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Interactive play spaces, quick transport options and nearness to fun-filled city adventures – here’s our pick of the world’s best layover destinations for families travelling with kids.
Navigating layovers can be daunting with young adventurers; however, not all airports are created equal. From proximity to iconic landmarks and white-sand beaches to onsite playgrounds and interactive experiences, these family-friendly layover destinations ensure the whole crew can enjoy seamless connections from point A to B.
Singapore
Crowned the world’s best airport 12 times by aviation research organisation Skytrax, Singapore Changi Airport is not just renowned for its efficiency and innovation: it has transformed into a destination in its own right. With play areas such as the Butterfly Garden, indoor rock wall, canopy park and the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, boredom is simply not an option. From the airport, hop on the MRT train and arrive in Singapore’s vibrant city in just 30 minutes, where the world-acclaimed, mega plant metropolis Gardens by the Bay awaits with interactive delights, an enormous treehouse and water play features.
Bangkok
Suvarnabhumi Airport offers an abundance of dining options, a massive courtyard with manicured flower beds where kids can run around and the Wonder World kid’s zone to entertain toddlers. Hop on the 30-minute Airport Rail Link to reach Bangkok’s bustling heart, where temples like Wat Pho and the Grand Palace dazzle with intricate designs and rich history. Don’t miss a tuk-tuk ride through vibrant markets or a boat trip along the Chao Phraya River for an authentic taste of Thai culture.
Kuala Lumpur
With the 30-minute KLIA Ekspres train, families can snap photos at the iconic Petronas Towers, stroll through Chinatown’s bustling streets and enjoy a meal at renowned food street, Jalan Alor, and still be back in time for their connecting flight. Back at the airport, be sure to check out the Jungle Boardwalk, head to the movie lounges (available at both terminals) and visit Playland@KLIA, where little ones can pretend play as pilots on miniature toy planes.
Istanbul
At Istanbul Airport, families can check out convenient sleep pods that offer a cool and calming retreat for a small fee right within the terminal or check into a relaxing lounge during their layover. Beyond the airport, take the newly-launched, driverless metro line into Istanbul’s historical heart, where the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque stand as magnificent reminders of the city’s imperial past. Wander through the vibrant lanes of the Grand Bazaar, where you can savour authentic Turkish delights and experience the bustling atmosphere, all before catching your next flight.
Sydney
Sydney Airport is home to a range of family-friendly facilities, including an interactive kid’s zone near Gate 10, a children’s cinema near the immigration area and a digital activation space in partnership with the Museum of Applied Arts and Science in Gate 53. Hop on the 13-minute AirportLink train to explore Sydney’s iconic attractions, including the Sydney Opera House and Taronga Zoo. Bondi Beach offers sun, sand and surf for a relaxed afternoon, while Darling Harbour provides diverse dining and entertainment options for all ages.
Vienna
Vienna International Airport welcomes families with an indoor Family Fun Gate – home to slides and climbing walls – the Kid’s Zone within D Gates and the Visitor World experience, where guests gain insight into the hustle and bustle of the airport. Dive into Vienna’s cultural scene via the 16-minute CAT train to the city centre, where Schönbrunn Palace and the Museum of Natural History await. Enjoy an afternoon at Vienna Prater amusement park or sample delicious Viennese pastries at traditional coffee houses.
Dubai
With Dubai International Airport as your starting point, you’re just a 20-minute train ride away from experiencing the modernity and luxury that defines the city. Ride the world’s tallest elevator 163 floors to the top of the Burj Khalifa, shop til’ you drop at the Dubai Mall or keep the kids (and kids at heart) entertained for hours at Aquaventure Waterpark, located within Atlantis the Palm Dubai. For adventure, head to the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve for a safari or relax at Jumeirah Beach overlooking the Persian Gulf. For shorter layovers, let kids be kids at the airport’s DXB Family Zone, check out the LEGO store in terminal three and be sure to visit the Game Space gaming lounge.
Honolulu
Honolulu Airport offers easy access to Oahu’s natural beauty and cultural sites. Nearby the airport, visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial for a historical experience or the Waikele Premium Outlets to snag a deal. For a spot of sun and sand, relax on the shores of Waikiki Beach, or treat the adventure enthusiast in the family to panoramic views of Honolulu with a hike up Diamond Head. Back at the airport, make the most of your layover with several Chinese, Hawaiian and Japanese gardens, providing the perfect place for parents to unwind and kids to explore.
Featured image: Singapore Changi Aiport
