We Asked 16 Travel Experts for Their Favorite Airport Lounges—Here’s What They Said

Yes, airport lounges can feel overcrowded these days, thanks to the proliferation of premium credit card perks and pay-per-entry access. But a small selection of airport lounges have managed to retain an air of exclusivity, tranquility and V.I.P. status. Our A-List travel advisors, who spend a lot time in airport lounges, shared some of their favorites — and what sets them apart.

The Turkish Airlines Business Lounge at Istanbul Airport.

Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines Business Lounge, Istanbul Airport

“The Turkish Airlines Business Lounge in Istanbul is the best I’ve experienced. Its sheer size,  sleek design, and, most impressively, the variety of Turkish and international cuisine make it a destination in and of itself. The amenities include private suites, showers, and even a golf simulator.” — Robert Markovich, Sofia’s Travel

Air France La Première Lounge, Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

“The Air France La Première Lounge at Paris Charles de Gaulle sets the gold standard for luxury air travel— from its discreet, chauffeur-driven tarmac transfers and private security checks, to Michelin-level cuisine by top French chefs and indulgent spa treatments by Sisley.” — Jennifer Schwartz, Authentic Explorations

BTG Pactual, São Paulo International Airport

“BTG Pactual at São Paulo’s international airport is Latin America’s first private terminal.  Going through security takes less than five minutes, and the lounge area holds a maximum  of 14 people per hour. It has amazing food by Ivan Ralston and cocktails by Ricardo Miyazaki. When it’s time for your flight, you are brought by car to the plane’s door.” — Cris Nogueira, Cris Nogueira Travel

ANA Suite Lounge, Tokyo-Haneda Airport

“The ANA Suite Lounge at Tokyo Haneda’s Terminal 3 embodies understated luxury, thoughtful design, and impeccable service. The design is minimalist yet warm, with private areas for relaxation, soft lighting, and views of the runway that feel meditative rather than chaotic. It’s not flashy, and that’s exactly why it works.” — Duncan Greenfield-Turk, Global Travel Moments

Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse, London Heathrow Airport

“When I’m at London Heathrow, I’m always excited to visit the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse. The rooftop garden is great after a spin on one of the Clubhouse’s Pelotons. And nothing beats the afternoon tea service.” — Carolyn Ryberg, SojournTravel Advisors

Delta One Lounge at JFK Airport.

Delta Air Lines

Delta One Lounge, JFK Airport, New York City

“I typically dislike airport lounges with one exception: the new Delta One lounge at JFK. Not only does it have its own security line, but the lounge feels like a lively market, complete with restaurants, seating areas, and counter food galore.” — Erica Jackowitz, Roman & Erica

Qatar Airways’ Al Mourjan Business Lounge, Hamad International Airport, Qatar

“Hamad International Airport in Doha, Qatar is among the best in the world. Qatar Airways’ Al Mourjan Business Lounge blends modern aesthetics with traditional Qatari elements, and offers terrific dining options, private sleeping pods, luxury showers, and quiet zones. ” — Amalia Lazarov, Travelicious

Emirates First Class Lounge, Dubai International Airport

“The Emirates First Class lounge in Dubai is incredible. It’s essentially an entire floor of the terminal. The generous space ensures that you can always find an area to sit by yourself to make a business call. or relax without feeling crammed.” — Jonathan Alder, Jonathan’s Travels

The Lufthansa First Class Terminal at Frankfurt Airport.

Oliver Roesler/Deutsche Lufthansa

Lufthansa First Class Terminal, Frankfurt Airport

“The Lufthansa First Class Terminal in Frankfurt is flawless, with private security and  assistants who handle everything, including passport control. The lounge feels like a five-star hotel with fine dining (don’t miss the schnitzel), an exceptional whiskey bar, and plush daybeds and showers. The best part? You’re driven to your plane in a  Porsche or Mercedes.” — Lucija Boras, Travel Croatia & Beyond DMC

AMEX Centurion Lounges, Dallas and Houston

“When I’m connecting through Dallas or Houston, I always look forward to the AMEX Centurion Lounges. The design is sleek, the food is  excellent, and the service makes you feel genuinely taken care of.  Yu can truly reset between flights.” — Zachary Rabinor, Journey Mexico

Etihad Airways Business Class Lounge, Zayed International Airport, United Arab Emirates

“The Etihad Airways Business Class Lounge in Abu Dhabi spans three luxurious floors, and features impeccable service and dining options. I particularly enjoy the nap rooms, which offer a peaceful escape. And the massages are perfect for a little pampering before a long flight.” — Nina Aquino and Pablo Argüelles, Bravo Luxury Travel

The Pier First Class Lounge by Cathay Pacific at Hong Kong International Airport.

Cathay Pacific

The Pier First Class Lounge by Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong International Airport

“The Pier Lounge by Cathay Pacific in Hong Kong Airport has spacious seating areas and an several dining options, from a “grab and go” food market to a noodle bar. After a long flight, take a refreshing shower and enjoy a traditional tea at the Tea House or a cocktail at the bar.” – Jack Tydeman, Audley Travel

Plaza Premium Lounge, Fiumicino Airport, Rome

“The Plaza Premium Lounge at Fiumicino Airport in Rome feels like a scene from La Dolce Vita. Italian cuisine takes center stage, with freshly made pasta, premium wines, and an espresso bar serving rich, aromatic coffee.  Or sip a perfectly crafted negroni while enjoying gorgeous tarmac views.” — Matteo Della Grazia and Daniela Mencarelli, Fuoritinerario – Discover Your Italy

Club CHS, Charleston International Airport

“My favorite lounge isn’t the flashiest: the Club CHS at Charleston International Airport. It’s small and intimate, with great food, solid drinks, and warm  Southern hospitality. It feels more like a boutique hideaway than an airport lounge—and that’s exactly why I love it.” — Jim Augerinos, Perfect Honeymoons

Saphire Plaza Premium Lounge, Jakarta Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, Indonesia

“Jakarta’s Saphire Plaza Premium Lounge was a pleasant surprise while I was traveling on business with Garuda Airlines. It has few crowds and refined, exclusive service. The large windows and ample seating contribute to the relaxed experience.” — Mo Noubani, The Travel Box International

The Air Canada International Maple Leaf Lounge at Vancouver International Airport.

Air Canada

Air Canada International Maple Leaf Lounge at Vancouver International Airport

“The Air Canada International Maple Leaf Lounge at Vancouver International Airport offers a strong sense of place, with locally-inspired design and furnishings. There is also Indigenous artwork throughout the airport, including the Jade Canoe by Bill Reid and Musqueam Welcome Figures by Susan Point.” — Chris Bazos, Travelous

United Lounges, Denver International Airport

“I might be the only one to choose this, but my favorite are United’s newer lounges in Denver. I always go to the top floor, which has its own buffet and comfortable seats next to fireplaces. It feels so cozy, and I’ll often book a longer layover to relax there with a coffee and work on my laptop beside the fire.” — Stephanie Malakie, Empress