Top 5 Busiest Airports in Europe

Europe is home to some of the world’s busiest and most well-connected airports, serving millions of travelers each year. For frequent flyers, travel bloggers, and aviation enthusiasts, these transport hubs represent far more than departure and arrival points—they serve as fascinating epicenters of international activity. But what makes certain airports so busier than others?

If you’ve always wondered which airports in Europe handle the most traffic and why, you’re in for a treat! Let's take a closer look at the top five busiest airports in Europe, each serving as a gateway to the continent and beyond.

1. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)

Location

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, located just 9 kilometers southwest of Amsterdam, is the primary airport of the Netherlands.

Key Facts

• Over 414 flights per day, making it Europe’s busiest airport by scheduled departures.

• Renowned for its efficient one-terminal design, making navigation seamless for travelers.

• A major hub for KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and a focus city for several low-cost carriers.

Why It’s Busy

Amsterdam Schiphol is Europe’s favorite connection hub due to its advanced design and seamless connectivity. Its convenient geographic location offers a strategic intersection point for flights connecting North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. The airport also excels as a transfer hub, with smooth and efficient connections between flights.

Its amenities, including public art exhibits, high-end shops, and world-class dining options, are just icing on the cake for its 71 million annual passengers pre-pandemic.

2. London Heathrow Airport (LHR)

Location

Situated 23 kilometers west of Central London, London Heathrow is Europe’s second busiest airport and one of the world’s most renowned transport hubs.

Key Facts

• Serves approximately 409 daily flights.

• Home to two parallel runways and four passenger terminals.

• British Airways’ primary global hub.

Why It’s Busy

London Heathrow’s status as a global gateway can be attributed to its enormous range of destinations and connections. For millions of transcontinental travelers, Heathrow serves as the go-to connection point between Europe and the Americas.

Additionally, London’s standing as a global financial and cultural capital demands immense passenger traffic. From luxury lounges to excellent public transport links into London, Heathrow provides top-tier service to millions of travelers.

3. Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)

Location

Found roughly 23 kilometers northeast of Paris, Charles de Gaulle, often referred to as Roissy Airport, serves as France's largest airport.

Key Facts

• Handles 360 flights every day, making it the third busiest airport in Europe.

• A global hub for Air France and a major European hub for Delta Airlines.

• Offers state-of-the-art amenities, including high-speed rail links connecting passengers to central Paris and other regions of France.

Why It’s Busy

Paris Charles de Gaulle ranks as a leading airport because of its status as both a tourist and business hub. Known as the “City of Lights,” Paris attracts millions to its iconic landmarks, museums, and events every year.

The airport’s intermodal connections, such as its TGV high-speed train station, make CDG a favorite for travelers. Whether you're traveling for leisure, business, or a layover, CDG offers French sophistication with international efficiency.

4. Frankfurt Airport (FRA)

Location

Located approximately 12 kilometers southwest of Frankfurt’s city center, Frankfurt Airport is Germany’s largest and most important.

Key Facts

• Boasts 321 flights daily.

• Acts as the primary hub for Lufthansa and Star Alliance partners.

• Holds the record for the most destinations served globally with over 300 options.

Why It’s Busy

Frankfurt is the financial powerhouse of Europe and a global trade center, which naturally funnels enormous business travel traffic through FRA. Its central location within Europe, with connections to smaller German cities and international destinations alike, boosts its status as Europe’s go-to transit airport.

The airport’s seamless interconnections, coupled with premium facilities, make it an attractive hub for millions who value efficiency as much as convenience.

5. Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport (MAD)

Location

Situated about 12 kilometers outside Madrid’s city center, Madrid-Barajas is Spain’s busiest and largest airport, connecting Iberia with the rest of Europe and the world.

Key Facts

• Serves 347 daily flights, ranking it fifth among Europe’s busiest airports.

• Functions as the primary hub for Spanish carrier Iberia, including long-haul routes to Latin America and the US.

• Home to Terminal 4, celebrated for its architecture and passenger-friendly layout.

Why It’s Busy

Madrid-Barajas thrives in connecting Europe to Latin America, serving as a crucial transatlantic hub. Its favorable weather, well-planned terminals, and position as the cultural and political capital of Spain contribute to its perpetual buzz of activity.

Additionally, Madrid’s growing popularity as a tourist destination ensures that flights are always in demand. From business travel to leisurely trips to Spain’s sunny beaches, this airport handles it all.

Tips for Navigating Europe’s Busiest Airports

With high passenger volumes and constant activity, these airports can sometimes feel overwhelming. Here are a few helpful tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience when traveling through them:

• Arrive Early: Busy airports mean long lines, so plan for extra time for check-in and security.

• Download Airport Apps: Most major airports now have apps to track flight updates, find gates, and access amenities.

• Use Lounge Access Wisely: If affordability is within reach, lounges can be a sanctuary amidst the hustle and bustle.

• Check Intermodal Transport: Some airports, such as CDG and FRA, offer rail links that can save you both time and money.

Your Gateway Awaits

Travelers, take note—if Europe is on your radar, chances are you’ll pass through one of these bustling airports. Each offers a unique travel experience, from Amsterdam’s seamless design to Madrid’s striking terminals.

Whether you’re heading out on your next big adventure or writing a blog post about airports, these hubs serve as the perfect starting points. Now, what’s your next destination?