Traveling through Europe can be a thrilling experience, with its rich history, diverse cultures, and breathtaking landscapes. However, navigating through the continent's airports can be a daunting task, especially for first-time travelers. To make your journey smoother, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the airport codes of Europe's top airports.
In this article, we'll explore the top 10 airport codes you need to know when traveling through Europe. From the bustling hubs of London and Paris to the charming airports of Amsterdam and Rome, we'll cover the most important airport codes to help you plan your trip with confidence.
Why Are Airport Codes Important?
Airport codes, also known as IATA codes, are three-letter codes that identify airports worldwide. These codes are used by airlines, travel agents, and airport staff to quickly identify airports and facilitate communication. Knowing the airport code of your destination airport can help you:
- Book flights more efficiently
- Plan your itinerary with ease
- Avoid confusion at check-in and baggage claim
- Make the most of your travel time
Europe's Top 10 Airport Codes
Here are the top 10 airport codes you need to know when traveling through Europe:
- LHR - London Heathrow Airport (UK) London Heathrow is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving over 80 million passengers annually. As a major hub for British Airways, Heathrow offers flights to over 180 destinations worldwide.
- CDG - Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (France) Located about 25 miles northeast of Paris, Charles de Gaulle Airport is the largest airport in France and a major hub for Air France. With over 70 million passengers annually, CDG offers flights to over 300 destinations worldwide.
- AMS - Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (Netherlands) Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is one of the busiest airports in Europe, serving over 70 million passengers annually. As a major hub for KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Schiphol offers flights to over 320 destinations worldwide.
- FRA - Frankfurt Airport (Germany) Located in the heart of Europe, Frankfurt Airport is one of the busiest airports on the continent, serving over 60 million passengers annually. As a major hub for Lufthansa, FRA offers flights to over 300 destinations worldwide.
- BCN - Barcelona-El Prat Airport (Spain) Located about 10 miles southwest of Barcelona, El Prat Airport is one of the busiest airports in Europe, serving over 50 million passengers annually. As a major hub for Vueling and Iberia, BCN offers flights to over 150 destinations worldwide.
- MAD - Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (Spain) Located about 9 miles northeast of Madrid, Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport is one of the busiest airports in Europe, serving over 50 million passengers annually. As a major hub for Iberia and LATAM, MAD offers flights to over 200 destinations worldwide.
- DXB - Paris Orly Airport (France) Located about 8 miles south of Paris, Paris Orly Airport is one of the busiest airports in Europe, serving over 30 million passengers annually. As a major hub for Air France and Transavia, ORY offers flights to over 150 destinations worldwide.
- MUC - Munich Airport (Germany) Located about 18 miles northeast of Munich, Munich Airport is one of the busiest airports in Europe, serving over 40 million passengers annually. As a major hub for Lufthansa and Eurowings, MUC offers flights to over 200 destinations worldwide.
- FCO - Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (Italy) Located about 19 miles west of Rome, Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport is one of the busiest airports in Europe, serving over 40 million passengers annually. As a major hub for Alitalia and Ryanair, FCO offers flights to over 150 destinations worldwide.
- IST - Istanbul Airport (Turkey) Located about 20 miles northwest of Istanbul, Istanbul Airport is one of the busiest airports in Europe, serving over 50 million passengers annually. As a major hub for Turkish Airlines, IST offers flights to over 300 destinations worldwide.
Gallery of European Airports
