Not all airports are equal. Some make you wonder if you’ve wandered into a five-star hotel by mistake, while others try your patience before you even take off the ground. According to thousands of Google reviews, Holidu’s European Airport Index has put together the airports that passengers love best and those that…well, love least. Here’s what awaits when you arrive (or leave) in 2025.
Airports have a strange kind of power over a journey. They can make your time fly, smooth and nice, or they can get you wondering why you ever made any life choices as you stand on the floor because every seat is taken. It might be the joy of a large terminal or the agony of endless queues, but airports always leave a memory.
Holidu, the platform that helps you find holiday rentals, from cute apartments to beachfront villas, wanted to explore Google reviews and figure out which European airports are actually getting it right this year. By listing the highest rated and lowest rated airports in Europe, according to Google reviews, the goal wasn’t so much to attempt to find the “pretty” airports, but which ones are simplifying things (or complicating them) for the everyday traveller. Consider speedy security lines, pleasant signage, decent chow and an overall vibe that’s like, “You got this.”
The airports you actually don’t mind hanging out in
Leading the list is Istanbul Airport in Turkey, and it’s not difficult to see why. With over 100,000 reviews and a 4.4-star rating, it’s massive but never too much. People rave about the architecture; it’s modern, spacious and clean, which makes the airport feel almost luxurious. Automated ticket barriers, clear signs and well-laid-out terminals make it easy to get from check-in to your gate without needing a small army of staff to guide you. Some reviewers even joke that they enjoy walking around the airport just to take it all in. That’s the kind of airport experience we dream of.
And then there’s Porto’s Francisco de Sá Carneiro Airport in Portugal. Also 4.4 stars, this airport is able to stay calm even when it’s full. Travellers often mention how quick security and check-in are, and the fast lanes and kiosks where you can do everything yourself make the whole thing less torturous. It’s one of those airports where you can actually get a coffee, breathe and not be constantly fretting about getting to your flight on time.
And then there’s Helsinki Airport in Finland. Another 4.4-star discovery, it’s a single-terminal affair, and that speaks to ease: Check-in, security, departures, arrivals, all contained within a single building. Passengers love that despite the crowds, it never feels frenzied. Clean and tidy and remarkably hushed for an active hub, it’s an airport where you might actually be able to appreciate your layover. Yes, really.
Airports that might make you pull your hair out
Of course, not all airports are created equal. Crete’s Heraklion International Airport comes in lowest at a mere 2.6 stars. And the complaints are, let’s just say frequent. Delays, outdated terminals, minimal seating or none at all and finicky air-conditioning are a common complaint. Bathrooms allegedly aren’t something to write home about, either. If you’re there in the middle of summer, be prepared; it’s crowded, crazy and not the sort of spot you’ll want to stick around for.
France’s Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport isn’t much better. With a rating of 3.0 stars, its main issue is terminal building in Billi. Customers often complain about a lack of seats, limited dining and drink options and bottlenecks at the security stations. Basically, it gets crowded and uncomfortable when there are lots of people around.
Last but not least, there’s Brussels South Charleroi Airport at 3.1 stars. First constructed for fewer travellers, it’s now stretched to its limit. Reviewers often comment on lengthy lines, full terminals and few staff members. Some also say that reaching the city isn’t easy, which is another source of stress for travellers who simply want to get moving.
Why some airports feel amazing and others don’t
So, how is it different? One, for starters, is that there’s modern design and capacity involved. Airports like Istanbul, Porto and Helsinki either newly opened or had their previous buildings renovated, so they’re constructed with hordes of people in mind. The older airports, on the other hand, can’t always keep up, and small inconveniences like lack of seating room or poor air conditioning get magnified.
Comfort and amenities also matter more than you’d think. A clean bathroom, somewhere to sit and even decent food options can transform a waiting experience from misery to something bearable. Reviewers notice when these things are missing, and they don’t hold back in leaving low ratings.
Finally, efficiency counts. Rapid security, easy signage and cheerful employees can make the whole experience hassle-free. Airports that get these wrong, especially during rush hour, suffer. Slow lines and haphazard arrangements can ruin a vacation before you even leave.
Planning ahead
If you are flying in 2025, it’s helpful to know which airports will treat you well. Transferring via Porto, Helsinki or Istanbul raises the likelihood of an easy ride. If you don’t have the option to transfer via Heraklion, Bordeaux or Charleroi, prepare ahead: Get to the airport early, carry snacks along and maybe pack a portable charger for your devices; you’re going to need something to soothe you while waiting.
Holidu makes it easier to plan your holiday vacation in an more comprehensive way. You can search for holiday rentals by destination, dates and the number of guests, so you’re tying the airport experience together with a place to stay that still has the good energy. After all, smooth arrival sets the tone for the rest of the holiday.
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