The Most Beautiful Airport, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the airport you think is the most beautiful!

Updated on May 18, 2024 06:17

Traveling often starts with an airport, a place where aesthetics can turn a necessity into a pleasure. A beautifully designed airport can help ease the usual stress and rush associated with travel. Recognizing these light-filled lounges, serene gateways, and elegant architecture elevates not just the travel experience but also the spirits of weary travelers. Here, each vote cast by a user adjusts the ever-fluctuating rankings of the most aesthetically pleasing airports. This system provides a dynamic and current snapshot of public opinion, enabling new visitors to see which airports are currently esteemed for their beauty. By participating, users contribute to a broader communal judgment, reflecting diverse tastes and travel experiences.

What Is the Most Beautiful Airport?

1

71
votes
George Tan from Singapore · CC BY 2.0

Singapore Changi Airport

Singapore Changi Airport Group

With its stunning indoor waterfall, butterfly garden, and rooftop pool, Changi Airport is a true architectural marvel. It has also been named the world's best airport for seven years in a row.
Singapore Changi Airport is a world-renowned airport located in Singapore. It is widely recognized as one of the most beautiful airports in Asia, known for its stunning architecture, modern facilities, and extensive array of amenities. The airport strives to provide a seamless and enjoyable travel experience for passengers.

Location: Singapore

Architect: Moshe Safdie

Year of Completion: 1981

Land Area: 13.7 km²

Terminals: 4 passenger terminals
Singapore Changi Airport in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most beautiful airport in Asia
2

34
votes
Mhp1255 · CC BY-SA 3.0

Dubai International Airport

Designed by HOK Architects

The largest airport in the world, Dubai International Airport boasts an impressive array of amenities, including a luxury hotel, world-class restaurants, and a gorgeous indoor garden.
Dubai International Airport is a world-renowned aviation hub located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It is an architectural masterpiece and one of the most beautiful airports in the world. The airport welcomes millions of passengers every year and offers an exceptional travel experience.

Size: One of the largest airports in the world

Terminals: Conveniently organized into three passenger terminals

Design: Contemporary and visually stunning architecture

Amenities: Vast array of luxurious shops, boutiques, and duty-free outlets

Lounges: Multiple lounges providing comfort and relaxation for travelers
3

16
votes
Siqbal at en.wikipedia · Public domain

Incheon International Airport

Located in South Korea, Incheon International Airport is known for its sleek and modern design, with a central atrium that floods the terminal with natural light.
Incheon International Airport is a world-class airport located in Incheon, South Korea. It is renowned for its beautiful architectural design, advanced facilities, and extensive range of services. The airport serves as a major transportation hub for Asia, attracting millions of passengers each year.

Year of opening: 2001

Size: Approximately 5,500 acres

Passenger traffic: Over 70 million in 2019

Number of runways: 2

Terminal buildings: 1 main terminal, 1 satellite terminal
4

22
votes
Thomas Kniess · CC BY-SA 3.0

Munich Airport

With its sweeping curves and glass facade, Munich Airport is a stunning example of contemporary architecture. It also features a large outdoor space with gardens and walking paths.
Munich Airport, also known as Munich Airport Franz Josef Strauss, is a renowned international airport located in Munich, Germany. It is one of the largest airports in Europe and considered one of the most beautiful airports in the world. The airport is designed to provide a seamless travel experience while showcasing traditional Bavarian architecture and modern features.

Terminal Architecture: The airport features a unique terminal design that combines glass, steel, and concrete to create a modern and airy atmosphere.

Airport Grounds: The airport covers an area of approximately 1,550 hectares with beautifully landscaped gardens and green spaces.

Airport Plaza: The central Airport Plaza offers a wide range of shops, restaurants, and amenities, providing a vibrant and enjoyable experience for travelers.

Bavarian Influence: The airport reflects the Bavarian culture and heritage through its architectural elements, traditional Bavarian restaurants, and cultural events.

Visitor Park: Munich Airport features a unique visitor park that allows visitors to get up close to the aircraft, enjoy observation decks, and access various attractions for aviation enthusiasts.
5

9
votes
Wylkie Chan · CC BY-SA 3.0

Hong Kong International Airport

Situated on an artificial island, Hong Kong International Airport offers breathtaking views of the surrounding sea and mountains. Its architecture is also highly innovative, with a unique design that maximizes natural light and ventilation.
Hong Kong International Airport, also known as Chek Lap Kok Airport, is one of the most beautiful airports in Asia. It is located on the island of Chek Lap Kok and serves as a major hub for air travel in the region. The airport opened in 1998 and has since garnered acclaim for its stunning architecture and efficient operation.

Annual Passengers: Over 70 million

Terminal Buildings: Two main terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2

Runways: Two parallel runways

Airport Area: Approximately 1,255 hectares

Terminal 1 Area: 570,000 square meters
Hong Kong International Airport in other rankings
- Position 3 of 10 in Most beautiful airport in Asia
6

14
votes
Jason7825 · Public domain

Marrakesh Menara Airport

GM Architects

This airport is a beautiful example of traditional Moroccan architecture, with its intricate tilework, ornate arches, and vibrant colors.
Marrakesh Menara Airport is a stunning airport located in Marrakesh, Morocco. It is known for its unique and modern design, combining traditional Moroccan architecture with contemporary elements. The airport offers a welcoming and luxurious atmosphere to all its passengers.

Location: Marrakesh, Morocco

Architectural Style: Combination of Moroccan and contemporary design

Year of Completion: 2008

Terminal Area: 56,000 square meters

Number of Gates: 20
7

11
votes

Denver International Airport

Featuring a stunning tent-like roof made of fiberglass and Teflon-coated woven fabric, Denver International Airport is a unique and visually striking airport.
8

3
votes
Eusko Jaurlaritza / Gobierno Vasco. geoEuskadi · CC BY 3.0

Bilbao Airport

Santiago Calatrava

Designed by renowned architect Santiago Calatrava, Bilbao Airport is a striking example of modernist architecture. Its sweeping lines and dramatic forms create an impressive visual impact.
Bilbao Airport, officially known as Bilbao Airport, is a stunning architectural marvel located in Loiu, Spain. The airport was designed by renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, who is known for his innovative and modern creations.

Location: Loiu, Spain

Architect: Santiago Calatrava

Year of Completion: 2000

Architecture Style: Futuristic

Terminal Area: 50,000 square meters
9

9
votes
Malaga · Public domain

Madrid-Barajas Airport

This airport features a stunning modernist design, with a sleek glass facade and a striking series of soaring arches. It also boasts a large collection of contemporary art.
Madrid-Barajas Airport, also known as Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport, is the primary international airport serving Madrid, Spain. It is located northeast of the city center and is one of the largest and busiest airports in Europe.

Terminal Buildings: There are four terminal buildings: T1, T2, T3, and T4. The T4 is further divided into T4 and T4S, which house both domestic and international flights.

Design Style: The airport features a modern and innovative design, showcasing architectural elements like sleek glass facades, spacious interiors, and unique structural features.

Passenger Capacity: The airport has the capacity to handle over 70 million passengers annually.

Flight Connections: Madrid-Barajas Airport offers a wide range of flight connections, including numerous domestic and international routes.

Shopping and Dining: There is a diverse range of shopping and dining options available at the airport, offering a mix of local and international brands.
10

7
votes
Craig · Public domain

Kuala Lumpur International Airport

Kisho Kurokawa

With its distinctive roofline that resembles a series of waving hands, Kuala Lumpur International Airport is a memorable and beautiful airport. It also features a tropical garden and a rainforest-themed shopping area.
Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) is a world-class airport located in Sepang, Malaysia. It is renowned for its stunning architectural design, modern amenities, and efficient operations. KLIA was designed by the talented architect Kisho Kurokawa, who aimed to combine functionality and aesthetics in harmony.

Terminal Building: KLIA has one main terminal building with a complex roof structure inspired by traditional Islamic architecture.

Eco-Friendly Design: The airport incorporates sustainable features like rainwater harvesting, natural lighting, and efficient waste management systems.

Connectivity: KLIA is well-connected with various transportation modes, including a high-speed train that links directly to Kuala Lumpur city center.

Size: Covering an area of 100 square kilometers, KLIA has ample space to accommodate a large number of passengers and airlines.

Runways: The airport features two parallel runways capable of handling the largest commercial aircraft, including the Airbus A380.
Kuala Lumpur International Airport in other rankings
- Position 4 of 10 in Most beautiful airport in Asia

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Ranking factors for beautiful airport

Architectural Design

The overall aesthetics, layout, and design of the airport, including both the exterior and interior. Unique, iconic, and innovative architectural features contribute to the beauty of an airport.
Functionality

An airport should be well-organized, efficient, and user-friendly, ensuring passengers can navigate through the airport with ease.
Art and Décor

The presence of art installations, sculptures, and other decorative elements in the airport, which add to its visual appeal and create a pleasant atmosphere for travelers.
Natural Lighting

The use of natural light in the airport's design contributes to its beauty, creating an open and airy ambiance.
Green Spaces

Incorporation of indoor and outdoor green spaces, gardens, or vegetation, which provide a refreshing and calming environment for passengers.
Cleanliness

The overall cleanliness and maintenance of the airport's facilities play a key role in its appeal. Beautiful airports should be well-kept, clean, and free of clutter.
Amenities

Access to a wide range of facilities and amenities, including restaurants, shopping, lounges, and other services, add to the overall attractiveness and convenience of an airport.
Integration with the Surrounding Environment

A beautiful airport should complement its surrounding landscape or cityscape, taking into account local culture, history, and aesthetics in its design.
Sustainability Practices

Environmentally friendly and sustainable design elements, materials, and technologies contribute to the overall beauty of an airport, indicating a commitment to reducing its environmental impact.
Views and Vistas

Having picturesque views of the surrounding area, such as city skylines, mountains, or bodies of water, enhance the overall beauty and experience of an airport.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most beautiful airport. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or airport is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

2057 views
189 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each airport once every 24 hours. The rank of each airport is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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More information on most beautiful airport

Airports are more than just a means of transportation; they are gateways to new adventures and experiences. As such, many airports have invested heavily in their design and architecture to create stunning and awe-inspiring spaces. From sweeping curves to soaring ceilings, these airports have been designed to impress and inspire. In this article, we will explore some of the most beautiful airports in the world and discover what makes them so special. Whether you are a frequent flyer or just someone who appreciates great design, you won't be disappointed by these stunning airports.