A layover is the time between connecting flights on one ticket — usually under 24 hours. A stopover is a deliberate stay of more than 24 hours (often days) at the connecting city, sometimes offered free by hub airlines.
Layover: you land, wait, and board your next flight, typically 1–8 hours. Bags are usually checked through and you may not need to clear immigration if you stay airside.
Stopover: a break of 24 hours or more that the airline treats as part of the itinerary. Airlines like Qatar Airways, Emirates, Turkish Airlines, Icelandair and Singapore Airlines sell or give away stopover packages (hotel nights, tours) to encourage it.
Direct vs nonstop: a ‘direct’ flight can stop en route with the same flight number; ‘nonstop’ means no stops. Check before assuming.
Self-connection: two separate tickets with a gap. No protection if the first flight is late — allow three hours or more.
Related questions
Can I leave the airport during a layover?
Often yes, if you can legally enter the country, your bags are checked through, and you have enough time — usually six hours or more. Subtract immigration, transit both ways and a 90-minute return buffer before deciding. Full answer →
Do I have to go through security again on a layover?
Not if you stay airside in the same terminal. You will re-clear security if you change terminals without an airside link, leave the airport, or arrive internationally into a country (like the US) that makes everyone clear immigration and customs. Full answer →
What happens if I miss my connecting flight?
On a single ticket, the airline rebooks you on the next available flight at no charge, and may owe meals or a hotel if the delay was its fault. On separate tickets you're on your own — you'll buy a new ticket. Full answer →
Airline, airport and government rules change without notice. Treat this as a starting point and confirm with the airline or authority for your specific trip. Request a correction if something is out of date.