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The Best Ways To Book Lufthansa Business Class Using Points [Step-by-Step]

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Key Takeaways

  • Lufthansa Business Class can be booked using miles from programs like Lufthansa Miles & More and other Star Alliance partners.
  • Popular frequent flyer programs to use include Air Canada Aeroplan, ANA Mileage Club, Asiana Club, Avianca LifeMiles, and United MileagePlus.
  • Transferring points from credit card partners like Capital One Miles, Chase Ultimate Rewards, and Citi ThankYou Rewards to these programs can help secure award seats.

When you think about air travel to and from Europe, there’s a good chance Lufthansa comes to mind. That’s no accident! Lufthansa has long been considered one of the best ways to fly there.

Even with increased competition from carriers in the Middle East and Asia, Lufthansa has continued to shine with its first class product. However, we need to be realistic about Lufthansa business class.

It’s a comfortable flight that provides Lufthansa business class lounge access and quality service, but it lags behind other business class ticket options.

Let’s dig into the pros and cons and discuss how you can book this product with points.

A Look Inside the Lufthansa Business Class Cabin

A Lufthansa business class seat might be just what you’re looking for on a flight, but you should get a clear picture of what to expect before you book.

Air France 777 Business Class Business Class Cabin From Front
Middle seats provide direct aisle access in the Lufthansa business class cabin. Image Credit: Nick Ellis

It doesn’t have an inflight bar like Emirates business class or the privacy of Delta One Suites, but the seats are comfortable and you will enjoy your flight. Additionally, all seats are fully lie-flat to ensure you can sleep soundly on your international long-haul flights.

If you’re looking for the best business class seat on Lufthansa, choose a seat in the middle section. While these seats might not provide great privacy, each one does have direct aisle access. You won’t have to climb over someone when you need to stretch your legs, and the flight attendant won’t have to reach over someone to hand you drinks and meal service like they do with the window section passengers.

Lufthansa-Business-Class-Lounge
Relaxing in the business class lounge before your flight is a must to get the full experience. Image Credit: Lufthansa

Whether you’re traveling for work or for fun, a business class lounge can play an important part in your travel experience. With buffet dining and beverage options ranging from coffee and tea to beer, wine, and spirits, you will surely enjoy yourself.

How To Book Lufthansa Business Class

Now that you know what to expect from your experience, let’s dive into booking your flight. As a Star Alliance member, Lufthansa has plenty of frequent flyer programs you can use to book its business class product.

We’re going to review 6 options here: Air Canada Aeroplan, ANA Mileage Club, Asiana Club, Avianca LifeMiles, Miles & More, and United MileagePlus.

Hot Tip: Where can you fly Lufthansa nonstop from in the U.S. to Frankfurt (FRA)? View our definitive guide to Lufthansa’s direct routes from the U.S., including plane types and seat options.

Air Canada Aeroplan

One of our favorite options to book business class award tickets on Lufthansa is through Air Canada’s Aeroplan program.

For flights between the U.S. and Germany, Aeroplan will charge you based on your itinerary’s total flight distance. On a one-way business class ticket, the amount will range from 60,000 to 70,000 Aeroplan points.

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Distance (Miles)

Economy

Business

0 to 4,000

35,000

60,000

4,001 to 6,000

40,000

70,000

6,001 to 8,000

55,000

85,000

8,001+

70,000

100,000

It’s easy to search for and book award flights online. Here’s the simple booking process:

  1. Visit the Air Canada website.
  2. In the top-right area of the homepage, hover over the button that says Sign in. Click Sign in.
  3. Enter your Air Canada Aeroplan login details and click Sign in.
  4. You’ll see a search box on the homepage. First, toggle the slider that says Points.
  5. Choose Round-trip or One-way. Enter your trip details and click Find.
  6. Find your Lufthansa business class option, use your Aeroplan points, and provide your credit card information to pay for taxes and fees.
    • If you’re planning on booking a stopover for 5,000 miles extra, you must find availability for each segment and then call Aeroplan at 800-361-5373 to book your ticket.

Hot Tip: Check out our Aeroplan region definition guide to make it easy to find out how many miles you need to book your award.

Earning Air Canada Aeroplan Points

If you need Aeroplan points, the program is an American Express transfer partner, Capital One miles transfer partner, and Chase Ultimate Rewards transfer partner points at a 1:1 ratio almost instantly.

Lastly, Marriott Bonvoy has a 3:1 transfer ratio with a bonus of 5,000 miles if you transfer 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points to Air Canada Aeroplan. Marriott Bonvoy transfers take 5 business days.

Recommended Chase Cards (Personal)

BEST BEGINNER CARD
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Star rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating icon
U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)
A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
60,000 bonus points
$1,200
$95
20.74% - 27.74% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
Why We Like This Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® card is one of the best travel rewards cards on the market. Its bonus categories include travel, dining, online grocery purchases, and streaming services, which gives you the opportunity to earn lots of bonus points on these purchases.

Additionally, it offers flexible point redemption options, no foreign transaction fees, and excellent travel insurance coverage including primary car rental insurance. With benefits like these, it’s easy to see why this card is an excellent choice for any traveler.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 5x points on all travel booked via the Chase Travel portal
  • 5x points on select Peloton purchases over $150 (through March 31, 2025)
  • 5x points on Lyft purchases (through March 31, 2025)
Cons
  • $95 annual fee
  • No elite benefits like airport lounge access or hotel elite status
Card Highlights
  • Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
  • Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
  • Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2027.
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 20.74% - 27.74% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Chase Sapphire Reserve®
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)
A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
60,000 points
$1,200
$550
21.74% - 28.74% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Excellent (740-850)
Why We Like This Card

If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® is one of the best options out there.

The card combines elite travel benefits and perks like airport lounge access, with excellent point earning and redemption options.  Plus it offers top-notch travel insurance protections to keep you covered whether you’re at home or on the road.

Don’t forget the $300 annual travel credit which really helps to reduce the annual fee!

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase TravelSM immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually
  • 10x points on Lyft purchases through March 31, 2025
  • 10x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 through March 31, 2025
Cons
  • $550 annual fee
  • Does not offer any sort of hotel elite status
Card Highlights
  • Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
  • Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
  • 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
  • Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $120 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Coverage, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 21.74% - 28.74% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

INTRO OFFER
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This all-purpose cash-back card offers great bonus categories, including bonus points for every purchase you make!

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)
This all-purpose cash-back card offers great bonus categories, including bonus points for every purchase you make!
Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!
Up to $300 cash-back
$0
0% Intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.74% - 28.49%.
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
Why We Like This Card

The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is easily one of the best cash-back credit cards on the market. There aren’t many no-annual-fee credit cards that offer multiple great bonus categories like 5% back on travel purchased through Chase, 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases, and 1.5% back on all other purchases.

When paired with other Chase cards in the Ultimate Rewards family, you can transfer that cash back into points if you wish – making it one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.74% - 28.49%.
  • 5% back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠
  • 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases
Cons
    • 3% foreign transaction fee
Card Highlights
  • INTRO OFFER: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!
  • Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).
  • After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
  • No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
  • Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.74% - 28.49%.
  • No annual fee – You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
  • Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, alerts, and more.
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 0% Intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.74% - 28.49%.
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: 3% of each transaction in U.S. dollars
Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Chase Freedom Flex®
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Freedom Flex card is an excellent no-annual-fee card that still earns big with 5% cash-back on travel and other bonus categories.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)
The Freedom Flex card is an excellent no-annual-fee card that still earns big with 5% cash-back on travel and other bonus categories.
Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening.
$200
$0
0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.74% - 28.49%
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
Why We Like This Card

The Chase Freedom Flex℠ sure does pack quite a punch — especially for a no-annual-fee card.

The Freedom Flex card is an incredible option for those looking for a well-rounded cash-back card, or a powerful point-earner when paired with a premium card in the Ultimate Rewards family.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.74% - 28.49%.
  • Powerful cash-back earner: 5% back on quarterly categories and travel purchases through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases, and 1% back on all other purchases
  • No annual fee
Cons
    • 3% foreign transaction fees in U.S. dollars
Card Highlights
  • Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening
  • 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter!
  • 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more
  • 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
  • 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.74%-28.49%.
  • No annual fee – You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Flex® card
  • Keep tabs on your credit health - Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, real-time alerts, and more.
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.74% - 28.49%
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Business Owner? Check out our article on the best Chase business cards that earn Ultimate Rewards.

ANA Mileage Club

Normally, ANA Mileage Club would always be at the #1 position in our list, but there’s an additional layer that complicates the decision of which frequent flyer program to use: fuel surcharges.

Lufthansa and almost all of its portfolio airlines impose gigantic fuel surcharges in excess of $1,000 per round-trip ticket, which can really bring the cost of your award redemption up.

So even though ANA offers the best redemption rates of a 1:1 transferable currency (Amex), you’ll need to think about whether it’s worth it to save your points and pay higher taxes and fees or redeem more points and pay lower taxes and fees.

Here’s how much you’ll pay for a round-trip business class flight between the U.S. and Europe:

SCROLL FOR MORE

Cabin Class

ANA Miles Cost (Round-Trip)

Taxes and Fees

Economy

55,000

~$581

Business

88,000

~$1,581

We recommend following these steps to first find availability on United’s website and then book the ticket on ANA’s website:

  1. Use United’s website to search for award availability.
  2. Go to ANA’s U.S. homepage once you’ve located availability on United’s website.
  3. On the left-hand box, click Flight Awards.
  4. Log into your ANA Mileage Club account.
  5. Enter your ANA Mileage Club login credentials.
  6. Choose Round trip or Multiple Cities/Mixed Classes.
  7. Enter your flight information and click Search.
  8. Select your flights and pay for taxes and fees with a credit card.

Here’s what a successful award search for Lufthansa business class would look like on ANA Mileage Club’s website:

Lufthansa business class search result on ANA Mileage Club
Image Credit: ANA

Earning ANA Mileage Club Miles

You can earn ANA miles through transfer partnerships with Amex (1:1) or Marriott Bonvoy (3:1 with a 5,000-mile bonus after transferring 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points).

Amex and Marriott Bonvoy transfers take 3 and 4 business days, respectively.

Recommended American Express Cards (Personal)

BEST LOUNGE ACCESS
The Platinum Card® from American ExpressTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.
Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
80,000 points
$1,760
$695
See Pay Over Time APR
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
Why We Like This Card

When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than The Platinum Card® from American Express.

Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access, hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
  • 5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
  • 5x points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com
Cons
  • $695 annual fee (rates and fees)
  • Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)
Card Highlights
  • Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
  • $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
  • $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
  • The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
  • $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
  • $200 Uber Cash: Platinum Card® Members can get out and about and explore their local area with $15 in Uber Cash for US rides each month, plus a bonus $20 in December. That can be up to $200 in annual Uber savings. Simply download the Uber app and add your Platinum Card® to your Uber account to get started. Available to Basic Card Member only. Effective 11/8/2024, an Amex Card must be selected as the payment method for your Uber or Uber Eats transaction to redeem the Amex Uber Cash benefit.
  • $199 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $199 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
  • Receive either a $120 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
  • Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
  • Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
  • $695 annual fee.
  • Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
  • Terms Apply.
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: See Pay Over Time APR
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

BEST FOR DINING
American Express® Gold CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
Star rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating icon
U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!
Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
60,000 points
$1,200
$325
See Pay Over Time APR
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
Why We Like This Card

The American Express® Gold Card is a game-changer.

With this card, you can earn 4x Membership Rewards points at restaurants, up to $50,000 per calendar year, and you’ll also earn 4x Membership Rewards points at U.S. supermarkets on up to $25,000 per calendar year, then 1x.

There isn’t another card on the market that offers a 1-2 punch like this. Of course, there are several other benefits of the Gold Card as well, including extra monthly dining rewards and more.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 4x points per dollar at restaurants worldwide, up to $50,000 per calendar year; then 1x thereafter
  • 4x points per dollar at U.S. supermarkets, up to $25,000 per calendar year; then 1x thereafter
  • 3x points per dollar on flights purchased directly from airlines or at AmexTravel.com
Cons
Card Highlights
  • Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
  • Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
  • Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
  • Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
  • $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year. Effective 11/8/2024, an Amex Card must be selected as the payment method for your Uber or Uber Eats transaction to redeem the Amex Uber Cash benefit.
  • $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations.
  • $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
  • $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
  • Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. Eligible charges vary by property.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • Annual Fee is $325.
  • Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
  • Terms Apply.
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: See Pay Over Time APR
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Business Owner? Check out our article on the best Amex business cards that earn Membership Rewards.

Asiana Club

Our next option isn’t as well known as the others, but don’t count it out! Asiana Airlines’ frequent flyer program, Asiana Club, offers some incredible mileage prices, assuming you are able to actually accrue these elusive miles.

These miles provide one of the best options for booking a Lufthansa business class ticket.

Asiana-Airlines-Award-Chart
Asiana Club provides some of the cheapest award booking options for this business class experience. Image Credit: Asiana Airlines

Here’s how much it’d cost to book a Lufthansa business class ticket between the U.S. and Europe using Asiana miles:

SCROLL FOR MORE

Cabin Class

Asiana Miles Cost (One-Way)

Taxes and Fees

Economy

25,000

~$250

Business

40,000

~$750

Unlike the previous options, this one requires a phone call to Asiana Club.

You must reserve and have your ticket issued 3 days prior to departure, which prevents snagging last-minute awards.

Here’s what you need to know to book your Lufthansa business class flight using Asiana miles:

  1. Search for availability using United’s site (see steps above).
  2. Call Asiana at 800-227-4262.
    • The U.S. ticketing department is open between 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. PST (Monday to Friday, except for public holidays).
  3. Tell the phone representative you’d like to book an award with Star Alliance partner Lufthansa.
  4. Provide your travel dates and flight numbers.
  5. Once you confirm space, you will be prompted to give your credit card to cover any necessary taxes and fees.

Asiana Airlines will pass on all carrier-imposed surcharges, so be aware of that going into the process.

Earning Asiana Club Miles

Asiana Airlines’ only transfer partner is Marriott Bonvoy, which comes at a 3:1 ratio with a 5,000-mile bonus for every 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points transferred to Asiana. That means if you transfer 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points to Asiana, you’ll wind up with 25,000 Asiana miles.

Marriott Bonvoy takes around 4 business days to transfer points to Asiana.

Recommended Marriott Bonvoy Cards

Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A great option for Marriott hotel fans who want a no annual fee card and automatic Marriott Bonvoy elite status.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)
A great option for Marriott hotel fans who want a no annual fee card and automatic Marriott Bonvoy elite status.
Earn 60,000 Bonus Points plus 1 Free Night Award after you spend $2,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Free Night valued at 50,000 points. Certain hotels have resort fees.
60,000 points + 1 Free Night Award
$770
$0
20.74% - 27.74% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
Why We Like This Card

Casual travelers who like to frequent properties that are part of the Marriott Bonvoy collection of brands may want to consider the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card.

The Marriott Bold card rewards cardholders for Marriott stays and gives them a boost towards Marriott Bonvoy elite status.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Up to 14x points per $1 on Marriott purchases
  • 2x points at grocery stores, rideshare, select food delivery, select streaming, and internet, cable, and phone services
  • 5 Elite Night Credits each year
Cons
  • Lower point earn rate than other Marriott Bonvoy cards
  • Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status is the lowest status tier
Card Highlights
  • Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • Pay no annual fee with the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card from Chase®!
  • Earn up to 14X total points per $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® with the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Card.
  • New! Earn 2X points for every $1 spent at grocery stores, rideshare, select food delivery, select streaming, and internet, cable, and phone services.
  • 1X point for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
  • New! Travel now, pay later - Break up purchases into equal monthly payments with no interest plus no plan fees on qualifying travel purchases. Terms apply.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 20.74% - 27.74% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Marriott loyalists will love this card's annual Free Night Award, automatic elite status, and up to 17x points per $1 on Marriott hotel stays.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)
Marriott loyalists will love this card's annual Free Night Award, automatic elite status, and up to 17x points per $1 on Marriott hotel stays.
Earn 125,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from your account opening.
125,000 points
$875
$95
20.74% - 27.74% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
Why We Like This Card

If you’re a frequent traveler and a Marriott loyalist, there’s a lot to love about the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card. The card comes packed with several great benefits like a free hotel night once a year, automatic Silver Elite status (with a fast-track to Gold Elite status), and multiple options for redeeming points.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Earn big when you use your card at thousands of participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels
  • Earn big at grocery stores, gas stations, and dining
  • Automatic Silver Elite Status
Cons
  • $95 annual fee
  • Marriott Silver Elite Status is the lowest status tier
Card Highlights
  • Earn 3 Free Night Awards (each night valued up to 50,000 points) after qualifying purchases.
  • Earn 3X points per $1 on the first $6,000 spent in combined purchases each year on grocery stores, gas stations, and dining.
  • Earn 1 Elite Night Credit towards Elite Status for every $5,000 you spend.
  • 1 Free Night Award (valued up to 35,000 points) every year after account anniversary.
  • Earn up to 17X total points per $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Card.
  • Receive 15 Elite Night Credits annually, automatic Silver Elite status, and path to Gold Status when you spend $35,000 on purchases each calendar year.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees. Your points don't expire as long as you make purchases on your card every 24 months.
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 20.74% - 27.74% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card gives you automatic Marriott elite status and helps you earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on your everyday purchases.

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card gives you automatic Marriott elite status and helps you earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on your everyday purchases.
Earn 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you spend $5,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
85,000 points
$595
$250
19.99%-28.99% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
Why We Like This Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® Card, the latest mid-tier offering in the Marriott Bonvoy lineup of cards, offers cardholders automatic elite status and ways to earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on each of their stays and daily purchases.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 6x points per $1 at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy
  • 4x points per $1 at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases per calendar year, then 2x points)
  • 2x points per $1 on all other purchases
Cons
  • $250 annual fee (rates & fees)
  • Free Night Award certificate is not an automatic benefit
Card Highlights
  • Earn 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy.
  • Earn 4X points at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets per calendar year, then 2X points).
  • Earn 2X points on all other eligible purchases with the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ Card.
  • Marriott Bonvoy 1K Bonus Points Per Stay: Earn 1,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points per paid eligible stay booked directly with Marriott for properties participating in Marriott Bonvoy.
  • With complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elites status, earn up to 2.5X points from Marriott Bonvoy® on eligible hotel purchases with the 25% Bonus Points on stays benefit, available for Qualifying Rates.
  • Marriott Bonvoy Bevy Free Night Award: Earn 1 Free Night Award after spending $15,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ Card in a calendar year. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points) at a hotel participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
  • 15 Elite Night Credits: Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express Card® you can receive 15 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express. Terms apply.
  • Plan It® is a payment option that lets you split up purchases of $100 or more into equal monthly installments with a fixed fee. Plus, you'll still earn rewards the way you usually do.
  • $250 Annual Fee.
  • Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
  • Terms Apply.
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 19.99%-28.99% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A premium card for Marriott fans who want perks like an annual statement credit and Free Night Award, plus a fast track to Marriott elite status.

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

A premium card for Marriott fans who want perks like an annual statement credit and Free Night Award, plus a fast track to Marriott elite status.
Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
95,000 points
$665
$650
19.99%-28.99% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
Why We Like This Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card is a premium card designed with road warriors and Marriott Bonvoy loyalists in mind.

So is the card a worthwhile addition to your wallet?

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 6x points per $1 at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy program
  • 3x points per $1 on flights booked directly with airlines and restaurants worldwide
  • 2x points per $1 on all other purchases
Cons
Card Highlights
  • Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • $300 Brilliant Dining Credit: Each calendar year, get up to $300 (up to $25 per month) in statement credits for eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card at restaurants worldwide.
  • With Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status, you can receive room upgrades, including enhanced views or suites, when available at select properties and booked with a Qualifying Rate.
  • Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Earn 3X Marriott Bonvoy® points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines and 2X Marriott Bonvoy® points on all other eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card.
  • Free Night Award: Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
  • Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, you will be eligible to select a Brilliant Earned Choice Award benefit. You can only earn one Earned Choice Award per calendar year. See https://www.choice-benefit.marriott.com/brilliant for Award options.
  • $100 Marriott Bonvoy Property Credit: Enjoy your stay. Receive up to a $100 property credit for qualifying charges at The Ritz-Carlton® or St. Regis® when you book direct using a special rate for a two-night minimum stay using your Card.
  • Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®: Receive either a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($120) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck® (up to $85 through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider) and pay the application fee with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
  • Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card you can receive 25 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express.
  • Enroll in Priority Pass™ Select, which offers unlimited airport lounge visits to over 1,200 lounges in over 130 countries, regardless of which carrier or class you are flying. This allows you to relax before or between flights. You can enjoy snacks, drinks, and internet access in a quiet, comfortable location.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees on international purchases.
  • With Cell Phone Protection, you can be reimbursed, the lesser of, your repair or replacement costs following damage, such as a cracked screen, or theft for a maximum of $800 per claim when your cell phone line is listed on a wireless bill and the prior month's wireless bill was paid by an Eligible Card Account. A $50 deductible will apply to each approved claim with a limit of 2 approved claims per 12-month period. Additional terms and conditions apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
  • $650 Annual Fee.
  • Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
  • Terms Apply.
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 19.99%-28.99% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

Avianca LifeMiles

Avianca’s LifeMiles frequent flyer program offers excellent redemption rates on Lufthansa business class, especially when you consider that it doesn’t pass on any fuel surcharges.

On top of that, you’ll find that there are many ways to earn LifeMiles!

And while the LifeMiles search engine gets a lot of flak in the context of booking Lufthansa first class, there are fewer issues when booking Lufthansa business class.

Here’s the award chart for U.S.-Europe itineraries:

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Cabin Class

Avianca LifeMiles Cost (One-Way)

Taxes and Fees

Economy

30,000

~$38

Business

63,000

~$38

Importantly, you’ll see that your total taxes and fees charged will be in the ballpark of $40, making this a great deal.

Here’s how to book your Lufthansa business class flight with LifeMiles:

  1. Go to the LifeMiles website.
  2. The site should display in Spanish. Change the language to English by clicking on the flag icon in the top-right corner and clicking English.
  3. After getting sent to the English site, log into your LifeMiles account.
  4. Click Fly on the homepage’s top banner after logging in.
  5. On the flight search page, click on the drop-down menu that says Smart Search and change it to Lufthansa.
  6. Fill in the search box, choose one-way or round-trip, and click Find Flights.
  7. Select your travel dates.
  8. Complete the booking by redeeming your LifeMiles and using a credit card for taxes and fees.

Earning Avianca LifeMiles

Currently, LifeMiles is transfer partners with Amex Membership RewardsCiti ThankYou RewardsCapital One MilesBrex Rewards, and Marriott Bonvoy.

All of these except Marriott Bonvoy transfer at a 1:1 ratio almost instantly. With Marriott Bonvoy, you’ll transfer at a 3:1 ratio and transfers take around 1 business day.

If you combine these redemption prices with a transfer ratio (usually 15% to 30%) and/or an award discount sale (usually 10% to 20%), you could significantly reduce your points outlay.

Citi Strata Premier℠ Card
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

For a limited time: Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $750 in gift cards or travel rewards on thankyou.com.
75,000 points
$1,200
$95
20.49% to 28.49% Variable APR
Why We Like This Card

The Citi Strata Premier℠ Card is a great all-around travel rewards card that allows you to earn big rewards on a variety of purchases like air travel, at restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, and more, along with flexible redemption options, all for a modest annual fee.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 10x points on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked through CitiTravel.com
  • 3x points on air travel, other hotel purchases, restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, and EV charging stations
  • $100 annual hotel benefit
Cons
    • $95 annual fee
Card Highlights
  • For a limited time: Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $750 in gift cards or travel rewards on thankyou.com.
  • Earn 10X points per $1 spent on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on CitiTravel.com.
  • Earn 3X points per $1 on air travel and other hotel purchases, at restaurants, supermarkets, gas and EV charging stations.
  • Earn 1X point per $1 spent on all other purchases.
  • $100 Annual Hotel Benefit: Once per calendar year, enjoy $100 off a single hotel stay of $500 or more (excluding taxes and fees) when booked through CitiTravel.com. Benefit applied instantly at time of booking.
  • No expiration and no limit to the amount of points you can earn with this card.
  • No foreign transaction fees on purchases.
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 20.49% to 28.49% Variable APR
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Citi Rewards+® Card
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This no annual fee card rewards cardholders for everyday purchases. Earn bonus points at supermarkets and gas stations, plus your points are rounded up on every purchase.

This no annual fee card rewards cardholders for everyday purchases. Earn bonus points at supermarkets and gas stations, plus your points are rounded up on every purchase.
Earn 20,000 bonus points after you spend $1,500 in purchases with your card within 3 months of account opening; redeemable for $200 in gift cards at thankyou.com.
20,000 points
$320
$0
0% intro APR on balance transfers and on purchases for 15 months. After that, a variable APR of 17.99% to 27.99%.
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent Credit Recommended (670-840)
Why We Like This Card

The Citi Rewards+ card is an excellent way to earn Citi ThankYou points with a $0 annual fee while receiving perks like point round-ups, a 10% point redemption rebate, and more.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 5x points on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on CitiTravel.com through December 31, 2025
  • 2x points on at supermarkets and gas stations for the first $6,000 per year
  • Round up to the nearest 10 points on every purchase
Cons
  • Doesn’t offer access to the entire collection of Citi transfer partners
  • Charges foreign transaction fees
Card Highlights
  • Earn 20,000 bonus points after you spend $1,500 in purchases with your card within 3 months of account opening; redeemable for $200 in gift cards at thankyou.com
  • Plus, as a special offer, earn a total of 5 Thank You® Points per $1 spent on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on CitiTravel.com through December 31, 2025.*
  • 0% Intro APR on balance transfers for 15 months from date of first transfer and on purchases from date of account opening. After that, the variable APR will be 17.99% to 27.99%, based on your creditworthiness. There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
  • Earn 2X ThankYou® Points at Supermarkets and Gas Stations for the first $6,000 per year and then 1X Points thereafter. Plus, earn 1X ThankYou® Points on All Other Purchases.
  • The Citi Rewards+® Card – the only credit card that automatically rounds up to the nearest 10 points on every purchase – with no cap.
  • No Annual Fee
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 0% intro APR on balance transfers and on purchases for 15 months. After that, a variable APR of 17.99% to 27.99%.
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: 3% of each purchase transaction in US dollars
Citi Double Cash® Card
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Great card for the average spender with no specific focus category; worry-free cash-back earning on everything!

Great card for the average spender with no specific focus category; worry-free cash-back earning on everything!
Earn $200 cash-back after spending $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening.
$200 cash-back
$0
0% Intro APR for 18 months on balance transfers, then 18.49% to 28.49% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Fair to Excellent (580-850)
Why We Like This Card

The Citi Double Cash® Card has long been one of the top cash-back credit cards on the market, and the card now has the ability to earn Citi ThankYou Points!

This means that cardholders of the Double Cash card will now earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. Cash back is earned in the form of ThankYou Points. This means each billing cycle, you will earn 1 ThankYou point per $1 spent on purchases and an additional ThankYou point for every $1 paid on your purchase balance as long as there is a corresponding balance in your Purchase Tracker.

Citi has turned the Double Cash card into a top choice for those who are looking for an everyday, no-fuss credit card.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Uncapped 2% for every $1 spent (1% when you buy and another 1% when you pay)
  • Flexible redemption options
  • No annual fee
Cons
  • No bonus categories
  • 3% foreign transaction fees
Card Highlights
  • Bonus Offer: Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
  • Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
  • To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time.
  • Balance Transfer Only Offer: 0% Intro APR for 18 months on balance transfers; after that, the variable APR will be 18.49% to 28.49%, based on your creditworthiness. Balance Transfers do not earn cash back. Intro APR does not apply to purchases.
  • If you transfer a balance, interest will be charged on your purchases unless you pay your entire balance (including balance transfers) by the due date each month.
  • There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
  • Citi Double Cash® Card Travel Portal Special Offer
    Earn a total of 5 ThankYou® Points per $1 spent on hotel, car rental, and attractions, excluding air travel, when booked through the Citi Travel℠ portal via cititravel.com or by calling 1-833-737-1288 (TTY: 711). Offer is valid through 12/31/2025.
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 0% Intro APR for 18 months on balance transfers, then 18.49% to 28.49% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: 3% of the U.S. dollar amount of each purchase
Rewards Center

Citi ThankYou Rewards

Citi Custom Cash® Card
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Earn big on purchases in your top eligible spend category, up to the first $500 each billing cycle, without an annual fee!

Earn big on purchases in your top eligible spend category, up to the first $500 each billing cycle, without an annual fee!
Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
$200
$0
0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months. After that, the variable APR will be 18.49% - 28.49%.
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Fair to Excellent (580-850)
Why We Like This Card

The Citi Custom Cash® Card is inventive when it comes to cash-back credit cards. Instead of earning a set amount of cash-back on predetermined bonus categories, the Citi Custom Cash card earns 5% cash-back on your highest eligible spend category each billing cycle, with a $0 annual fee.

Thanks to that unique perk, you’ll never need to worry about whether you’re using the right card for the right purchase, as your Citi Custom Cash card will always pay you 5% back on whichever category you end up spending the most on each month.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 5% cash-back (on up to $500 each billing cycle) from your largest purchase category, including restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores, select travel, select transit, select streaming services, drugstores, home improvement stores, fitness clubs, and live entertainment
  • $0 annual fee
  • Multiple redemption options
Cons
  • Your 5% category is limited to $500 in spend ($25 in cash-back) each month
  • Not particularly rewarding for any purchases outside of your top 5% cash-back category
Card Highlights
  • Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
  • Get 0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months. After that, the variable APR will be 18.49% - 28.49%, based on your creditworthiness.
  • Earn 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter. Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • Special Travel Offer: Earn an additional 4% cash back on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on Citi Travel℠ portal through 6/30/2026.
  • No rotating bonus categories to sign up for – as your spending changes each billing cycle, your earn adjusts automatically when you spend in any of the eligible categories.
  • $0 annual fee.
  • Citi will only issue one Citi Custom Cash® Card account per person.
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months. After that, the variable APR will be 18.49% - 28.49%.
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: 3%

Miles & More

The Miles & More program is actually the loyalty program for several airlines owned by the Lufthansa Group. In addition to Lufthansa, this includes Austrian Airlines, SWISS Air, Brussels Airlines, LOT Polish Airlines, and Croatia Airlines.

Miles & More Award Chart
Miles & More Award Chart. Image Credit: Miles & More

To search for award availability online, you must have at least 7,000 miles in your Miles & More account. Otherwise, you will need to contact the U.S. Lufthansa call center at 800-581-6400.

Hot Tip: Child tickets for flights on Adria Airways, Austrian Airlines, Air Dolomiti, Brussels Airlines, Croatia Airlines, Eurowings, LOT Polish Airlines, Lufthansa, Luxair, and SWISS can be booked at a 25% mileage discount.

If you have the required miles to search online, follow these simple steps to book:

  1. Go to Miles & More’s website.
  2. Log into your Miles & More account.
  3. Select your travel dates and route.
  4. Select Business as your class of service.
  5. Select your desired flight.
    • Miles & More will show award availability for all Miles & More airlines, so make sure you select a Lufthansa flight as opposed to a Brussels Airlines flight, for example.

Miles & More requires you to pay all carrier-imposed surcharges on award tickets, and they can be pretty steep on Lufthansa. Note that the fees are lower when booking a flight from Europe to the U.S. rather than from the U.S. to Europe.

Hot Tip: If you are booking a round-trip journey, check to see if 2 one-way bookings will require lower fees than a round-trip booking.

Earning Miles & More Miles

Due to the lack of transfer partners, the best way to earn Miles & More miles (other than booking an eligible revenue flight) is with the co-branded Lufthansa Miles & More credit cards from Barclays.

United MileagePlus

Probably the most well-known option in the U.S., United MileagePlus has been the go-to method for many people when booking business class awards on Lufthansa. Fortunately, United award bookings do not incur the high carrier-imposed surcharges, saving you upwards of $700 in each direction.

The program does, however, charge more miles for flying on a partner airline than United metal, so you’ll pay a bit more when booking on Lufthansa.

United got rid of its award chart and now relies on a dynamic pricing schedule, but you can expect to pay the following prices for a Saver award:

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Cabin Class

United Miles Cost (One-Way)

Taxes and Fees

Economy

From 33,000

~$5.60

Business

From 77,000

~$5.60

As you can see, no fuel surcharges are passed on!

You can book Lufthansa business class with United by following these steps:

  1. Visit United’s website.
  2. Sign in to your account.
  3. Select Book with miles.
  4. Select your travel dates and your route.
  5. Select your cabin of choice (business).
  6. Select your flight (make sure it is operated by Lufthansa (LH)).
  7. Review your flight choice and confirm your reservation by redeeming your miles and paying for taxes and fees.

Earning United MileagePlus Miles

You can transfer Chase points at a 1:1 ratio, or Marriott Bonvoy points at a 3:1 ratio with a 10,000-mile bonus after transferring 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.

Transfers from Chase are instant, while Marriott Bonvoy takes approximately 3 business days to transfer points.

There’s also the option to earn United miles directly with a co-branded United credit card by Chase.

LIMITED TIME OFFER
United℠ Explorer Card
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

With priority boarding privileges, no foreign transaction fees and more, MileagePlus members will definitely enjoy their partnered card.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)
With priority boarding privileges, no foreign transaction fees and more, MileagePlus members will definitely enjoy their partnered card.
Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
60,000 miles
$720
$95
21.24% - 28.24% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
Why We Like This Card

You travel United all the time, but you have heard that there could be ways to make your travel experiences even better, including priority boarding, free bags, and more miles.

You should consider the United℠ Explorer Card, because this card does all that and more!

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 2x miles per $1 on United purchases, dining purchases (including delivery services), and hotel stays
  • 1x mile per $1 on all other purchases
  • First checked bag free for you and up to 1 traveling companion
Cons
  • $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 annual fee
  • Does not earn transferable rewards
Card Highlights
  • Limited-time Offer: Earn 60,000 bonus miles
  • $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95.
  • 2x miles on United® purchases, dining, and hotel stays
  • Enjoy priority boarding privileges and visit the United Club℠ with 2 one-time passes each year for your anniversary
  • Free first checked bag - a savings of up to $160 per roundtrip. Terms Apply.
  • Up to $120 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS fee credit
  • 25% back as a statement credit on purchases of food, beverages and Wi-Fi on board United-operated flights and on Club premium drinks when you pay with your Explorer Card
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 21.24% - 28.24% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

United MileagePlus Frequent Flyer Program

LIMITED TIME OFFER
United Club℠ Infinite Card
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Perfect for frequent United flyers who want premium perks like United Club access and free baggage benefits.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)
Perfect for frequent United flyers who want premium perks like United Club access and free baggage benefits.
Earn 90,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
90,000 miles
$1,080
$525
21.24% - 28.24% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Excellent (740-850)
Why We Like This Card

The United Club℠ Infinite Card is a premium card designed for the most dedicated of United frequent flyers who are looking for a card that provides the opportunity to earn extra United MileagePlus miles and receive lounge access via a yearly United Club membership.

United frequent flyers will find that the United Club Infinite card provides an enhanced experience on their United flights thanks to the money saved on each flight and the conveniences it provides.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 4x miles per $1 on United purchases
  • 2x miles per $1 on travel and dining purchases
  • Complimentary United Club membership (up to $650 value per year)
Cons
  • $525 annual fee
  • Does not earn transferable rewards
Card Highlights
  • Limited-time Offer: Earn 90,000 bonus miles
  • 4x miles on United® purchases
  • 2x miles on all other travel and dining
  • 1x mile on all other purchases
  • United Club℠ membership - up to $650 value per year
  • Free first and second checked bags - a savings of up to $360 per roundtrip (terms apply) - and Premier Access® travel services
  • Earn up to 10,000 Premier qualifying points per calendar year (25 PQP for every $500 you spend on purchases)
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 21.24% - 28.24% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
LIMITED TIME OFFER
United Quest℠ Card
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The United Quest card is a fantastic option for United flyers looking to earn more miles and enhance their flights.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)
The United Quest card is a fantastic option for United flyers looking to earn more miles and enhance their flights.
Earn 70,000 bonus miles and 500 Premier qualifying points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
70,000 miles
$840
$250
21.24% - 28.24% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
Why We Like This Card

The newest addition to United’s lineup of cards is the United Quest℠ Card. With it, you can bolster your United MileagePlus miles, thanks to the bonus categories, while enjoying the card’s many perks designed to help save you money on each United flight.

With an annual fee that falls between the United℠ Explorer Card and United Club℠ Infinite Card, the United Quest card makes for a fantastic card option for United frequent flyers.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 3x miles per $1 on United purchases
  • 2x miles per $1 spent on travel, dining, and select streaming services
  • $125 annual United credit
Cons
  • Does not earn transferable rewards
  • Does not offer airport lounge access
Card Highlights
  • Limited-time Offer: Earn 70,000 bonus miles and 500 PQP
  • 3x miles on United® purchases
  • 2x miles on all other travel, dining, and select streaming services
  • 1x mile on all other purchases
  • Up to a $125 United® purchase credit and up to 10,000 miles in award flight credits each year (terms apply)
  • Free first and second checked bags - a savings of up to $360 per roundtrip (terms apply) - and priority boarding
  • Earn up to 6,000 Premier qualifying points per calendar year (25 PQP for every $500 you spend on purchases)
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 21.24% - 28.24% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
LIMITED TIME OFFER
United Gateway℠ Card
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The United Gateway card is a great option for those looking to earn more United miles without paying an annual fee.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)
The United Gateway card is a great option for those looking to earn more United miles without paying an annual fee.
Earn 30,000 bonus miles after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open. Plus, 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases. Learn more.
30,000 miles
$360
$0
0% Intro APR on Purchases for 12 months; after that, 21.24% - 28.24% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
Why We Like This Card

The United Gateway℠ Card is a great option for those looking to earn more United miles without wanting to pay a credit card annual fee. Plus, the card offers other solid benefits like a 25% back on United inflight purchases, purchase protection, and rental car insurance.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 2x miles per $1 on United purchases
  • 2x miles per $1 at gas stations and on local transit and commuting, including rideshare services, taxicabs, train tickets, tolls, and mass transit
  • 1x mile per $1 on all other purchases
Cons
  • If you are a frequent United flyer, other cards offer more perks
  • It does not earn transferable rewards
Card Highlights
  • Limited-time Offer: Earn 30,000 bonus miles
  • No annual fee
  • 2x miles on United® purchases
  • 2x miles at gas stations
  • 2x miles on local transit and commuting
  • 1x mile on all other purchases
  • 25% back as a statement credit on purchases of food, beverages and Wi-Fi on board United-operated flights and on Club premium drinks when you pay with your Gateway Card
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 0% Intro APR on Purchases for 12 months; after that, 21.24% - 28.24% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
United Club℠ Business Card
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The United Club Business card is a great option for frequent United flyers looking for United Club access.

The United Club Business card is a great option for frequent United flyers looking for United Club access.
Earn 50,000 bonus miles + 1,000 Premier qualifying points (PQP) after $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
50,000 miles
$600
$450
21.99%–28.99% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
Why We Like This Card

The United Club℠ Business Card is a premium card option for dedicated United loyalists seeking a card that offers complimentary United Club access, helps them earn and retain status, and doesn’t skip on the benefits.

From free checked bags to upgrades on award tickets and the ability to earn Premier qualifying points, there is plenty to the United Club Business card that United flyers are sure to love.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 2x miles per $1 spent on United purchases
  • 1.5x miles per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Complimentary United Club membership
Cons
  • $450 annual fee
  • Earning rate for United purchases is poor compared to other United cards
Card Highlights
  • Earn 50,000 bonus miles + 1,000 Premier qualifying points (PQP) after $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open
  • Earn 2x miles on United purchases
  • Earn 1.5x miles on all other purchases
  • Employee cards at no additional cost
  • United Club membership — up to a $650 value per year. Relax in comfort while waiting for your flight with complimentary beverages, snacks, high-speed Wi-Fi, and more
  • Free first and second checked bags for you and a companion, save up to $320 per round-trip
  • 25% back on United inflight purchases
  • No foreign transaction fees
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 21.99%–28.99% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: $0

Other Options for Booking Lufthansa

There are several other Star Alliance partners that can provide decent award redemptions. Some other programs you might want to check out are Aegean Airlines Miles+Bonus and Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles.

Great Lufthansa Business Class Redemptions

Miles & More sometimes runs award sales called Mileage Bargains. These deals are some of the best ways to use Miles & More to book a Lufthansa business class ticket on transatlantic flights.

Rather than the standard 112,000 miles required, you can potentially fly round-trip in business class for just 56,000 miles!

If you’re getting creative with your travel and are looking for fun ways to use your Miles & More miles, you can book business class from Germany to Africa or the Caribbean using Mileage Bargains for an utterly massive discount.

We’re talking about redeeming 18,000 to 32,000 miles instead of 70,000 to 127,000 miles, literally up to 80% off!

Just bear in mind that you will still be on the hook for carrier-imposed surcharges.

But let’s assume you’re booking a simple, nonstop round-trip flight between the U.S. and Germany in business class. Here’s the table comparing all of the mileage costs:

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Route (Round-Trip)

ANA Miles Cost

Lufthansa Miles and More Cost

Avianca LifeMiles Cost

Air Canada Aeroplan Points Cost

Asiana Club Miles Cost

United Miles Cost

U.S. to Germany

88,000 + $1,581

112,000 + $1,581

126,000 + $77

120,000 to 140,000 + $81

80,000 + $1,581

From 154,000 + $11

A one-way award from the U.S. will include roughly $750 in taxes and fees while a one-way from Germany to the U.S. will be around $450. Depending on your origin in Europe, the taxes and fees will vary.

As you can tell, the best round-trip deal is Asiana Club (with Marriott Bonvoy points) or ANA miles (with Amex points), though both come with huge fuel surcharges.

If you have a pile of Chase Ultimate Rewards points, it’s a no-brainer to transfer them to Air Canada Aeroplan. Don’t forget you can add a stopover for 5,000 miles extra.

With Citi ThankYou Rewards, the best transfer partner is Avianca LifeMiles. The same is true if you have Capital One miles since LifeMiles has a much-improved 1:1 transfer ratio.

Here are each frequent flyer programs’ stopover and open-jaw regulations:

  • ANA Mileage Club allows 1 complimentary open-jaw and 1 stopover on all award bookings
  • Avianca LifeMiles doesn’t allow stopovers at all
  • Air Canada Aeroplan allows 1 complimentary stopover for an extra 5,000 miles, even on one-way bookings
  • Miles & More may allow stopovers and open-jaws, but you must contact your local Miles & More service team to get information about its policies
  • Asiana Club offers has complicated stopover rules for its partner airlines that would generally only apply for longer itineraries (you may end up paying more in miles)
  • United MileagePlus has the Excursionist Perk, which allows a stopover on select itineraries

Here are some fantastic redemptions you can make from the U.S. to Germany:

  • Boston (BOS) – Frankfurt (FRA) – Dusseldorf (DUS) one-way in Lufthansa business class with a stopover in Frankfurt for 60,000 Aeroplan points + ~$41 in taxes and fees
  • Chicago (ORD) – Frankfurt (FRA) one-way in Lufthansa business class for 56,000 Miles & More miles + $750 in taxes and fees
  • Denver (DEN) – Munich (MUC) one-way in Lufthansa business class for 40,000 Asiana miles + $750 in taxes and fees
  • Los Angeles (LAX) – Munich (MUC) – Berlin (BER) round-trip in Lufthansa business class with a stopover in Munich for 88,000 ANA miles + $1,581 in taxes and fees
  • Miami (MIA) – Frankfurt (FRA) one-way in Lufthansa business class for 63,000 LifeMiles  + $38 in taxes and fees
  • San Francisco (SFO) – Frankfurt (FRA) one-way in Lufthansa business class from 77,000 United miles + $5.60 in taxes and fees

How To Earn Enough Miles for Lufthansa Business Class

If you want to book Lufthansa business class, there’s an almost overwhelming number of ways you can go about this.

And it’s also complicated by the fact that Lufthansa levies humongous fuel surcharges, forcing you to think about the trade-offs of redeeming more points versus spending more on taxes and fees.

If you’re looking for the absolute best deal with Amex points, you’ll redeem just 88,000 points for round-trip business class, though that comes with a total taxes and fees of $1,581.

If you want to avoid fuel surcharges, both Air Canada Aeroplan and Avianca LifeMiles will help you achieve this. Aeroplan is the best option to use for all itineraries under 4,000 miles in total flight distance, costing 60,000 points one-way; Avianca LifeMiles is the best option for all other itineraries, coming in at 63,000 LifeMiles one-way.

Chase Ultimate Rewards points are best transferred to Aeroplan or United MileagePlus, though we recommend Aeroplan to redeem fewer points.

Capital One Miles or Citi ThankYou Rewards loyalists should use LifeMiles due to the 1:1 ratio.

Now, let’s spell out all of the possible transfer partners:

  • American Express transfers to ANA Mileage Club (3 business days), Avianca LifeMiles (instantly), and Air Canada Aeroplan (instantly) at a 1:1 ratio.
  • Brex Rewards transfers to Avianca LifeMiles instantly at a 1:1 ratio.
  • Chase Ultimate Rewards transfers to both Air Canada Aeroplan and United MileagePlus instantly at a 1:1 ratio.
  • Citi ThankYou Rewards transfers to Avianca LifeMiles instantly at a 1:1 ratio.
  • Capital One Miles transfers almost instantly to Avianca LifeMiles and Air Canada Aeroplan at a 1:1 ratio.
  • Marriott Bonvoy transfers to Avianca LifeMiles (1 day), Air Canada Aeroplan (5 days), ANA Mileage Club (4 days), Asiana Club (4 days), and United (3 days) at a 3:1 ratio. When transferring to United, you’ll get a 10,000-mile bonus for every 60,000 points transferred.

It’s also important to note that Amex, Brex, and Citi have all offered transfer bonuses of 15% to 30% to LifeMiles in the past.

Aeroplan transfer bonuses have been offered by Amex, though these are a bit rarer. You can almost never count on a transfer bonus to ANA Mileage Club or United MileagePlus.

Unfortunately, there is no way to transfer points to Lufthansa Miles & More, though there is a co-branded credit card issued by Barclays.

When Should You Search for Award Space?

Once you have determined when you want to travel, start your award search. Availability with Miles & More (as well as Lufthansa’s partners) is generally pretty good, though it’s not usually possible to plan extremely far out in advance.

Unlike Lufthansa first class award space, which is only released to partners about 2 weeks prior to departure, business class is available long before that, typically around 2 months in advance.

What Do You Get With Lufthansa Business Class?

While the business class cabin doesn’t have the same amazing reputation as Lufthansa first class, it does provide a comfortable long-haul option.

Lufthansa and Star Alliance Business Class Lounges

Star Alliance is the largest airline alliance in the world, which means you will have a wide selection of business class lounges to enjoy across the globe. These lounges are often quite spacious with plenty of room to work or just relax.

Lufthansa Business Class Wine and Champagne

Lufthansa Senator Lounge B Frankfurt wine selection
Enjoy fine wine and Champagne on your next long-haul flight in the business class cabin on Lufthansa. Image Credit: Daniel Ross

Even though you’re just in business class, Lufthansa still provides Champagne and a nice selection of wine to make your flight a little bit more enjoyable.

Lufthansa has also unveiled new German-inspired menus for short- and medium-haul routes.

Lufthansa Welcome Lounge in Frankfurt

Lufthansa-Welcome-Lounge-Shower
Start your trip off right with a shower in the Lufthansa Welcome Lounge at the Frankfurt airport. Image Credit: Lufthansa

If you are flying into Frankfurt, Germany, you will have access to the Lufthansa Business Class Lounge. Here you can enjoy a meal, some quiet time, or even do a little work before starting your day in Frankfurt.

Perhaps the best perk of the Lufthansa Welcome Lounge is the showers. After a long flight, a shower can be just what you need to freshen up before a meeting or a German adventure!

Final Thoughts

Let’s be clear: this business class cabin is not at the same level as Cathay Pacific, Qatar Airways, or Singapore Airlines. That being said, if you are looking for a comfortable seat on a long-haul flight (and maybe some Champagne!), Lufthansa business class will suit you just fine.

For more ideas on how you can maximize your Miles & More miles, check out our piece on the absolute best ways to redeem them.

The information regarding the Chase Freedom Flex℠ was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the Citi Premier® Card has expired and the card is no longer open to applicants.
The information regarding the Citi Rewards+® Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the Citi Double Cash® Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the Citi Custom Cash® Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the United Club℠ Business Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express, click here.
For rates and fees of the American Express® Gold Card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® Card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® card, click here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to book Lufthansa business class?

The best way to book Lufthansa business class depends on your current points and cash situation.

If you want the cheapest cost in miles, Asiana Club or ANA Mileage Club are great options. If you’d like to book Lufthansa business class without the carrier-imposed surcharges, Avianca LifeMiles or Air Canada Aeroplan is an excellent choice.

What credit cards can help me earn miles to fly Lufthansa business class?

To get ANA miles and book Lufthansa business class with those miles, earn Amex Membership Rewards points.

To get Air Canada Aeroplan points, earn Chase Ultimate Rewards points.

To get Avianca LifeMiles, earn Citi ThankYou Rewards Points or Capital One miles.

To earn Asiana Club miles, earn Marriott Bonvoy points.

To earn Miles & More miles, use the Lufthansa credit card from Barclays.

To earn United miles, use cards that earn Chase Ultimate Rewards points or Chase’s co-branded United cards.

What do I get when I fly Lufthansa business class?

Lufthansa business class provides a comfortable lie-flat seat. If you choose a seat in the middle section of the cabin, you’ll have direct aisle access.

Additionally, you will have access to the Lufthansa and Star Alliance business class lounges.

Does Lufthansa give pajamas in business class?

Currently, Lufthansa only gives pajamas to first class passengers, not business class travelers.

Does Lufthansa business class have flat-beds?

Yes, Lufthansa’s long-haul business class consists of flat-bed seats that recline completely.

Spencer Howard's image

About Spencer Howard

Always a fan of flying, it was only natural that Spencer was drawn to finding a way to improve the travel experience.

Like many, he started this journey searching for cheap flights to take him around the world. This was fun for a while, but Spencer was intrigued by the idea of flying in business and first class!

Throwing himself into what became an extensive research project, Spencer spent 3-4 hours per night learning everything he could about frequent flyer miles over the course of several months (he thinks this is normal). He runs Straight to the Points, an award-seat alert platform.

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