Navigating the complexities of modern air travel can often be a stressful endeavor, making the foresight of planning overnight stays an essential strategy for a seamless journey. By opting for a restful stopover at an airport hotel, not only does the travel experience become more enjoyable, but the likelihood of encountering dreaded missed connections is significantly reduced. In today’s world of fewer direct flights and tighter schedules, this proactive approach to travel planning stands out as a wise and worthwhile investment in your overall journey satisfaction.
Having a hotel inside or attached to the airport, makes the process even easier as you don’t have to worry about a shuttle or even having to get to the airport so early…you’re already there!
Here are my favorites, ranked:
Modern Luxury: The Hyatt Regency at Zurich Airport exemplifies modern luxury and design. The spacious and well-appointed rooms provide a tranquil retreat for weary travelers.
Prime Location: Situated at The Circle, a new and lovely business and lifestyle district, the hotel offers direct access to the airport and is just a short train ride away from the city center. The Circle also has a wonderful outdoor park to explore.
Amenities and Dining: Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a fitness center, spa services, and various dining options that cater to international palates.
Restaurant: The Market offers a vibrant culinary experience with live cooking stations and a wide range of international dishes. Babel is a sit-down onsite restaurant, specializing in “Striking authentic cooking from the streets of Beyrouth”. Additionally, there are several restaurants in the Circle to choose from, including Negishi Sushi Bar, which is my personal favorite!
Bar: Iris is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a selection of drinks, including Swiss wines and craft beers, and it has a great view of the Circle.
Uniqueness and Style: The TWA Hotel is a stunning tribute to the golden age of air travel, with its iconic Flight Center designed by Eero Saarinen. The hotel’s retro design transports guests back to the 1960s, offering a unique and Instagram-worthy experience.
Convenience: Located at JFK Airport’s Terminal 5, the TWA Hotel provides easy access to all airport terminals via the AirTrain. This is particularly beneficial for travelers with early flights or long layovers. This is also the most frequent airport & hotel that I use for Splitporting.
Amenities: The hotel boasts an outdoor infinity pool and observation deck that overlooks the runway, providing a one-of-a-kind vantage point for plane spotting. Guests can also enjoy the 24-hour fitness center, multiple dining options, and the TWA museum that showcases the history of Trans World Airlines.
Restaurant: The Paris Café, designed by renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, offers a sumptuous menu inspired by the 1960s with a modern twist. There is also a 24 hour coffee bar offering snacks and other fare.
Bar: Connie Cocktail Lounge, set inside a vintage 1958 Constellation airplane, provides a unique setting for enjoying classic cocktails. There is also a lobby bar, adjacent to the sunken lounge and old-school analog “departures” sign.
Quiet and Comfort: The Westin at DTW offers soundproof rooms, ensuring a restful sleep despite the airport location. The signature Heavenly® Bed further guarantees a luxurious and comfortable stay.
Convenience: Directly connected to the McNamara Terminal, the hotel provides its own private TSA security check-in directly in the hotel lobby, offering unmatched convenience for travelers. Please note that if you have checked bags you will still need to go to the airline counter first, which is also close by. You can also go directly in the hotel from the terminal at gate A36.
Amenities: Guests can rejuvenate at the indoor pool, or workout at the Fitness Studio.
Restaurant: Reflections Restaurant and Lounge serves American cuisine with a contemporary flair, offering a variety of dishes to suit every palate.
Bar: Reflections Lounge, located within the restaurant, provides a relaxed atmosphere perfect for unwinding with a drink.
Scandinavian Design: The Radisson Blu SkyCity Hotel embraces the elegant and minimalist Scandinavian design, providing a stylish and comfortable stay right at the heart of Arlanda Airport.
Convenience and Accessibility: With direct access to both the airport and the Arlanda Express train, guests can effortlessly travel to and from not only the airport, but also the Stockholm city center.
Restaurant & Bar: Sky Horizon offers a variety of international dishes, with the added bonus of spectacular views of the airport.
Sleek Comfort and Convenience: The Marriott Gateway is a modern hotel offering a comfortable and convenient stay for travelers at one of the world’s busiest airports. With its sleek design and contemporary amenities, it stands as a testament to Marriott’s commitment to quality hospitality.
Seamless Airport Access: With a direct connection on the complimentary SkyTrain, guests can enjoy a quick and easy ride to and from the airport terminals, ensuring that their journey is as smooth as possible. This is particularly beneficial for those with early flights or tight connection times. Note: In addition to the Marriott, there is also a Renaissance and a Spring Hill Suites at this stop.
Amenities for Work and Play: The hotel features an array of amenities to cater to both business and leisure travelers. With spacious meeting facilities, a 24-hour fitness center, and an indoor saltwater pool, guests have everything they need at their fingertips. The on-site restaurant, Champions, serves a variety of American favorites, providing a convenient dining option.
Comfortable Accommodations: The rooms at Marriott Gateway are designed with the traveler’s comfort in mind, featuring plush bedding, soundproof windows, and ample workspaces. The hotel’s commitment to a restful night’s sleep is evident in every detail.
Green Initiatives: The Marriott Gateway is also known for its commitment to sustainability, holding LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Silver certification. Guests can rest easy knowing they are choosing an eco-friendly accommodation option.
Restaurant & Bar: Champions serves American cuisine in a sports-themed setting, with a menu that has something for everyone.
Seamless Connectivity: The Hilton BOS offers a covered walkway to the airport terminals as well as a complimentary 24-hour shuttle service, ensuring guests can easily transition from air travel to comfortable accommodation.
Comfort and Convenience: With soundproof windows and plush bedding, the Hilton guarantees a peaceful stay. Business travelers will appreciate the 24-hour business center and meeting facilities.
Dining with a View: Guests can enjoy stunning views of the city skyline at the hotel’s dining establishments, offering a memorable dining experience.
Restaurant & Bar: Connolly’s Publik House is an Irish pub offering a cozy atmosphere and a selection of beers, wines, and spirits. They serve New England cuisine along with some Irish classics.
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