Top 10 Exceptional Airport Lounges Around the Globe

News: When it comes to airport experiences, there are two kinds of travelers: those who leisurely explore the airport with ample time on their hands, and those who sprint to the gate with mere seconds to spare. The world’s best airport lounges, however, have the power to transform even the most rushed travelers into those who savor the pre-flight moments.

Airports are often associated with long lines at fast-food joints and crowded coffee shops, but savvy travelers know that airport lounges can turn the travel experience into a luxurious affair. Frequented by seasoned travelers and first-class enthusiasts, these lounges offer a stylish and comfortable retreat, making the wait for boarding a pleasure. While access may require a fee, the investment is often justified for extended layovers or simply for the opulent experience they provide.

Not all airport lounges are created equal. While some may offer basic amenities and worn-out furniture, the finest lounges are destinations in themselves. These top-tier lounges not only deliver impeccable service and gourmet cuisine but also boast unique features such as spa services, private offices, luxury car rentals, and more.

Here is a curated list of the world’s best airport lounges:

Air France La Première Lounge

• Location: Paris’ Charles de Gaulle (CDG) Airport
• Highlights: Exclusive lounge for La Première passengers, featuring a stylish design, complimentary spa treatments, and gourmet cuisine curated by chef Alain Ducasse.
• Access: Open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., available to La Première cabin travelers. Access can be purchased for 500 euros or 75,000 miles.

Qantas First Lounge

• Location: Sydney
• Highlights: Elegant lounge with European oak frames, a library, a business center, and a Rockpool restaurant. Features a greenery-filled design by tropical botanist Patrick Blanc.
• Access: Open from 5 a.m. until the last Qantas international departure. Available to first-class fliers on Qantas, Emirates, or Oneworld partner flights, as well as certain elite members.

American Express Centurion Lounge

• Highlights: Recently expanded luxurious lounge with chef Ravi Kapur’s cuisine, a variety of seating areas, and a seasonal wine bar.
• Access: Open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., exclusively for American Express card members with a Centurion- or Platinum-branded card.

Qatar Airways Al Safwa First Class Lounge

• Location: Doha Airport
• Highlights: Opulent lounge with soaring ceilings, a fountain, art by renowned artists, and private rooms in the “Quiet Area.” No complimentary spa services.
• Access: Open 24/7, accessible to all Qatar and Oneworld first-class flyers.

Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse

• Location: London Heathrow
• Highlights: Reflects Virgin Atlantic’s unique ethos with a large bar lounge, Peloton bikes, a billiards table, and an open-air rooftop.
• Access: Open from 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., accessible to Virgin Atlantic Upper Class or Delta One flyers, and certain cardholders.

Etihad First Lounge & Spa

• Highlights: Offers unique amenities, including a gym, Six Senses Spa, style and shave barbers, and a nail salon.
• Access: Open 24/7, accessible to those with Etihad Airway’s First Class or The Residence, travelers with Etihad Guest Platinum status, or by paying a fee.

Turkish Airlines CIP Lounge

• Highlights: Entertainment-focused lounge with a golf simulator, cinema, pool table, and video game consoles. Offers Turkish cuisine and a Turkish tea garden.
• Access: Both Miles & Smiles and Business Lounge are open 24/7, accessible to first- and business-class travelers, or through lounge access purchase.

Thai Airways Royal Orchid Prestige Lounge

• Highlights: Provides a royal experience with fast-track services, complimentary spa treatments, steam rooms, saunas, and an a la carte restaurant.
• Access: Open from 5 a.m. until 1 a.m., accessible to Royal First Class or First Class passengers, and Royal Orchid Plus Platinum card holders.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal

• Location: Frankfurt
• Highlights: Entire terminal dedicated to Lufthansa’s first-class passengers, featuring private security, a white tablecloth restaurant, workstations, and a luxury car service.
• Access: Open from 5:30 a.m. until 10 p.m., available to those flying first class on Lufthansa or SWISS flights that day, or HON Circle Elite status holders.

Oman Air First & Business Class Lounge

• Location: Muscat
• Highlights: Gilded lounge with wavy wall and ceiling details, offering a serene atmosphere. Limited first-class flights contribute to a more relaxed ambiance.
• Access: Open 24/7, available to those flying first class on Oman Air, or through the Business Class Lounge for business- and first-class passengers, as well as Oman Air Sindbad Silver or Gold Members.