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With over 250 locations in more than 110 airports across 40 countries, Plaza Premium Lounges offer one of the most widespread independent lounge networks in the world.
While amenities vary by location, these lounges generally offer a quiet place to relax, get a meal or drink, and catch up on work or emails — a notable upgrade from crowded terminal seating. Whether you're looking to sip a cocktail or simply charge your devices, a lounge visit can make your travel day more comfortable.
With so many lounge networks (and even more rules for how to access them), it can be tricky to know which ones are worth your time — and which ones you can access for free through your credit cards. Here's what to know about Plaza Premium Lounges: where they are, what they offer, and how to get in.
What are Plaza Premium Lounges?
Plaza Premium operates a network of independent airport lounges in over 110 airports worldwide, as well as nearly two dozen railway stations in mainland China. Unlike airline-run lounges, these locations aren’t tied to a specific carrier or frequent flyer status — making them accessible to a wider range of travelers.
The brand launched in 1998 with lounges in Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur, and it now spans six continents. While amenities vary by location, many Plaza Premium lounges offer comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, hot food, drinks (sometimes including alcohol), and shower facilities. Some locations also reflect local design influences and culinary touches — though offerings can range from basic to more upscale depending on the airport.
One of my personal favorites of these lounges is in São Paolo (GRU). It offers fantastic food options, tons of space, beautiful views of the runway, and comfortable furnishings for any type of traveler. That said, not all of these lounges are created equal, so some locations are better than others.
Related: What You Need To Know About Priority Pass Lounges
What Airports Have Plaza Premium Lounges?
You'll find Plaza Premium lounges in more than 110 airports across more than 40 countries worldwide, so it's not feasible to list out each and every location. However, you can generally expect at least one location at major international airports.
If you typically only fly within the U.S., you won't get much of an opportunity to visit one of these lounges. You'll find a Plaza Premium lounge at Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) and Orlando (MCO).
For those traveling outside the U.S., you'll find lounges in the following countries:
- Africa: Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania, Zimbabwe
- Middle East: Jordan, Oman, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates
- Southeast Asia: Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand
- Asia: India, Japan, South Korea, Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan
- Oceania: Australia, New Zealand
- Europe: Denmark, Finland, Hungary, Italy, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, United Kingdom
- Americas: Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, El Salvador, Mexico
How to Access Plaza Premium Lounges
Travelers have several options for visiting a Plaza Premium lounge when traveling.
- Access through credit cards: Cardholders of The Platinum Card® from American Express and the The Business Platinum Card® from American Express receive access to all Plaza Premium locations. Unfortunately, Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card cardholders lost direct access to Plaza Premium lounges on March 1, 2025, although you'll still be able to access some Plaza Premium locations through Priority Pass.
- Access through Priority Pass: If you have a Priority Pass Select membership through cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve® or the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, you can access more than 60 Plaza Premium locations in more than 20 countries. Be sure to check in your Priority Pass app to see if you have access.
- Purchase a day pass: If you don't have access through Priority Pass or the American Express Global Lounge Collection, you can purchase a day pass. Packages range from $30 to $379, depending on lounge locations and the number of day passes you wish to purchase. If you're going to spend $379 on a 10-visit pass, do the math to see whether a premium travel card that comes with lounge access and additional benefits is worth that money instead.
Related: Lounge Tool to Find All the Airport Lounges You Can Access
Final Thoughts
Plaza Premium Lounges won’t rival the top-tier airline lounges or Centurion Lounges, but they often offer a meaningful upgrade over the gate area — especially at busy international airports. Some lounges feel upscale and spacious; others are more functional than fancy.
Before you pay for access, check your credit cards to see if you already have complimentary entry. For frequent international travelers, Plaza Premium can be a useful part of your lounge strategy.
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