Top 5 Credit Cards in India with Complimentary Airport Lounge Access

By | April 22, 2025

If you’re someone who travels frequently, having the right credit card can elevate your experience at airports. Many credit cards with airport lounge access offer more than just the convenience of skipping long queues and crowded terminals—they provide a quiet place to relax, enjoy snacks, and charge your devices before your flight. In India, several credit cards come with this valuable perk, making it easier for you to travel in comfort. Whether you’re a business traveler or a frequent flyer, finding the right card with complimentary airport lounge access can transform your airport experience.

1. HDFC Bank Marriott Bonvoy Credit Card

If you’re looking for a card that balances affordability with premium features, the HDFC Marriott Bonvoy Credit Card is an excellent choice. For a joining fee of just ₹3,000, it provides 12 free domestic and 12 international airport lounge visits per year.

Supplementary cardholders also get access to lounges, although guest access is not included. A standout feature of this card is its partnership with the Marriott Bonvoy program. You can earn up to 8 Bonvoy Points per ₹150 spent, and enjoy Silver Elite status, which brings hotel privileges such as complimentary Wi-Fi, late checkout, and room upgrades.

Ideal for frequent travelers who prefer staying at Marriott hotels, this card is both practical and rewarding.

2. HDFC Regalia Credit Card

Another strong contender from HDFC is the Regalia Credit Card, designed with globe-trotters in mind. It offers 12 complimentary lounge visits annually, valid across Indian airports and select international terminals.

If you opt for the Priority Pass membership provided with the card, both you and your add-on cardholder can enjoy 6 free lounge visits abroad every year. The joining fee is ₹2,500, but there’s a silver lining—spend ₹4 lakh in a year and your next year’s fee is waived.

Regalia also offers a host of lifestyle benefits, including dining discounts and travel insurance, making it a well-rounded option.

3. SBI Card ELITE

The SBI Elite Credit Card is packed with premium features and suits frequent flyers well. It carries a joining fee of ₹4,999 but justifies it with a host of benefits. You get 2 complimentary domestic lounge visits per quarter, totaling 8 visits annually.

For international travelers, it includes a Priority Pass membership worth $99, giving access to over 1,000 airport lounges globally, with 6 free visits every calendar year.

SBI occasionally runs offers for existing customers, where the card may be issued as lifetime free—a great deal for those who already bank with SBI.

4. ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card

Tailored for high spenders seeking top-tier experiences, the ICICI Emeralde Credit Card comes with a premium joining fee of ₹12,499. However, it offers unlimited complimentary lounge access at select Indian airports and access to 1,300+ lounges in 148 countries.

Both primary and supplementary cardholders enjoy this benefit, adding significant value for families and partners. Additionally, if your annual spends exceed ₹10 lakh, the next year’s fee is waived.

The card also offers luxury perks like spa sessions, concierge services, and golf privileges, making it ideal for those who enjoy an elite lifestyle.

5. Axis Bank Atlas Credit Card

The Axis Atlas Credit Card takes a unique approach with a tier-based lounge access system. You pay a joining fee of ₹5,000 plus taxes, and upon making your first purchase within 37 days, you receive 2,500 Edge Miles as a welcome bonus.

Lounge access is based on your spending tier:

  • Silver Tier: 8 domestic and 4 international visits
  • Gold Tier: 12 domestic and 6 international visits
  • Platinum Tier: 18 domestic and 12 international visits

The more you spend, the higher your tier—and the better your travel benefits. Some existing Axis customers may qualify for First Year Free (FYF) or Lifetime Free (LTF) versions, making the card even more attractive.

Conclusion

Airport lounge access is no longer a luxury reserved for business class travelers. Thanks to these top-tier credit cards, you can enjoy comfort, convenience, and quiet—even in a busy airport terminal. Whether it’s grabbing a bite, charging your devices, or simply escaping the crowds, lounges offer a much-needed breather during your journey.

Each of the credit cards listed above caters to different types of travelers. From HDFC’s travel-friendly Marriott Bonvoy and Regalia cards, to the all-round luxury of ICICI Emeralde, the global access of SBI Elite, and the flexible rewards of Axis Atlas—you’re sure to find one that fits your travel needs and lifestyle.

So next time you plan a trip, make sure your wallet has one of these powerful cards—your airport experience will never be the same again.