Stopovers: A Traveler’s Secret Weapon
If you’re looking to save money and add a bonus destination to your trip, stopovers are the ultimate hack. Many airlines offer stopover programs to promote tourism in their home countries, providing discounted flights or added perks for travelers willing to stop en route to their final destination.
This April, my best friend and I took advantage of this strategy for a trip to Portugal. At the time, direct flights were priced at $1,100–$1,500. By using a stopover program, I managed to book a round-trip ticket for just $653 (including an upgraded seat and checked baggage). The best part? We got to explore Iceland for free along the way!
While stopovers aren’t for everyone—especially if you’re not used to packing light—they’re perfect for adventurous travelers seeking an affordable way to see more of the world. Here’s how we turned a budget-friendly stopover into an unforgettable journey through Iceland and Portugal:
Day 1: Stopover in Iceland
Morning:
• Breakfast at the Airport
After landing in Iceland early in the morning, we fueled up at the airport before diving into our adventure. One thing I would note is that Iceland does not have good food. Just a heads up!
• Blue Lagoon
At 7:30 AM, we hopped on the FlyBus to the iconic Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa surrounded by lava fields. The $160 package included transportation to and from the airport, entry to the lagoon, and a signature silica mask treatment. Relaxing in the warm, mineral-rich waters was the perfect way to start our trip. This also came complete with a shower at the end so we could feel fresh for our next flight.
Afternoon:
• Transfer Back & Lunch
By noon, we were back at the airport, where we grabbed some snacks before boarding our flight to Lisbon.
Evening:
• Arrival in Lisbon
We landed in Lisbon at 8:30 PM, ready to rest up for the adventures ahead.
Day 2: Sintra & Pena Palace Day Trip
Morning & Afternoon:
• Fairy-Tale Escape to Sintra
Sintra’s whimsical architecture and lush gardens felt like something out of a storybook. We explored the colorful Pena Palace, strolled through the grounds, and visited Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe. Our guided tour also took us to Cascais, a charming coastal town.
Evening:
After a full day, we returned to Lisbon and relaxed.
Day 3: A Coastal Adventure in Lagos
Morning:
• Early Start
We caught the 5:45 AM bus to Lagos, a picturesque coastal town known for its dramatic cliffs and stunning beaches like Praia Dona Ana and Ponta da Piedade.
Afternoon:
• Explore Lagos
The natural beauty of Lagos was worth the long bus ride. Pro tip: bring a book or something to pass the time during the journey.
Evening:
• Nightlife in Lisbon
After returning to Lisbon at 9:00 PM, we headed to Pink Street for bar hopping and dancing. We didn’t make it back to our hotel until 3:00 AM!
Day 4: Pastries, Monuments & Relaxation
Morning:
• Pastry Class
If you’re feeling up for it, start the day with a hands-on pastry class, learning to make the iconic Pastéis de Nata.
Afternoon:
• Santuário Nacional de Cristo Rei
This towering statue offered panoramic views of Lisbon from across the Tagus River.
Evening:
• Boat Tour & Dinner
I think the perfect way to cap the day with a scenic boat tour along the river, followed by a delicious dinner.
Day 5: Exploring Lisbon’s Iconic Sights
Morning:
• Breakfast at Dear Breakfast
This cozy café was the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious Breakfast. The wait time is about 25 mins, but this place is instagram worthy.
• Arco de Rua Augusta & Belém Tower
These historic landmarks provided a glimpse into Portugal’s maritime history and offered plenty of photo ops.
Afternoon:
• Shopping & Lunch
We explored nearby shops and enjoyed lunch at Restaurante Ponto Final, which boasts breathtaking riverside views.
Evening:
• Farewell to Lisbon
After soaking in Lisbon’s charm, we made our way to the airport for our evening flight.
Day 6: Iceland Stopover Part 2
Morning:
• Explore Reykjavik
With 13 hours to spare, we explored Reykjavik, strolled along Rainbow Street, and visited Magic Ice Bar for a drink. For those seeking relaxation, the Sky Lagoon offers another fantastic geothermal soak. Be sure to get your tickets in advance.
Afternoon Adventure:
• Chasing Waterfalls
Feeling adventurous, we rented a car and drove two hours to the nearest waterfall, passing volcanoes along the way. Though I ended up with a speeding ticket (complete with a photo of me driving), the experience was worth every laugh and adrenaline rush.
Final Thoughts
This trip was nothing short of incredible. From Iceland’s geothermal wonders to Portugal’s historic charm, every moment felt like an adventure. Traveling with my best friend made it even more special—being single at the time, we embraced the freedom to explore, laugh, and create memories that still make us smile.
Pro Tip: Stopovers are a game-changer for budget travelers. Pack light, plan ahead, and you’ll unlock experiences you never imagined possible.
We had such a great time!