin and destination airports to include those within a reasonable radius, broadening your flight options and layover possibilities.
• Explore Alternate Airports: Don’t overlook smaller, nearby airports that might offer unique layover opportunities not available at larger hubs.
• Compare Options: Always weigh the cost and travel time against the convenience and experience of the layover to make the best choice for your journey.

See the flight booking tips on how to find cheap flights to anywhere.

What to be Aware of When Booking Flights With Layovers in Certain Cities?

When booking flights with layovers in certain cities and planning to leave the airport, keep the following tips in mind:

• Check Visa Requirements: Investigate whether you need a transit visa to leave the airport during your layover, as regulations vary by country and your nationality.
• Consider Time Difference: Be mindful of the local time zone and how the time difference might affect your layover duration and activities.
• Account for Transportation Time: Estimate the time needed to travel to and from the city center, ensuring you’re back at the airport well before your next flight.
• Keep an Eye on Layover Duration: Ensure your layover is long enough to allow for exploration without rushing, taking into account any potential delays.
• Secure Your Luggage: Look into luggage storage options at the airport if you don’t want to carry your bags during your city visit.
• Stay Informed on Local Transport: Research the most efficient transport options within the layover city to maximize your time outside the airport.
• Be Aware of Airport Re-entry Procedures: Familiarize yourself with the airport’s security re-entry process to avoid any surprises when returning for your connecting flight.

Start Planning Your Next Adventure

Now you’re equipped with all the tips and tricks for finding flights with layovers in specific cities. It’s time to pick the best booking platform and start mapping out your journey. Remember, it pays to shop around and compare prices across different sites. And if you’re crossing time zones, jet lag might be a concern, but don’t stress—we’ve got you covered with our jet lag prevention tips.

If you’re still undecided about your final destination, take a look at our guide on how to choose the perfect travel destination.

Make your journey smoother with our travel packing list template and travel budget planner template.

Make your journey count!