Flying can be a stressful experience. Long lines, security checks, and delays are just a few of the things that can make traveling by air a less-than-enjoyable experience.
But it doesn’t have to be that way!
There are a handful of airports around the world that have gone above and beyond to make the travel experience a pleasant one.
From stunning architecture to incredible amenities, these airports will make you actually want to spend time in them.
Read on to explore the most beautiful airports in the world.
Changi Airport – Singapore
If you’re looking for a breathtaking, world-class travel destination, look no further than Changi Airport in Singapore.
This airport has been voted the best in the world multiple times, and it’s easy to see why.
From its stunning architecture to its endless array of amenities, Changi Airport is truly a sight to behold. Here are five reasons why you should add it to your travel list.
The Architecture
Changi Airport is home to some of the most beautiful architecture in the world. The main terminal building is a work of art, with its high ceilings, large windows, and sleek design.
But that’s not all—the airport also features a rainforest, a butterfly garden, and even a cactus garden!
No matter where you turn, you’ll find something new and exciting to look at.
The Shopping
Whether you’re looking for souvenirs or just want to do some duty-free shopping, Changi Airport has you covered.
With hundreds of stores to choose from, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for (and then some). Plus, if you need a break from all the shopping, you can always head over to one of the many restaurants or cafes for a bite to eat.
The Amenities
In addition to the standard airport amenities like free WiFi and plenty of charging stations, Changi Airport also offers an outdoor swimming pool, a movie theater, and even a spa!
Singapore is an amazing city in its own right, and Changi Airport is the perfect gateway into this vibrant metropolis. From the moment you arrive at the airport, you’ll be able to see why Singapore is known as the “Garden City.” With its endless array of green spaces and stunning skyline views, Singapore will not disappoint.
The People
Last but not least, one of the best things about Changi Airport is the people who work there. From the moment you step off your plane until the moment you board your next one, you’ll be greeted with smiles and helpfulness at every turn. Clearly, customer service is a top priority at Changi Airport—and that’s just one more reason why it’s worth visiting!
Hamad International Airport – Qatar
Hamad International Airport is one of the newest airports on this list, opening in 2014.
The airport is designed to resemble an Arabian souq (marketplace) and features stunning Islamic architecture.
Hamad International Airport is also home to plenty of shops and restaurants and an outdoor park with views of the city skyline.
Munich Airport – Germany
Munich Airport is consistently ranked as one of the best airports in the world, and it’s easy to see why.
The airport features two beautiful glass-roofed terminals connected by an underground train.
In addition to its good looks, Munich Airport is also known for its excellent customer service.
Free Wi-Fi, plenty of charging stations, and an on-site brewery are just a few of the reasons why travelers love spending time here.
Vancouver International Airport – Canada
If you’ve been to Vancouver International Airport (YVR), then you know that it’s one of the most beautiful airports in the world.
YVR is just minutes from downtown Vancouver and is surrounded by breathtaking mountain and ocean views.
No matter where you are in the airport, you’re guaranteed to have a stunning view.
And if you’re lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a North Pacific Right Whale or orcas while you’re waiting for your flight, then you’ll really be in for a treat!
The airport terminal is a work of art in itself. Designed by Japanese Canadian architect Fumihiko Maki, the building features curved walls and a series of “fingers” extending from the main terminal. The result is an elegant and modern space that feels more like a gallery than an airport.
Speaking of galleries, YVR is home to one of Canada’s largest public art collections. There’s always something new to see, with over 300 pieces of art on display throughout the airport. From Aboriginal carvings to contemporary sculptures, the collection has something for everyone.
YVR is committed to sustainable practices and was even named one of the world’s ten most environmentally friendly airports by CNN in 2010. YVR is leading the way regarding green initiatives, from electric vehicles to rainwater harvesting.
Last but not least, YVR offers world-class amenities that will make your travel experience as smooth as possible. You won’t be disappointed, from free WiFi to plenty of shopping and dining options. There’s even an outdoor garden if you need some fresh air before your flight!
Fresno Yosemite International Airport – United States
Have you ever been to an airport and thought to yourself, “Wow, this place is beautiful!”?
If you haven’t, you’re in for a treat when you land at Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FYI). Located in central California, FYI is one of the most beautiful airports in the world.
The first thing you’ll notice when you arrive at FYI is the stunning landscape. The airport is situated at the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains, and on a clear day, you can see the snow-capped peaks in the distance.
The mountains aren’t the only natural wonder FYI has to offer; the airport also boasts a beautiful waterfall cascading down a rock wall near the entrance.
Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport — Spain
Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport is not only one of the busiest airports in Europe but also one of the most beautiful.
The airport is home to four terminals, each with its own unique design.
The Terminal 4 complex, which was completed in 2006, is a work of art in itself.
But it’s not just the terminals that make this airport so beautiful; it’s also the grounds.
The airport sits on more than 2,000 acres of land and has nearly 30 miles of runways. That’s a lot of ground to cover, and it’s all been meticulously landscaped.
In fact, Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport was named the Best Large Airport in Europe at the 2014 World Airport Awards.
But what makes this airport so special?
The answer lies in the details. Everywhere you look, thoughtful touches make the experience of being at the airport more pleasant.
There are more than 200 works of art on display throughout the airport.
And if you need a place to relax before your flight, you can take advantage of one of the many gardens or outdoor areas. There’s even an on-site museum!
Of course, no airport would be complete without a variety of shopping and dining options, and Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport does not disappoint. There are more than 60 shops and restaurants to choose from, so you’re sure to find something to your taste.
Koh Samui Airport, Thailand
Picture this – you’re on a beautiful island in Thailand, the sun is shining, and you’re surrounded by palm trees and blue skies.
Sounds pretty perfect, right?
Now imagine that same scenario, but instead of being at the beach or by the pool, you’re actually inside the airport!
That’s what you can expect when you visit Koh Samui Airport, which has been voted one of the most beautiful airports in the world.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes this airport so special.
Koh Samui Airport is located on the small island of Koh Samui, which is about 800 kilometers from Bangkok.
Related: The Best Thai Islands
The airport itself is relatively small, but it packs a big punch in terms of beauty.
When you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a stunning open-air lobby with high ceilings and plenty of natural light.
There are also several shops and restaurants, so you can grab a bite to eat or do some last-minute shopping before your flight.
One of the best things about Koh Samui Airport is that it’s designed to give visitors a taste of Thai culture from the moment they arrive.
There are traditional Thai sculptures and artworks throughout the airport, and signs are written in both Thai and English.
Barra Airport, Scotland
When you think of Scotland, what comes to mind? Chances are, it’s rolling green hills, lochs, and maybe even a castle or two.
But what you might not know is that Scotland is home to one of the most unique airports in the world—Barra Airport.
Situated on the tiny island of Barra in the Outer Hebrides, this airport is unlike any other, and here’s why.
The Beach Runway
That’s right—Barra Airport has a beach runway. And not just any beach runway, but one that is only usable during low tide.
That means that flight schedules must be carefully coordinated with the tides, as planes can only take off and land when the tide is low enough to allow for it.
As you can imagine, this makes for some pretty breathtaking scenery. Not to mention, it’s a pretty cool experience to land on a beach!
The Scenery
Speaking of scenery, Barra Airport is situated in one of the most beautiful places in Scotland. The island of Barra is home to white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque views.
The Location
Not only is Barra Airport gorgeous, but it’s also located in a very convenient spot. If you’re looking to explore the Outer Hebrides, flying into Barra Airport is a perfect way. From here, you can easily access all the different islands in the chain without taking a ferry or driving for hours on end.
Toronto Pearson International Airport
Toronto Pearson International Airport is consistently ranked as one of the best airports in the world.
In 2019, it was ranked as the second-best airport in North America and the seventh-best airport in the world by Skytrax.
But what makes Toronto Pearson so special?
Toronto Pearson is a modern airport designed with function and form in mind. The Terminal 1 building, which was completed in 2004, is a prime example of this.
The terminal was designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, and it features a massive white arched roof that spans over 700,000 square feet.
This design not only lets in an abundance of natural light, but it also gives the terminal a clean and airy feel.
Walking through Toronto Pearson, you’ll be treated to a rotating collection of art from local and international artists.
There are currently over 300 pieces on display throughout the airport, and the collection covers a wide range of mediums, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and even film.
If you need a break from all the hustle and bustle of the airport, make your way to one of Toronto Pearson’s five gardens.
These gardens provide travelers with a much-needed oasis amidst all the concrete and metal, and they’re also home to over 250 species of plants from all over the world.
Whether you want to relax on a bench with a good book or take a peaceful stroll through nature, you’ll be able to find your own little slice of heaven at Toronto Pearson.
Malvinas Argentinas Ushuaia International Airport
Tucked away in the southernmost tip of Argentina, Malvinas Argentinas Ushuaia International Airport is one of the most beautiful airports in the world.
The airport boasts breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains, as well as a variety of other stunning natural landmarks.
Ushuaia International Airport is the closest airport to Antarctica, making it a popular destination for travelers exploring the frozen continent.
The airport is also a popular jumping-off point for cruises and other excursions in Tierra del Fuego National Park.
In addition to its stunning location, the airport has several unique features that make it worth a visit in its own right.
For example, the airport has an open-air deck where passengers can take in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
The airport also has an on-site museum that chronicles aviation history in Argentina.
Kansai International Airport – Japan
When you think of Japan, images of traditional temples and serene gardens probably come to mind.
But this East Asian country is also home to some of the world’s most cutting-edge architecture and engineering. Case in point: Kansai International Airport, located on an artificial island in Osaka Bay.
If you’re planning a trip to Japan, add this one-of-a-kind airport to your list of must-sees. Trust us; you won’t be disappointed!
Kansai International Airport opened in 1994 and was designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano.
The airport consists of two main terminals connected by a bridge, with a third terminal set to open in 2024.
But it’s not just the impressive buildings; the whole airport is built on artificial land created by landfills. That’s right – the entire airport is man-made!
But why build an airport on an artificial island in the first place?
There are a few reasons. For one, it protects the airport from typhoons, which are common in this part of the world. It also allows for 24-hour operation, as there are no noise restrictions like there would be if the airport were located in a more densely populated area. And last but not least, building on landfill was much cheaper than purchasing land outright.