Travelling can be tiring, especially during long waits at the airport. But if you have a credit card that offers lounge access, your journey becomes much more comfortable. From free food and beverages to peaceful seating and Wi-Fi, airport lounges offer a premium experience at no extra cost-all thanks to your credit card.
Let’s explore which credit cards have lounge access in India, and which one might be right for you
Why Lounge Access Matters
Lounge access is not just about luxury – it’s about convenience. If you’re a frequent traveler, you know the value of:
- Quiet zones to relax before your flight
- Complimentary meals and drinks
- Free Wi-Fi and charging points
- Access to newspapers and entertainment
Many Indian credit cards offer domestic and international airport lounge access as a key benefit.
Best Credit Cards with Lounge Access in India (2025)
1. HDFC Regalia Credit Card
- Lounge Access: 12 complimentary domestic lounge visits/year
- International Access: Available via Priority Pass (up to 6 visits/year)
- Annual Fee: ₹2,500 (waived on ₹3 lakh annual spend)
- Extra Benefits: Travel concierge, rewards, and dining offers
2. ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card
- Lounge Access: 4 domestic visits/quarter via DreamFolks
- International Access: Complimentary Priority Pass membership
- Annual Fee: ₹3,500
- Why It’s Good: Both domestic and international coverage
3. Axis Bank Vistara Infinite Credit Card
- Lounge Access: 6 complimentary domestic lounge visits/year
- International Access: Priority Pass (up to 6 visits/year)
- Annual Fee: ₹10,000
- Unique Benefit: Free Vistara Business Class ticket annually
4. SBI ELITE Credit Card
- Lounge Access: 8 domestic visits/year
- International Access: 6 visits/year via Priority Pass
- Annual Fee: ₹4,999
- Why It’s Popular: Great travel and movie benefits bundled in one
5. American Express Platinum Travel Card
- Lounge Access: Domestic lounges via LoungeBuddy or partner network
- Annual Fee: ₹5,000
- Travel Rewards: AirMiles and gift vouchers on milestone spends
6. IDFC FIRST Select Credit Card
- Lounge Access: 4 complimentary domestic visits/quarter
- Annual Fee: ₹0 (Lifetime Free)
- Why It’s Great: Lounge benefit on a no-fee card
7. AU Bank Zenith+ Credit Card
- Lounge Access: 2 visits/month domestic, Priority Pass for international
- Annual Fee: ₹7,999
- Premium Feature: Concierge service and lifestyle rewards
How to Avail Lounge Access with Credit Cards
To use lounge access via credit cards, follow these steps:
- Visit the lounge participating in your card’s network (Mastercard, Visa, RuPay, Priority Pass, etc.).
- Present your credit card at the counter.
- Enter your PIN or swipe to access the lounge.
- Charges (if any beyond free limit) will be notified on-screen.
Note: Each card has a limit on free lounge visits, so check your bank’s T&Cs.
Domestic vs. International Lounge Access
- Domestic Lounge Access: Most cards offer 4–12 visits per year at Indian airports. Networks like Mastercard, Visa, and RuPay support this.
- International Lounge Access: Only premium cards offer access via Priority Pass or LoungeKey, mostly limited to 4–6 visits/year.
Which Card Is Right for You?
Here’s a quick guide based on travel habits:
| Type of Traveler | Best Card |
|---|---|
| Occasional domestic flier | IDFC FIRST Select / HDFC Regalia |
| Frequent international | ICICI Sapphiro / SBI ELITE |
| Luxury seeker | Axis Vistara Infinite / Amex Platinum |
| Lifetime free card users | IDFC FIRST Select |
If you want a relaxing start to your journey, a credit card with lounge access is worth it. Whether you’re a budget traveler or fly frequently for work, there’s a card that fits your needs.
Before applying, always review the:
- Lounge access limit
- Supported airports and networks
- Annual charges vs. benefits
Compare wisely, and fly in comfort with the best lounge access credit cards in India.