Spanning from Paris to Sydney, these extraordinary airport lounges provide gourmet dining options, soothing spa facilities, and various other amenities for travelers to enjoy.
Gone are the days of unappealing airport lounges with harsh lighting, mediocre buffet food, and unreliable Wi-Fi. Today, the finest airport lounges boast impressive amenities such as yoga studios, detox bars, rejuvenating spa treatments, and dining areas featuring menus crafted by renowned celebrity chefs. To access these luxurious havens, travelers usually need to fly in business or first class, but some premium credit cards also offer access. Here are 13 of the world’s top airport lounges and how you can gain entry.
Please note that while some of these lounges may currently be closed, they are expected to reopen. Prior to your intended visit, it is essential to verify with your airline regarding available facilities and amenities, as well as the cleaning and health protocols in place.
Air France Premier Lounge
Air France’s La Première first-class cabin offers an exceptionally stylish and fashionable flying experience, complemented by a très chic ground experience. The flagship first-class lounge at Charles de Gaulle recently reopened after an extensive refurbishment, featuring a brighter and more inviting cocktail bar, semi-private relaxation areas, and new art installations. The dining room continues to offer cuisine crafted by renowned chef Alain Ducasse. While the Biologique Recherche spa treatments are temporarily suspended, they are expected to resume soon.
Access to the La Première lounge is reserved for fortunate travelers departing or connecting in Paris in Air France’s La Première cabin. However, access can also be purchased for 500 euros ($600) or 75,000 Flying Blue frequent flyer miles per person if departing on a long-haul Air France or Delta flight without La Première cabins.
American Airlines Dining Lounge
American Airlines offers its most exclusive lounges, known as Flagship First Dining venues, at major hubs in Dallas, Los Angeles, Miami, and New York JFK. Once inside, guests experience a premium dining experience, seated at individual tables and presented with gourmet menus featuring delectable options like roasted beet and burrata salad, or free-range beef tenderloin with prosciutto-wrapped asparagus. The lounge typically serves high-end beverages, including Krug Champagne and other premium wines from France and the U.S., along with handcrafted cocktails.
To access the Flagship First Dining lounge, passengers must be flying in American Airlines’ first-class cabin on international routes or on one of its transcontinental flights with a three-cabin plane (economy, business, and first class). While the Miami location is expected to reopen in September, the others will follow suit.
American Express Lounges
American Express has been steadily expanding its network of sophisticated Centurion Lounges, even amidst the pandemic, with new locations in airports like New York JFK and Charlotte. The network is set to reach 40 locations soon, including both Centurion Lounges and rebranded Escape Lounges known as The Centurion Studio Partner, which are smaller outposts with fewer amenities worldwide. While the services and facilities may vary, guests can expect consistent features such as locally-inspired decor and art installations, fine-dining menus curated by up-and-coming regional chefs, and an array of beverages, including signature cocktails and unique options like Napa wines and Colorado microbrews. Some lounges even offer spa facilities, while the JFK location boasts a speakeasy bar.
To access these lounges, individuals with a Platinum, Business Platinum, or Centurion (Black) card can enter by presenting a same-day boarding pass. Additionally, those with a Delta SkyMiles Reserve business or personal card can access the lounges when flying Delta.
Cathay Pacific’s The Pier First Class Lounge in Hong Kong.
Designed by Ilse Crawford, known for her work on Ett Hem in Stockholm and Refettorio Felix in London, Cathay Pacific’s The Pier First Class Lounge in Hong Kong offers a captivating ambiance with diverse spaces to cater to different preferences. The lounge features elegant sitting areas with panoramic tarmac views for aviation enthusiasts and a distinctive horseshoe-shaped cocktail bar with a pale green onyx top for those seeking a stylish and vibrant setting. The mid-century-inspired restaurant serves sophisticated continental cuisine, including the airline’s renowned spicy dan dan noodles. For guests seeking tranquility, The Retreat section provides eight day rooms and shower suites, along with a small spa offering complimentary mini treatments like facials and foot massages.
As of now, the lounge is temporarily closed, but it is expected to reopen due to its popularity. Access to The Pier First Class Lounge requires departing in first class on Cathay Pacific or another Oneworld airline, or having Oneworld top-tier Emerald status.
Delta Sky Club at Atlanta.
Delta offers an impressive total of nine Sky Clubs at its main hub, Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson. If you visit the one in Concourse F, you’ll have the chance to enjoy the outdoor Sky Deck, offering snacks and drinks with captivating views of the runways. Alternatively, the flagship Sky Club in Concourse B is an excellent choice, providing ample space to relax. It boasts a “wine wall” curated by Delta’s master sommelier, Andrea Robinson, and a rotating selection of Southern tapas from acclaimed Atlanta-based chef Linton Hopkins. The lounge also features an art gallery showcasing works by local artists and well-lit shower suites for added convenience.
To access either location, you will need a Delta Sky Club membership or be flying business class on international or transcontinental routes with Delta or its SkyTeam partners. Certain SkyTeam elites and passengers with Amex Platinum or Delta SkyMiles Reserve cards flying with the airline on the same day can also gain entry.
Emirates First Class Lounge at Dubai
The Emirates First Class Lounge at Dubai International Airport is a sprawling facility that occupies a significant portion of the airport’s international concourse, almost resembling its own terminal. Guests can indulge in various luxuries, including wine tastings in the lounge’s wine cellar and rejuvenating treatments at the Timeless Spa. A coffee bar awaits for a quick espresso fix, while the cigar lounge provides a relaxing space for cigar aficionados. The lounge also features a variety of in-lounge duty-free shops for shopping convenience. In the dining room, an extensive buffet offers a wide range of options, from sushi to pastries, and there are also à la carte choices. Guests can order food and drinks from any of the spacious seating areas throughout the lounge. Additionally, shower suites and semi-private quiet rooms are available for those seeking relaxation or a quick nap.
To access this lavish lounge, passengers must have Emirates Skywards Platinum elite status or be departing in first class on an Emirates flight.
First Class Terminal of Lufthansa at Frankfurt
Lufthansa has established a remarkable First Class Terminal at its Frankfurt hub, offering exclusive privileges to first-class travelers. Instead of going to the main airport, passengers can directly access the First Class Terminal, complete their security screening there, and indulge in various premium amenities. After enjoying the lounge’s offerings, they will proceed through a dedicated customs and immigration checkpoint before being chauffeured to their flight. The terminal boasts several attractions, such as a cigar lounge, an extensive whiskey bar with over 130 varieties, a fine dining restaurant, and well-appointed shower rooms, including one with a full bath where guests can even request the airline’s signature rubber duckies.
Starting from September 1, access to the First Class Terminal will be limited to passengers departing in first class on Lufthansa, arriving on Lufthansa in first class and connecting to a flight operated by Lufthansa, Austrian, or Swiss, and Uber-elite Hon Circle fliers.
Qantas First Class Lounge in Sydney
Upon entering Qantas’ Sydney hub, travelers are greeted with a grand living wall of plants before ascending on an escalator to the lounge level. This experience evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of the golden age of flying, complete with a vintage-style destination board featuring charming clattering letter and number tiles. The lounge offers a delightful array of activities to pass the time, including savoring seasonal dishes crafted by renowned Australian celebrity chef Neil Perry. Guests can also indulge in complimentary massages or facials using luxurious LaGaia products at the day spa. For those seeking refreshment, there are elegant marble-clad shower suites available, as well as private conference rooms for spontaneous meetings.
At present, the lounge is closed, but it is expected to reopen when international flights resume. Access is granted to first-class passengers flying on Qantas, Emirates, or Oneworld partner flights. Additionally, certain Qantas, Emirates, and Oneworld elite members departing on Qantas, Emirates, or Oneworld partner airline flights can also enjoy the lounge’s amenities.
Qatar Airways Business Lounge at Al Mourjan Doha
While Qatar Airways’ business-class Qsuites are a significant draw for travelers, their spacious and elegant lounge in Doha is also a compelling reason to choose the airline. Spanning over 100,000 square feet, the lounge caters to diverse preferences and needs. Families have dedicated spaces, while others can enjoy quiet corners or more communal sitting areas. For relaxation, there are semi-private napping rooms, and for refreshment, there are two dining rooms available. The lounge also features a variety of individual shower suites, a game room with pinball machines, foosball, PlayStation, and even an F1 race car simulator. A sculptural spiral staircase leads to a reflecting pool, adding to the allure of the lounge.
To access the lounge, passengers must be flying business or first class on Qatar Airways or one of its Oneworld partner airlines. However, it may be possible to purchase access online in advance or during travel if flying with the airline in economy or on a basic business fare.
First Class Lounge of Swiss at Zurich
Swiss’ flagship lounge offers a striking sight as soon as you enter – a glassed-in humidor showcasing an impressive collection of 1,000 wine bottles, some of which are served at the nearby Champagne counter and in the lounge’s two restaurants. For passengers with longer layovers, the lounge provides the convenience of two fully equipped “hotel rooms,” featuring Hästens beds and en-suite bathrooms. If time is limited, the shower suites are available for a quick refresh, and business travelers can easily book conference rooms for on-the-go meetings. Don’t miss the opportunity to step out onto the terrace and enjoy the invigorating mountain air while gazing at the picturesque views of the Alps.
Although the lounge is currently closed, it is expected to reopen soon for guests departing or connecting on Swiss or Lufthansa in first class.
Turkish Airlines Business Lounge at Istanbul
Turkish Airlines’ lounge at the modern Istanbul Airport spans an impressive 60,000 square feet, accommodating up to 765 people, and surprisingly, it manages to offer a luxurious experience. The lounge boasts a diverse range of comfortable seating areas, including private cabines for those seeking a peaceful space to rest or work. Entertainment options include a multimedia room with a wall of televisions, while the business center is equipped with iMacs. Families traveling with children will appreciate the dedicated kids’ area featuring a small playground. Culinary delights are abundant, with various food stations offering both buffet and made-to-order specialties like pide, gözleme, and baklava. Should the lounge be busy, guests can find solace in the private shower suites for a refreshing preflight ritual.
Access to the lounge is available for first- and business-class passengers flying with Turkish Airlines and other Star Alliance member airlines. Additionally, Star Alliance Gold elites are also welcome to enjoy the lounge’s amenities.
Lounge of United Polaris at Chicago
As part of their rebranding efforts for international business-class travel, United Airlines introduced customized Polaris business-class lounges at various hub locations. The flagship lounge is situated at Chicago O’Hare and boasts distinctive features, such as an exquisite ceiling installation by artist Wolfgang Buttress, resembling the Chicago night sky. Relaxation areas offer chaise lounges adorned with Saks Fifth Avenue pillows and blankets, providing ultimate comfort. The lounge provides diverse seating spaces to suit different preferences, from socializing to working, including private pods with a single armchair and desk each. In the spacious dining area, guests can enjoy a buffet and a full-service menu offering delectable dishes like mahi-mahi tostadas and orange-seared chicken, complemented by creative cocktails like the Polaris paloma.
Access to the Polaris lounge is granted to passengers flying on United Polaris (not just the airline’s domestic business or first class) or business/first class internationally on a Star Alliance carrier.
Club House of Virgin Atlantic at London
Virgin Atlantic revolutionized the flying experience in the 1980s, making it enjoyable again, and this vibrant spirit is still evident in their flagship Clubhouse at London Heathrow. The lounge features a 14-meter cocktail bar, creating a lively atmosphere for mingling with fellow passengers. A dining room offers à la carte selections, including the classic Clubhouse cheeseburger, and a delightful afternoon tea experience. Before indulging in the lounge’s offerings, guests are encouraged to visit the salon and spa desk to book complimentary hair or spa treatments on a first-come, first-served basis, ensuring they look their best for their flight.
Heathrow Terminal 3 recently reopened, and the Clubhouse is likely to follow suit. Access to the lounge is granted to passengers flying in Virgin Atlantic Upper Class or Delta One, as well as those with high-end elite status with Virgin Atlantic or one of its airline partners.
