Airport lounges: how to get in without business class

Paying a daily pass

Most lounges sell a daily pass directly at reception, with prices in Italy ranging from approximately 39 euros at Fiumicino's Plaza Premium Lounge to 68 euros at Malpensa's Premium Lounge: a cost that pays for itself if you consider a full meal plus stable Wi-Fi connection in the public terminal.

Priority Pass and premium credit cards

Many travel-oriented credit cards include Priority Pass membership, which today opens the doors to over 1,900 lounges and airport experiences worldwide, regardless of which airline you fly with. High-end premium cards also often offer direct access to proprietary networks like American Express's Centurion Lounges, an alternative channel to Priority Pass with a more limited selection but very high quality.

Frequent flyer status and delay vouchers

If you have reached a frequent flyer status with your airline or the alliance it belongs to, free lounge access is often included even if you travel in economy. It's also worth checking whether your credit card or travel insurance includes a delay entry voucher: it's a benefit many have without knowing, and our guide on travel insurance for flight delays explains when it's really worth activating.

Before paying an impulse entry fee at reception, check the terms of your credit card and travel policy: it's the most common way to enter a lounge for free without even knowing you already have this right.