The holiday season is in full swing, and if you’re looking for the best US airports for flights to Europe, now is the perfect time to plan your trip.
Europe is calling with its dazzling Christmas lights, charming decorations, and enchanting markets, offering a magical escape this winter.
From the aroma of mulled wine to the cozy glow of twinkling streets, there’s no better season to explore the charm of European cities this winter.
To follow up on my article about the best airline to fly to Europe from the USA, I’m exploring the best US airports for flights to Europe, focusing on convenience, affordability, and direct routes.
Whether you’re jetting off to experience the Christmas markets in Vienna or the Eiffel Tower’s holiday glow, these airports make transatlantic travel easier than ever.
1. John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), New York
- Extensive Options: Direct flights to almost every major European city, including London, Paris, Athens, and Berlin.
- Affordable Deals: Airlines like Delta, JetBlue, and Norwegian often compete with budget-friendly fares.
- Premium Lounges: Unwind in plush seating with sweeping runway views at Delta Sky Club or savor gourmet cuisine at the Lufthansa Lounge. From 2025, JetBlue will also open new premium lounges at JFK and Boston Logan.
For East Coast travelers, JFK combines unmatched accessibility with a vast airline network, making it an ideal launch point for your European adventure.
2. Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), Illinois
- Nonstop Routes: Frequent direct flights from ORD to London, Frankfurt, Dublin, and beyond.
- Central Location: Convenient for travelers from nearby states like Wisconsin, Indiana, and Michigan.
- Efficient Connections: Well-organized terminals ensure smooth and stress-free transfers.
Pro Tip: If you’re heading to a smaller European city, O’Hare offers some of the best connecting options at competitive prices.
3. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), Georgia
- Delta Dominance: Direct flights to Amsterdam, Rome, Zurich, and more.
- Convenience for the South: A prime choice for travelers from Georgia, Florida, and surrounding states.
- On-Time Departures: Consistently ranked for punctuality, ATL ensures a smooth start to your journey. Delta is also ranked the most punctual airline in North America in 2023.
Atlanta’s sprawling yet efficient layout makes it a strong contender for seamless international travel.
4. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), California
- Long-Haul Connections: Nonstop routes to major European cities like Paris, London, Istanbul, and Madrid.
- Variety of Airlines: From budget-friendly Norwegian Air to premium carriers like British Airways, Turkish Airlines, and Lufthansa.
- Travel Perks: Recently renovated international terminals with upscale shopping and dining options. In 2024, The Star Alliance lounge at Los Angeles International Airport is celebrated as one of the finest airport lounges globally.
LAX pairs vibrant amenities with extensive options, making it a favorite for travelers from California and beyond.
5. Miami International Airport (MIA), Florida
- Unique Routes: Direct flights from MIA to Southern Europe, including Lisbon and Madrid.
- American Airlines Hub: Frequent and reliable transatlantic service.
- Beach to Boarding: Enjoy Miami’s sunny beaches before heading to Europe’s wintry landscapes.
MIA’s proximity to Latin America also makes it an ideal hub for combining trips to multiple regions.
6. Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), New Jersey
- United Airlines Hub: Extensive nonstop options from EWR to Europe, including smaller cities like Edinburgh and Naples.
- Fewer Crowds: Compared to JFK, Newark is often less congested, making the experience smoother.
- Convenient for New Jersey Residents: Skip the NYC commute and save valuable time.
For travelers in the Tri-State area, Newark offers convenience without sacrificing route variety.
7. Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), Massachusetts
- Shorter Flight Times: As one of the closest US airports to Europe, flights from BOS are quicker.
- Boutique Airlines: Carriers like Aer Lingus and Icelandair offer unique routes and stopover options.
- JetBlue’s Expansion: Starting May 22, 2025, JetBlue will launch daily nonstop seasonal services to Madrid (MAD), marking its debut in Spain, and Edinburgh Airport (EDI) in Scotland.
- Compact Layout: Navigating Logan is easy and stress-free.
For a cozy, hassle-free start to your European getaway, Boston Logan is a perfect choice.
8. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Texas
- American Airlines Hub: Direct flights from DFW to popular cities like Paris, Madrid, and London.
- Centralized Location: Ideal for travelers from Texas, Oklahoma, and surrounding states.
- Award-Winning Amenities: Enjoy world-class dining and shopping while you wait.
DFW’s central location also makes it a great option for travelers connecting from smaller regional airports.
9. San Francisco International Airport (SFO), California
- Nonstop Flights: Routes to London, Paris, and Frankfurt with top airlines like United and Virgin Atlantic.
- Tech-Savvy Amenities: Charging stations, free Wi-Fi, and modern facilities make travel seamless.
- Eco-Friendly Travel: SFO’s sustainability initiatives appeal to eco-conscious travelers.
For Silicon Valley locals and beyond, SFO is the perfect gateway to Europe’s innovation and history.
Tips for Flying to Europe from the USA
- Compare Airlines: Use tools like Skyscanner, and Google Flights to find the best deals across carriers.
- Choose Nonstop Flights: Save time and reduce layover stress, but if you have a long layover, consider booking an hourly hotel near the airport to rest and refresh before your next flight.
- Book Early: Flights to Europe fill up quickly, especially during the holidays. Google has a recent study for the best time to book.
- Join Loyalty Programs: Rack up miles and enjoy perks on future trips.
Start Planning Your European Getaway
Don’t wait—your dream European vacation is just a flight away. Whether you’re strolling through Prague’s cobblestone streets, savoring gelato in Florence, or marveling at the Eiffel Tower, these top US airports will get you there effortlessly.
Book your flights today and let your holiday adventure begin!
