The Best Ways To Fly to Europe With Points and Miles [Step by Step]

Europe is one of the most popular transatlantic destinations for travelers from the U.S. Economy round-trip airfare can regularly exceed $1,500 during peak travel season, but points and miles can significantly offset that cost.

This page covers 7 loyalty programs for booking award flights between the U.S. and Europe, including a comparison of their pricing, partner coverage, surcharge policies, and earning options.

Quick Overview: Best Ways To Fly to Europe With Points

We’ll discuss 7 programs for booking flights to Europe with points and miles.

• Air Canada Aeroplan has flights from 35,000 points in economy and 60,000 in business one-way.
• Air France-KLM Flying Blue tickets are available from 25,000 miles one-way in economy and 60,000 in business.
• American Airlines AAdvantage economy flights start at 22,500 miles, while awards start at 57,500 one-way in business.
• Avianca Lifemiles one-way awards start at 35,000 miles in economy and 63,000 in business.
• ANA Mileage Club has awards from 55,000 miles and 100,000 miles round-trip.
• Korean Air SKYPASS has round-trip awards for 50,000 and 80,000 miles.
• Virgin Atlantic Flying Club has one-way awards from 6,000 points in economy and 29,000 in business class.

For taxes and fees on these awards, Avianca Lifemiles and Air Canada Aeroplan do not add fuel surcharges on partner redemptions, Flying Blue and Korean Air SKYPASS pass along carrier-imposed surcharges, and surcharges with American AAdvantage and Virgin Atlantic Flying Club vary depending on the operating airline. Flying Blue’s Promo Rewards offer periodic discounts of 25% to 50% off standard award pricing on a rotating monthly selection of routes. Korean Air SKYPASS has no transferable currency partners, meaning miles can only be earned through flights or co-branded credit cards.

The Best Programs for Booking Flights to Europe Right Now

• American Express^® Gold Card: Earns 4 points per $1 spent at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets, with points transferring 1:1 to Air Canada Aeroplan and Flying Blue, where business class to Europe starts at 60,000 miles one-way.
• Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card: Points transfer 1:1 to Air Canada Aeroplan and Flying Blue, covering one-way business class to Europe from 60,000 miles.
• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: Miles transfer 1:1 to Avianca Lifemiles, where one-way business class to Europe starts at 63,000 miles with no fuel surcharges.
• Citi Strata Premier℠ Card: Points transfer 1:1 to American AAdvantage and Flying Blue, with AAdvantage fixed-rate partner business class to Europe available from 57,500 miles one-way.
• Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card: Earns 5 points per $1 on hotels; points transfer 1:1 to Flying Blue and Avianca Lifemiles, with business class to Europe available from 60,000 and 63,000 miles, respectively.

Best Programs for Award Flights to Europe: At a Glance

Before getting into the details, here’s an overview of each program, one-way award costs (in miles), and its transfer partners.

*You must book round-trip awards with SKYPASS, but we have provided one-way pricing (half the cost of round-trip awards) for the sake of comparison.

Best Programs for Booking Award Flights to Europe

Routes between the U.S. and Europe are operated by a wide range of carriers across multiple airline alliances. Before booking, check current ETIAS authorization requirements and Schengen Area entry rules. The sections below cover how to use loyalty programs to book economy, business, and first class award flights to Europe.

Hot Tip:

We mainly discuss one-way award prices, but remember that a few award programs still require booking round-trip award tickets. We’ll highlight that when it’s a requirement.

Air Canada Aeroplan

Air Canada Aeroplan is a Star Alliance program with partner airline coverage that includes United, Lufthansa, SWISS, Singapore Airlines, and Turkish Airlines for flights between the U.S. and Europe.

The program uses a combination of distance-based and region-based pricing. For partner airline redemptions, the cost depends on flight distance: The shortest U.S.-Europe routes (up to 4,000 miles) start at 35,000 miles in economy and 60,000 miles in business one-way, while longer routes (8,001 or more miles) cost up to 70,000 miles in economy and 110,000 miles in business. Aeroplan does not levy fuel surcharges on partner airline redemptions. The program also allows stopovers for 5,000 additional points.

Air Canada Aeroplan divides the world into 4 zones: North America, the Atlantic, the Pacific, and South America. The award chart combines region-based and distance-based pricing. Here is the award pricing for flights between the U.S. and the Atlantic zone (which covers all of Europe), listed in points required:

Example redemptions:

• New York (JFK) to Frankfurt (FRA) for 60,000 Aeroplan points plus taxes and fees in Singapore Airlines B777 business class
• Chicago (ORD) to Zurich (ZRH) for 70,000 Aeroplan points plus taxes and fees in SWISS business class
• Miami (MIA) to Istanbul (IST) for 70,000 Aeroplan points plus taxes and fees in Turkish Airlines business class

How to book:

1. Go to Air Canada Aeroplan’s homepage.
2. Click the button labeled “Sign in” at the top-right corner. Type in your Aeroplan number and password. Click “Sign in.”
3. On the redirected page, enter your travel dates, trip type, origin and destination airports, number of travelers, and desired booking class. Be sure to click “Book with Aeroplan points” before searching.
4. Click “Search” and select your flights. Pay with miles and use a credit card to cover the taxes and fees.

Earning Air Canada Aeroplan Points

American Express Membership Rewards, Bilt Rewards, Capital One miles, and Chase Ultimate Rewards all transfer to Aeroplan at a 1:1 ratio. Marriott Bonvoy points transfer at a 3:1 ratio, with a 5,000-point bonus for every 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points transferred at once.

You can also get the Aeroplan^® Credit Card, which earns 3 points per $1 spent on dining, groceries, and Air Canada purchases and 1 point per $1 everywhere else.

Recommended Capital One Cards

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs 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 Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.

Welcome Offer

Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

75,000 miles

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,350

Annual Fee

$395

APR

Purchases: 19.49% - 28.49% (Variable)

Credit Recommended

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 card application.

Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the premium Capital One travel rewards card on the block.

Points and miles fans will be surprised to see that the Capital One Venture X card packs quite the punch when it comes to bookings made through Capital One, all while offering the lowest annual fee among premium credit cards.

Depending on your travel goals and preferences, the Capital One Venture X card could very well end up being your go-to card in your wallet.

 

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 10x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars purchased through Capital One Travel
• 5x miles per $1 on flights and vacation rentals purchased through Capital One Travel
• 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• $395 annual fee
• Does not offer bonus categories for flights or hotel purchases made directly with the airline or hotel group, the preferred booking method for those looking to earn elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
• Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
• Enjoy access to 1,300+ lounges worldwide, including Capital One Lounge and Landing locations and participating Priority Pass™ lounges, after enrollment
• Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection
• Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck^®
• Top rated mobile app

Financial Snapshot

• APR: Purchases: 19.49% - 28.49% (Variable)
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

 

LIMITED-TIME ONLY

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs 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.

Get 2x miles plus some of the most flexible redemptions offered by a travel credit card!

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Get 2x miles plus some of the most flexible redemptions offered by a travel credit card!

Welcome Offer

Enjoy $250 to use on Capital One Travel in your first cardholder year, plus earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening - that’s equal to $1,000 in travel.

75,000 miles + $250 Capital One Travel credit

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,600

Annual Fee

$95

APR

Purchases: 19.49% - 28.49% (Variable)

Credit Recommended

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 card application.

Good to Excellent Credit

Why We Like This Card

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is one of the most popular rewards cards on the market. It’s perfect for anyone in search of a great welcome offer, high rewards rates, and flexible redemption options.

Frequent travelers with excellent credit may benefit from this credit card that offers a lot of bells and whistles. And it offers easy-to-understand rewards earning and redemption.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 5x miles per $1 on hotels, vacation rentals, and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases
• Up to a $120 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit

Cons

• $95 annual fee
• Limited elite benefits

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• LIMITED-TIME OFFER: Enjoy $250 to use on Capital One Travel in your first cardholder year, plus earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening - that’s equal to $1,000 in travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
• Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
• Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck^®
• Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
• Enjoy a $50 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Lifestyle Collection
• Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Top rated mobile app

Financial Snapshot

• APR: Purchases: 19.49% - 28.49% (Variable)
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs 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 card offers unlimited miles at 1.25x per $1 and no annual fee. When you consider the flexible rewards, frequent travelers come out on top.

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

The card offers unlimited miles at 1.25x per $1 and no annual fee. When you consider the flexible rewards, frequent travelers come out on top.

Welcome Offer

Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel.

20,000 miles

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$200

Annual Fee

$0

APR

Purchases: 0% intro APR on purchases for 15 months; variable 18.49% - 28.49% thereafter

Credit Recommended

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 card application.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

Interested in a travel rewards credit card without one of those pesky annual fees? Then say hello to the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card.

In addition to no annual fee, the Capital One VentureOne card offers no foreign transaction fees.

But is this card worth its salt, or is it merely a shell of the more popular Capital One Venture card?

Pros & Cons

Pros

• No annual fee
• No foreign transaction fees
• Ability to use transfer partners

Cons

• Weak earn rate at 1.25x miles per $1 spent on all purchases
• No luxury travel or elite benefits

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel
• $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
• Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day
• Miles won’t expire for the life of the account and there’s no limit to how many you can earn
• Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
• Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 18.49% – 28.49% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies
• Top rated mobile app

Financial Snapshot

• APR: Purchases: 0% intro APR on purchases for 15 months; variable 18.49% - 28.49% thereafter
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

Recommended Aeroplan^® Credit Card

Aeroplan^® Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs 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 Aeroplan card is a great option for Air Canada flyers looking to earn more points and receive automatic elite status.

Aeroplan^® Credit Card

The Aeroplan card is a great option for Air Canada flyers looking to earn more points and receive automatic elite status.

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.

60,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$900

Annual Fee

$95

APR

19.74% - 28.24% Variable

Credit Recommended

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 card application.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

Flyers based in the U.S. may think they wouldn’t have a need for a card like the Aeroplan^® Credit Card, it might be much better suited for you than you think.

Not only does Air Canada offer fantastic award redemptions, but adding the card to your wallet makes the program even more rewarding by offering elite status, more points, travel coverage, and more. Let’s take a closer look and see why the Aeroplan card might make a lot of sense for you.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 3x points per $1 on Air Canada purchases, at grocery stores, and dining at restaurants (including takeout and eligible delivery services)
• 500 bonus points for every $2,000 you spend in a calendar month (up to a maximum of 1,500 bonus points)
• Receive Aeroplan 25K status for the remainder of the calendar year, plus the following calendar year, and continue to extend it beyond that by spending $15,000 on the card per calendar year

Cons

• $95 annual fee
• Does not earn transferable rewards

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 60,000 bonus points
• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
• $95 Annual Fee
• Redeem points for both international and domestic flights with the Aeroplan^® Credit Card.
• Fly to another continent and travel the world with the Aeroplan^® Credit Card.
• Earn 3X points for each dollar spent at grocery stores, on dining at restaurants, and Air Canada directly. Earn 1X point for each dollar spent on all other purchases.
• 500 bonus points for every $2,000 you spend in a calendar month - up to 1,500 points per month.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.74% - 28.24% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Air France-KLM Flying Blue

Flying Blue is the loyalty program for Air France and KLM, both SkyTeam members, with additional partner redemptions available on select other airlines.

Flying Blue uses variable award pricing with a minimum price. Economy redemptions between the U.S. and Europe start at 25,000 miles one-way, and business class redemptions start at 60,000 miles one-way. The program adds carrier-imposed surcharges to award redemptions; these are higher for premium cabin bookings. The best approach is to use Flying Blue’s award calculator and search for the lowest available pricing.

Flying Blue’s Promo Rewards offer discounts of 25% to 50% off standard award pricing on a rotating selection of routes each month. These discounts apply only to Air France and KLM flights — not partner airlines — and are subject to limited availability and specific advance booking windows.

Example redemptions:

• Atlanta (ATL) to Frankfurt (FRA) one-way in Delta One for 60,000 Flying Blue miles plus taxes and fees
• Houston (IAH) to Amsterdam (AMS) one-way in KLM business class from 60,000 Flying Blue miles plus taxes and fees
• New York City (JFK) to Paris (CDG) one-way in Air France business class from 60,000 Flying Blue miles plus taxes and fees

How to book:

1. Visit Air France’s U.S. website.
2. Log in to your Flying Blue account.
3. Click “Book with Miles.”
4. Fill in the search box and click “Search flights.”
5. Choose the desired flight, enter the travelers’ personal information, use your Flying Blue miles, and supply a credit card to pay for any taxes and fees.

Earning Flying Blue Miles

American Express Membership Rewards, Bilt Rewards, Capital One miles, Chase Ultimate Rewards, Citi ThankYou Rewards, Rove Miles, and Wells Fargo Rewards all transfer to Flying Blue at a 1:1 ratio. Brex Rewards transfers at a 3:2 ratio. Marriott Bonvoy points transfer at a 3:1 ratio, with a 5,000-mile bonus when transferring 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points in a single transaction. Citi ThankYou Points transfer at 1:0.7 with no-annual-fee Citi cards.

Recommended Chase Cards

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Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs 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)

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

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

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

60,000 75,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,500

Annual Fee

$95

APR

19.24% - 27.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

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 card application.

Good to Excellent

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
• 3x points on dining purchases, online grocery purchases, and select streaming services
• 2x points on all other travel worldwide

Cons

• $95 annual fee
• No elite benefits like airport lounge access or hotel elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 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
• Earn up to $50 in statement credits each account anniversary year for hotel stays through Chase Travel℠
• 10% anniversary points boost - each account anniversary you'll earn bonus points equal to 10% of your total purchases made the previous year.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Complimentary DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees & lower service fees for a min. of one year when you activate by 12/31/27. Plus, a $10 promo each month on non-restaurant orders.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.24% - 27.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

NEW OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs 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 points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

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

Welcome Offer

Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

125,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$2,500

Annual Fee

$795

APR

19.49% - 27.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

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 card application.

Excellent

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.

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

Don’t forget the more than $2,000 in annual credits, which can offset the annual fee!

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 8x points on all Chase Travel purchases
• 5x points on Lyft rides
• 4x points on flights and hotels booked directly

Cons

• $795 annual fee

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• Get more than $2,700 in annual value with Sapphire Reserve.
• Earn 8x points on all purchases through Chase Travel℠, including The Edit℠ and 4x points on flights and hotels booked direct. Plus, earn 3x points on dining worldwide & 1x points on all other purchases
• $300 annual travel credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Access over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide with a complimentary Priority Pass™ Select membership, plus every Chase Sapphire Lounge^® by The Club with two guests. Plus, up to $120 towards Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck^® every 4 years
• Get up to $150 in statement credits every six months for a maximum of $300 annually for dining at restaurants that are part of Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Coverage, Lost Luggage Insurance, no foreign transaction fees, and more.
• Get complimentary Apple TV+, the exclusive streaming home of Apple Originals. Plus Apple Music — all the music you love, across all your devices. Subscriptions run through 6/22/27 — a value of $250 annually
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.49% - 27.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

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Chase Ultimate Rewards

Are you a small business owner? Read our article on the best Chase business cards that earn Ultimate Rewards.

American Airlines AAdvantage

American AAdvantage enables award bookings on American Airlines and Oneworld alliance partners, including British Airways, Iberia, and Finnair, for routes between the U.S. and Europe.

Partner award pricing is fixed rather than dynamic with AAdvantage miles. Off-peak economy costs 22,500 miles one-way, standard economy 30,000 miles, and business class 57,500 miles one-way. Taxes and fees vary significantly by operating airline. Charges are generally low on American-operated flights but can be substantial on certain partners, such as British Airways.

Here is the one-way award pricing for partner-operated flights between the U.S. and Europe:

*Note that AA’s award chart also includes Morocco in Europe, which provides some great redemptions with Royal Air Maroc, based in Morocco and a Oneworld member airline.

Hot Tip:

Check out our in-depth guide on the best ways to search for Oneworld award availability.

Example redemptions:

• Dallas (DFW) to Paris (CDG) one-way in American Airlines business class for 57,500 AA miles plus taxes and fees
• Miami (MIA) to Helsinki (HEL) one-way in Finnair business class one-way for 57,500 AA miles plus taxes and fees
• New York (JFK) to Madrid (MAD) one-way in Iberia business class for 57,500 AA miles plus taxes and fees
• San Diego (SAN) to London (LHR) one-way in British Airways business class for 57,500 AA miles plus taxes and fees

How to book:

1. Visit the American Airlines website.
2. You’ll see a search box on the homepage. Check off the box that says “Redeem miles.”
3. Fill out the search box and click “Search.“
4. Find your desired flight.
5. Enter the traveler details, pay with AAdvantage miles, and use a credit card for any taxes and fees incurred.

Earning American Airlines AAdvantage Miles

Citi ThankYou Rewards transfers to AAdvantage at a 1:1 ratio with premium Citi cards (1:0.7 with no-annual-fee cards). Marriott Bonvoy transfers at a 3:1 ratio. Additional earning options include welcome bonuses and daily spending on American Airlines co-branded credit cards.

ANA Mileage Club

ANA Mileage Club is a Star Alliance program with competitive fixed pricing for partner airline redemptions between North America and Europe.

Partner award pricing is fixed and round-trip. Economy between North America (Zone 6) and Europe (Zone 7) costs 55,000 miles round-trip, and business class costs 100,000 miles round-trip. Fuel surcharges are not applied to some partners, including Turkish Airlines, LOT Polish Airlines, and United Airlines; surcharges for other partners vary.

Here is the round-trip pricing for Star Alliance flights between North America (Zone 6) and Europe (Zone 7):

Example redemptions:

• Atlanta (ATL) to Istanbul (IST) round-trip in Turkish business class for 100,000 ANA miles plus taxes and fees
• Chicago (ORD) to Paris (CDG) round-trip in United Polaris class for 100,000 ANA miles plus taxes and fees
• Los Angeles (LAX) to Warsaw (WAW) round-trip in LOT Polish business class for 100,000 ANA miles plus taxes and fees
• Washington, D.C. (IAD), to London (LHR) round-trip in United Polaris class for 100,000 ANA miles plus taxes and fees

How to book:

We recommend doing your initial award availability search on United’s website for easier use, then finishing with ANA.

1. Go to United’s homepage and perform your award search.
2. Write down the flight details and schedule.
3. Go to ANA’s U.S. website.
4. Click “Award Booking” in the search box.
5. Log in to your ANA account. On the redirected page, enter your search details. Click “Search.“
6. Choose the flight that matches your desired booking. Redeem your ANA miles and use a credit card for taxes and fees.

Hot Tip:

Although ANA Mileage Club offers good award pricing (round-trip business-class awards for 100,000 miles), the program levies fuel surcharges that can be hundreds of dollars on many Star Alliance partner airlines.

Earning ANA Mileage Club Miles

American Express Membership Rewards transfers to ANA at a 1:1 ratio. Marriott Bonvoy points transfer at a 3:1 ratio, with a 5,000-mile bonus for every 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points transferred at once. The co-branded ANA CARD U.S.A. Plus earns ANA miles directly but carries a low (or no) welcome offer and limited earning rates on purchases.

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Platinum Card^® from American Express

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs 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.

Platinum Card^® from American Express

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

Welcome Offer

You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $12,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.  

As High As 175,000 Points. Find Out Your Offer.

UP's Offer Valuation*:

Up to $3,850

Annual Fee

$895

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Recommended

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 card application.

Good to Excellent

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 1,550 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges (enrollment required), 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
• Annual and monthly statement credits upon enrollment (airline credit, Uber Cash and Uber One, Resy, lululemon credit, streaming credit, prepaid hotel credit on eligible stays, Walmart+ credit, CLEAR+ credit, and Equinox credit)
• TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit
• Access to American Express Fine Hotels and Resorts and Amex International Airline Program
• Access to Amex transfer partners
• No foreign transaction fees (rates and fees)

 

Cons

• $895 annual fee (rates and fees)
• Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)

 

 

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $12,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
• Get more for your travels with 5X Membership Rewards^® points on all flights and prepaid hotel bookings through American Express Travel^®, including Fine Hotels + Resorts^® and The Hotel Collection bookings. You earn 5X points on flights purchased directly from airlines or through American Express Travel^® on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
• With over 1,550 airport lounges - more than any other credit card company on the market* - enjoy the benefits of the Global Lounge Collection^®, over $850 of annual value, with access to Centurion Lounges, 10 complimentary Delta Sky Club^® visits when flying on an eligible Delta flight (subject to visit limitations), Priority Pass Select membership (enrollment required), and other select partner lounges.* As of 07/2025.
• $200 Uber Cash + $120 Uber One Credit: With the Platinum Card^® you can receive $15 in Uber Cash each month plus a bonus $20 in December when you add your Platinum Card^® to your Uber account to use on rides and orders in the U.S when you select an Amex Card for your transaction. Plus, when you use the Platinum Card^® to pay for an auto-renewing Uber One membership, you can get up to $120 in statement credits each calendar year. Terms apply.
• $300 Digital Entertainment Credit: Experience the latest shows, news and recipes. Get up to $25 in statement credits each month when you use your Platinum Card^® for eligible purchases on Disney+, a Disney+ bundle, ESPN streaming services, Hulu, The New York Times, Paramount+, Peacock, The Wall Street Journal, YouTube Premium, and YouTube TV when you purchase directly from one or more of the providers. Enrollment required.
• $600 Hotel Credit: Get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts^® or The Hotel Collection* bookings through American Express Travel^® using the Platinum Card^®. *The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• $400 Resy Credit + Platinum Nights by Resy: Get up to $100 in statement credits each quarter when you use the Platinum Card^® to make eligible purchases with Resy, including dining purchases at U.S. Resy restaurants. Enrollment required. Plus, with Platinum Nights by Resy, you can get special access to reservations on select nights at participating in demand Resy restaurants with the Platinum Card^®. Simply add your eligible Card to your Resy profile to book and discover Platinum Nights reservations near you.
• $209 CLEAR+ Credit: CLEAR+ helps get you to your gate faster by using your face to verify you are you at 55+ airports nationwide. You can cover the cost of a CLEAR+ Membership* with up to $209 in statement credits per calendar year after you pay for CLEAR+ with your Platinum Card^®. *Excluding any applicable taxes and fees. Subject to auto-renewal.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees, such as checked bags and in-flight refreshments, are charged by the airline to the Platinum Card^® Account. American Express relies on airlines to submit the correct information on airline transactions to identify incidental fee purchases. If you do not see a credit for a qualifying incidental purchase on your eligible Card after 8 weeks, simply call the number on the back of your Card. Qualifying airlines are subject to change. See terms & conditions for more details.
• Start your vacation sooner, and keep it going longer. When you book Fine Hotels + Resorts^® through American Express Travel^®, enjoy noon check-in, when available, and guaranteed 4PM check-out.
• $300 lululemon Credit: Enjoy up to $75 in statement credits each quarter when you use the Platinum Card^® for eligible purchases at U.S. lululemon retail stores (excluding outlets) and lululemon.com. That’s up to $300 in statement credits each calendar year. Enrollment required.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Receive a statement credit* for one monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) after you pay for Walmart+ each month with the Platinum Card^®.* Up to $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Ups not eligible.
• Whenever you need us, we're here. Our Member Services team will ensure you are taken care of. From lost Card replacement to statement questions, we are available to help 24/7.
• $895 annual fee.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: See Pay Over Time APR
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

 

 

BEST FOR DINING

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

American Express^® Gold Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs 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.

American Express^® Gold Card

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!

Welcome Offer

You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.

As High As 100,000 Points. Find Out Your Offer.

UP's Offer Valuation*:

Up to $2,200

Annual Fee

$325

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Recommended

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 card application.

Good to Excellent

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

• $325 annual fee (rates and fees)
• No lounge access

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
• 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 get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards^® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
• $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. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
• $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.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: See Pay Over Time APR
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Avianca Lifemiles

Lifemiles is Avianca’s loyalty program, offering Star Alliance partner award redemptions with fixed pricing and no fuel surcharges on partner bookings.

Economy redemptions cost 35,000 miles one-way, business class ranges from 63,000 to 80,000 miles one-way, and first class costs 130,000 miles one-way. Taxes and fees for many Star Alliance partner bookings are typically $30 to $50 each way. No fuel surcharges are added.

Example redemptions:

• Washington, D.C. (IAD), to Frankfurt (FRA) one-way in Lufthansa first class for 120,000 Lifemiles plus taxes and fees
• New York (JFK) to Vienna (VIE) one-way in Austrian Airlines business class for 80,000 Lifemiles plus taxes and fees
• San Francisco (SFO) to Zurich (ZRH) one-way in SWISS business class for 80,000 Lifemiles plus taxes and fees
• Toronto (YYZ) to Munich (MUC) one-way in Lufthansa business class for 80,000 Lifemiles plus about $52 in taxes and fees

How to book:

1. Go to the Lifemiles website.
2. Adjust the language to English by clicking the flag icon in the top-right corner.
3. Click “Log In.”
4. Click “Use miles” near the top of the homepage, then choose “Travel with miles.”
5. Enter your origin, destination, and travel class, then choose one-way or round-trip. Put in your dates last.
6. Select what you like, redeem your Lifemiles, enter your travelers’ information, and use a credit card for taxes and fees.

Earning Avianca Lifemiles

American Express Membership Rewards, Capital One miles, and Citi ThankYou Rewards (with premium Citi cards) transfer to Lifemiles at a 1:1 ratio. Citi ThankYou transfers at 1:0.7 with no-annual-fee cards; Brex Rewards transfers at a 3:2 ratio; Marriott Bonvoy transfers at a 3:1 ratio. Wells Fargo Rewards also transfers to Lifemiles at 1:1.

There are also the Avianca Lifemiles American Express^® Card and Avianca Lifemiles American Express^® Elite Card, which earn Lifemiles directly.

Recommended Citi Cards

Citi Strata Premier℠ Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs 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.

Citi Strata Premier℠ Card

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com

60,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$960

Annual Fee

$95

APR

19.49% to 27.49% Variable

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

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at 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: 19.49% to 27.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Citi Strata Elite℠ Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs 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 Citi Strata Elite card is Citi's most premium card built for frequent travelers and foodies.

Citi Strata Elite℠ Card

The Citi Strata Elite card is Citi's most premium card built for frequent travelers and foodies.

Welcome Offer

Earn 75,000 bonus ThankYou Points after spending $6,000 within the first 3 months of account opening.

75,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

Up to $1,200

Annual Fee

$595

APR

20.49% to 28.49% Variable

Why We Like This Card

The Citi Strata Elite card is a great option for frequent travelers, foodies, and those who are fans of the Citi ThankYou Rewards ecosystem thanks to its combination of bonus categories, perks, and annual credits.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 12x points on hotels, rental cars, and attractions booked through Citi Travel
• 6x points on airfare through Citi Travel
• 6x points on dining on Citi Nights (Friday and Saturday nights from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.) and 3x points on dining at all other times

Cons

• $595 annual fee
• Boosted dining rewards are limited to 2 nights per week

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 75,000 bonus ThankYou Points after spending $6,000 within the first 3 months of account opening
• 12x points on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on cititravel.com
• 6x points on air travel booked on cititravel.com
• 6x points at restaurants, including restaurant delivery services, every Friday and Saturday from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. ET, and 3x points any other time
• 1.5x points on all other purchases
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
• Up to $300 annual hotel benefit
• Up to $200 annual Splurge credit
• Up to $200 annual Blacklane credit
• 4 American Airlines Admirals Club passes every calendar year
• Transfer Citi ThankYou Points to partners like American Airlines
• Complimentary Priority Pass membership
• No foreign transaction fees

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.49% to 28.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Citi Strata℠ Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs 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.

Citi Strata℠ Card

Welcome Offer

Earn 20,000 points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months.

20,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$320

Annual Fee

$0

APR

0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months, and then a variable APR 18.49% to 28.49%.

Credit Recommended

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 card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Citi Strata card offers a fresh way to earn Citi ThankYou Points with a $0 annual fee, allowing you to maximize your spend at gas stations, supermarkets, and more.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 5x points on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on CitiTravel.com
• 3x points at supermarkets, select transit, gas and EV charging stations, and an eligible self-select category of your choice (fitness clubs, select streaming services, live entertainment, cosmetic stores/barber shops/hair salon or pet supply stores)
• 2x points at restaurants

Cons

• Doesn’t offer the best transfer ratio to Citi’s airline and hotel partners
• Charges foreign transaction fees

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 20,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months of account opening.
• Earn 5x points per $1 spent on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on CitiTravel.com.
• Earn 3x points per $1 on supermarkets, select transit, gas, and EV charging stations, and an eligible self-select category of your choice every quarter (fitness clubs, select streaming services, live entertainment, cosmetic stores/barber shops/hair salons, or pet supply stores).
• Earn 2x points per $1 at restaurants.
• Earn 1x point per $1 spent on all other purchases.
• No expiration and no limit to the amount of points you can earn with this card.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months, and then a variable APR 18.49% to 28.49%.
• Foreign Transaction Fees: 3% of the U.S. dollar amount of each purchase

Rewards Center

Citi ThankYou Rewards

Citi Double Cash^® Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs 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!

Citi Double Cash^® Card

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

Welcome Offer

Earn $200 cash-back after spending $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening.

$200 cash-back

Annual Fee

$0

APR

17.49% to 27.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

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 card application.

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

Read Full Review

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.
• Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
• 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.
• 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 17.49% to 27.49%, 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).

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 17.49% to 27.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: 3% of the U.S. dollar amount of each purchase

Rewards Center

Citi ThankYou Rewards

Korean Air SKYPASS

Korean Air SKYPASS is a SkyTeam program that enables redemptions on Delta, Air France-KLM, and other SkyTeam partners for flights between the U.S. and Europe.

Award pricing is fixed and requires round-trip booking. Economy costs 50,000 miles, business class 80,000 miles, and first class 100,000 miles round-trip. Carrier-imposed surcharges apply and vary by operating airline.

Here’s what Korean Air SKYPASS charges for round-trip flights to Europe:

Example redemptions:

• Boston (BOS) to Paris (CDG) round-trip in Air France business class for 80,000 Korean Air miles plus taxes and fees
• Detroit (DTW) to London (LHR) round-trip in Delta business class for 80,000 Korean Air miles plus taxes and fees
• Miami (MIA) to Rome (FCO) round-trip in ITA business class for 80,000 Korean Air miles plus taxes and fees
• San Francisco (SFO) to Amsterdam (AMS) round-trip in KLM business class for 80,000 Korean Air miles plus taxes and fees

How to book:

1. Visit Korean Air’s website and log in.
2. On the “Book” tab, click on “SkyTeam Awards.”
3. Here, fill in your departure, destination, and dates, then choose your class of travel.
4. Pay with your SKYPASS miles and use a credit card for taxes and fees.

Remember that SKYPASS has rules about who you can redeem miles for. These people must be added as redemption members before you can choose extra passenger quantities. Otherwise, the only option is to book for 1 passenger — yourself.

Earning Korean Air Miles

Korean Air SKYPASS has no transferable currency partners. Miles can be earned through flights on Korean Air and SkyTeam partners, or through co-branded U.S. Bank credit cards that earn SKYPASS miles directly.

Virgin Atlantic Flying Club

Virgin Atlantic Flying Club joined SkyTeam in 2023, enabling redemptions on Virgin Atlantic and partner airlines, including Delta, Air France, and KLM, for flights between the U.S. and Europe.

Virgin Atlantic uses dynamic pricing for its own flights, so the number of points required varies by route and availability. Economy redemptions start at 6,000 points one-way, premium economy from 10,000 points, and Upper Class from 29,000 points — all figures are starting prices for U.S.-London routes.

For SkyTeam partner airlines (excluding Delta and Air France-KLM), Flying Club uses a distance-based award chart; Delta and Air France-KLM redemptions follow zone- and distance-based pricing with separate peak and off-peak tiers. Surcharges on Virgin Atlantic flights can be significant, particularly in business class; fees on partner airlines vary by carrier.

Example redemptions:

• New York (JFK) to London (LHR) one-way in economy from 6,000 points plus taxes and fees
• Los Angeles (LAX) to London (LHR) one-way in premium economy from 10,000 points plus taxes and fees
• New York (JFK) to London (LHR) one-way in Virgin Atlantic Upper Class from 29,000 points plus taxes and fees

How to book:

1. Visit the Virgin Atlantic website.
2. Log in to your Flying Club account.
3. Click the “Search for Reward Seats” option.
4. Enter your origin, destination, travel dates, and number of passengers.
5. Select your preferred flight and cabin class from the search results.
6. Complete the booking with your Flying Club points and a credit card for any taxes and fees.

Earning Virgin Atlantic Flying Club Points

American Express Membership Rewards, Bilt Rewards, Capital One miles, Chase Ultimate Rewards, Citi ThankYou Rewards, and Wells Fargo Rewards all transfer to Flying Club at a 1:1 ratio. Marriott Bonvoy points transfer at a 3:1 ratio.

Before You Book Award Flights to Europe

Before transferring points to any loyalty program, confirm that award space is available on your preferred route and dates. Use Seats.aero or the airline’s own search tool to check availability without committing any points. Transfers between loyalty programs are irreversible — once points move, they cannot be returned — so only transfer after availability is confirmed.

Taxes and fees are part of the total cost of any award redemption and should be factored in before booking. U.K. air passenger duty, in particular, can add several hundred dollars to the cost of awards departing from London, and that’s especially true if you’re flying in business or first class. Routing the return leg of a trip through a non-U.K. European city — such as Paris, Amsterdam, or Frankfurt — avoids this charge entirely, even if your flight connects through London before heading to the U.S.

How We Selected the Best Ways To Fly to Europe With Points

The programs on this page were evaluated based on award pricing, partner airline coverage, fuel surcharge policies, transferable currency support, and overall value for U.S.-Europe routes. For a full explanation of the criteria and methodology used to assess travel rewards programs, see our rating methodology page.

Final Thoughts

Several loyalty programs offer reliable award flights between the U.S. and Europe.

Avianca Lifemiles offers fixed Star Alliance pricing with no fuel surcharges. Air Canada Aeroplan provides broader partner coverage, including Singapore Airlines. American AAdvantage uses fixed-rate pricing for Oneworld partner flights. Air France-KLM Flying Blue offers Promo Rewards, which reduce standard award pricing by 25% to 50% on select routes.

Before transferring points to any program, confirm award availability and account for taxes and fees.