Blog >> The Best Business Class Award Sweet Spots To Europe

The Best Business Class Award Sweet Spots To Europe

By Kevin Zanes / September 21, 2024
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Flying Business Class to Europe is a game-changer. From lie-flat seats and gourmet dining to priority boarding and access to premium lounges, the experience offers a level of comfort and convenience that makes long-haul travel so much more enjoyable. But the hefty price tag often puts it out of reach for many travelers — unless you are using points and miles. By strategically redeeming points, you can turn what might feel like an unattainable luxury into a realistic option. Whether you are heading to Paris for a romantic getaway, London for a business trip, or Madrid for an unforgettable vacation, there are award redemptions that allow you to fly in style for a fraction of the cost. This is how points and miles can make the dream of flying business class to Europe a reality.

The Best Business Class Award Redemptions To Europe

A Business Class flight to Europe does not have to come with an enormous points price tag. By leveraging the best award redemptions, you can experience the luxury of a lie-flat seat and personalized service, all while spending fewer points than you might expect. Here are some of the best options to fly Business Class to Europe for the fewest points.

Related: The 10 Best Travel Rewards Credit Cards

Air France Business Class To Paris: 50,000 Points

Air France 777-300ER Business Class

Credit. Air France. Air France 777-300ER Business Class.

Air France Business Class brings a touch of French elegance to the skies, offering a refined and stylish travel experience. The seats, which convert into fully flat beds, are designed with privacy in mind, featuring direct aisle access in most configurations. The cabin exudes sophistication with its sleek design and soft lighting, creating a serene environment for long-haul flights. Dining is a highlight, with gourmet French cuisine crafted by renowned chefs, paired with an excellent selection of wines and champagne. The service is attentive and polished, enhancing the overall sense of luxury.

  • Operating Airline: Air France
  • Booking Award Program: Air France – KLM Flying Blue
  • Transfer Partners: American Express, BILT, Capital One, Chase, Citi, and Wells Fargo
  • Points: 50,000 (East Coast) / 50,000 (West Coast)
  • Taxes & Fees: $250
  • Best Aircraft: Airbus A350-900 / Boeing 777-300ER
  • Availability: High

Note: You can also book Air France via Virgin Atlantic Flying Club starting at 48,500 points and similar taxes and fees. 

KLM Business Class To Amsterdam: 50,000 Points

KLM 777-300ER Business Class

Credit. KLM. KLM 777-300ER Business Class.

KLM Business Class offers a comfortable and friendly experience with a touch of Dutch charm. The cabin design is bright and welcoming, featuring signature blue accents and personalized touches by Dutch designers. Seats recline into fully flat beds, though the seat configuration may feel a bit more compact than on some competitors. The in-flight dining on KLM highlights fresh ingredients and includes a blend of international and Dutch-inspired dishes, complemented by an excellent selection of wines. One unique perk is the iconic Delft Blue miniature houses given to passengers as a memento.

  • Operating Airline: KLM
  • Booking Award Program: Air France – KLM Flying Blue
  • Transfer Partners: American Express, BILT, Capital One, Chase, Citi, and Wells Fargo
  • Points: 50,000 (East Coast) / 50,000 (West Coast)
  • Taxes & Fees: $250
  • Best Aircraft: Boeing 777-300ER
  • Availability: High

Note: You can also book KLM via Virgin Atlantic Flying Club starting at 48,500 points and similar taxes and fees. 

Virgin Atlantic Business Class To London: 47,500 Points

Virgin Atlantic A330-900neo Business Class

Credit. Virgin Atlantic. Virgin Atlantic A330-900neo Business Class.

Business Class on Virgin Atlantic, known as “Upper Class,” offers a bold and stylish experience that stands out with its vibrant and modern design. The cabin features fully flat beds with direct aisle access, providing both comfort and privacy. A standout feature is the onboard bar, where passengers can socialize and enjoy drinks mid-flight. The dining experience is creative, with a menu blending British and international flavors, accompanied by an excellent selection of wines and cocktails. The Virgin Atlantic crew is known for their friendly and personable service, adding to the relaxed yet premium vibe.

  • Operating Airline: Virgin Atlantic
  • Booking Award Program: Virgin Atlantic Flying Club
  • Transfer Partners: American Express, BILT, Capital One, Chase, and Citi
  • Points: 47,500 (East Coast)
  • Taxes & Fees: $1,000
  • Best Aircraft: Airbus A330-900neo
  • Availability: High

United Airlines Business Class To London: 45,000 Points

United Airlines 777-300ER Business Class

Credit. United Airlines. United Airlines 777-300ER Business Class.

United Airlines Business Class, branded as “Polaris,” focuses on comfort and convenience for long-haul travelers. The Polaris seats offer fully flat beds with direct aisle access, designed to maximize privacy and space. The cabin has a sleek, modern design, featuring calming tones and ample storage. The in-flight dining includes a variety of international and American dishes, with a curated wine and cocktail selection. Passengers can enjoy premium bedding by Saks Fifth Avenue, enhancing the overall rest experience. While the service is generally attentive, it can vary by flight.

  • Operating Airline: United Airlines
  • Booking Award Program: Avianca LifeMiles
  • Transfer Partners: American Express, BILT, Capital One, Citi, and Wells Fargo
  • Points: 45,000 (East Coast)
  • Taxes & Fees: $50
  • Best Aircraft: Boeing 777-300ER / Boeing 787 (-8, -9, -10)
  • Availability: Medium

Aer Lingus Business Class To Dublin: 45,000 Points

Aer Lingus A321neo LR Business Class

Credit. Aer Lingus. Aer Lingus A321neo LR Business Class.

Aer Lingus Business Class combines Irish hospitality with comfort for a relaxed, enjoyable journey. The cabin features lie-flat seats, each offering direct aisle access for privacy and convenience. The contemporary design, with soft green tones, creates a calming environment for long-haul flights. Dining is a highlight, with a menu showcasing fresh, locally sourced Irish ingredients paired with a selection of fine wines and spirits. The crew is known for their warm, friendly service, adding a personal touch to the experience.

  • Operating Airline: Aer Lingus
  • Booking Award Program: Alaska Mileage Plan / Hawaiian HawaiianMiles
  • Transfer Partners: American Express and BILT
  • Points: 45,000 (East Coast)
  • Taxes & Fees: $50
  • Best Aircraft: Airbus A321neo LR
  • Availability: Medium

SAS Business Class To Copenhagen: 35,100 Points

AS A350-900 Business Class

Credit. SAS. SAS A350-900 Business Class.

SAS Business Class is a great option for travelers looking for Scandinavian simplicity and efficiency. The cabin design reflects a clean, minimalist aesthetic, with neutral tones and natural materials creating a calm atmosphere. The seats recline into fully flat beds, offering comfort for long-haul flights, though some may find them slightly narrower compared to other airlines. SAS excels in its food and beverage service, featuring fresh, Nordic-inspired cuisine and a well-curated wine selection. The crew is friendly and professional, with a focus on efficiency rather than personalization.

  • Operating Airline: SAS
  • Booking Award Program: Air France – KLM Flying Blue
  • Transfer Partners: American Express, BILT, Capital One, Chase, Citi, and Wells Fargo
  • Points: 35,100 / 36,900 / 39,000 / 40,900 (East Coast)
  • Taxes & Fees: $50
  • Best Aircraft: Airbus A350-900
  • Availability: Low

Iberia Business Class To Madrid: 34,000 Points

Iberia A350-900 Business Class

Credit. Iberia. Iberia A350-900 Business Class.

The Business Class product on Iberia offers a seamless blend of Spanish flair and modern luxury, perfect for travelers seeking comfort with a cultural touch. The ergonomically designed seats convert into fully flat beds, ensuring a restful journey, while the warm hues and contemporary cabin design create a sophisticated ambiance. Passengers can indulge in a menu that fuses traditional Spanish flavors with international cuisine, paired with an extensive wine list. Though the service may feel more efficient than personal, it remains attentive.

  • Operating Airline: Iberia
  • Booking Award Program: Iberia Plus (Avios)
  • Transfer Partners: American Express, BILT, Capital One, Chase, Citi, and Wells Fargo
  • Points: 34,000 (East Coast) / 42,500 (West Coast)
  • Taxes & Fees: $150
  • Best Aircraft: Airbus A350-900
  • Availability: Medium

Note: The following airlines all use the Avios frequent flyer flexible point currency: Aer Lingus, British Airways, Finnair, Iberia, and Qatar Airways. If you are able to transfer points to one of these airlines, you can move the Avios points to any other airline within the Avios program.

Final Thoughts

By strategically redeeming your points and miles, you can transform a once costly dream into an attainable reality – flying Business Class to Europe. Whether you prioritize comfort, service, or a touch of cultural flair, there is a Business Class product that fits your needs and point budget. With options like the 34,000 point redemption to Madrid on Iberia or the 45,000 point redemption to London on United, a Business Class flight does not have to break your points bank. Now that you have seen the best affordable ways to fly in style across the Atlantic, the only thing left to do is decide where your next adventure will take you. It is time to put those points to work and enjoy a journey that is as memorable as the destination.