42 Underrated Airports That Are Surprisingly Fun to Get Stuck In

42. Reykjavik Domestic Airport, Iceland: Arctic Minimalism, City Access

Not to be confused with Keflavík, Reykjavik’s smaller domestic hub is a study in Icelandic minimalism. Located minutes from the city center, it features sleek interiors, stunning views of Faxaflói Bay, and a rotating display of Icelandic photography. Grab a local pastry, hop a flight to the Westfjords, and enjoy the seamlessness of arctic travel at its quietest.

Layovers don’t have to be dreaded. As this list of 42 remarkable airports shows, they can become some of the most unexpected highlights of your journey. From serene spas in Helsinki to rooftop pools in Singapore, these terminals defy the stereotype of airports as soulless stopovers. They invite you to pause, explore, indulge—and in some cases, even play. Whether it’s a moment of cultural discovery in Marrakesh, a taste of tradition in Tbilisi, or a brush with fantasy in Wellington, these spaces offer something rare in modern travel: time well spent. They prove that the airport isn’t just a bridge between places—it can be a destination in its own right. So next time you're in transit, don’t just look for your gate. Look around. You might just find art, peace, wonder—or a perfectly made bowl of ramen—waiting to change how you see travel altogether.