Airports aren’t just about long security lines and overpriced snacks - some are actually worth getting excited about. That’s why we’ve rounded up our top picks of the most beautiful airports in the world, places where the architecture alone might make you want to book a longer layover.
Whether it’s a jaw-dropping indoor waterfall or a rooftop garden with views of the runway, these airports offer some of the coolest architectural design and layover amenities out there in a way that combines style, comfort, and some seriously impressive attractions.
So, next time you’re planning a trip, consider choosing a route with a layover at one of these stunning airports. Let’s get started!
1. Incheon Airport, South Korea (ICN)
Incheon International Airport in Seoul, South Korea, is a true architectural delight, consistently ranking among the nicest airports in the world. What makes Incheon stand out is its blend of modern design with traditional Korean elements, creating an environment that’s both visually impressive and peaceful. The airport’s huge glass walls let in plenty of natural light, making the entire space feel open.
Inside, you'll find everything from a Korean culture museum to a beautiful indoor garden complete with a waterfall. It’s not as impressive as the one inside Singapore airport, but it’s a close second! If you have a longer layover, there's a roller skating rink (yes, really!) and an airport spa where you can unwind.
The airport also offers free layover tours into Seoul if you have enough time to spare between flights. The city centre is about an hour away by train, and, once there, you can explore Gyeongbokgung Palace or the National Museum of Korea before returning to the airport to catch your next flight.
2. Singapore Changi Airport, Singapore (SIN)
If you’ve spent any time online before, chances are you’ve seen photos of Singapore Changi Airport. It’s regularly named as one of the most photogenic airports in the world, and is also frequently voted one of the best airports in the world!
The highlight has to be the Jewel, a massive indoor garden that feels like a lush rainforest, complete with the world's tallest indoor waterfall. It's the most Instagrammed spot in the airport, and for good reason - it’s absolutely breathtaking.
That's not all, though. Changi airport also has a butterfly garden, a rooftop swimming pool, and even a 24-hour cinema. You could easily spend an entire day here and not get bored, making long layovers at Singapore airport a breeze.
If you have time to explore the city, it’s just a 30-minute taxi ride away from the airport. Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and hawker centres selling delicious street food are all must-sees during your Singapore layover.
3. Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport, Spain (MAD)
Madrid-Barajas Airport is both a gateway to Spain's capital and a work of art in its own right. Terminal 4, designed by the famous architect Richard Rogers, is the most impressive, with its wave-like roof and abundant natural light. The use of bamboo ceilings and bold colour accents makes the space feel warm and also offer a change of scenery from the whites and greys you usually see at airports.
Madrid’s airport offers plenty of comfortable lounges and has a great selection of restaurants where you can grab some tapas or churros con chocolate before your flight. Or, if you have time for a quick trip into Madrid, the city centre is just a 20-minute ride away on the metro.
Once there, you can visit the iconic Royal Palace of Madrid, take a stroll through Retiro Park, or check out the art in the Prado Museum before catching your next flight.
4. Zurich Airport, Switzerland (ZRH)
Zurich Airport is one of the most beautiful airports in Europe, seamlessly blending Swiss architechtural precision with a touch of natural beauty. The airport’s layout is modern, spacious, and incredibly clean, making it stress-free to navigate, even on a layover.
What sets Zurich Airport apart is its dedication to integrating nature into its design, and even into the traveller experience. Large windows offer stunning views of the surrounding Swiss Alps, and the airport even has its own outdoor observation deck, where you can enjoy the fresh Alpine air while watching planes take off and land during your Zurich layover.
If you have a longer layover, you can hop on a train and be in Zurich’s city centre in just 10 minutes! Once there, you can explore the charming old town, take a walk along Lake Zurich, or indulge in some Swiss chocolate before heading back to the airport.
5. Denver Airport, United States (DEN)
Known for its iconic tented roof structure, designed to resemble the snow-capped peaks of the Rocky Mountains, Denver International Airport is as much a piece of art as it is a travel hub. The airport is filled with art installations that spark curiosity and debate, including the infamous and bizarre Blue Mustang statue and a variety of murals that are as captivating as they are mysterious.
When you feast your eyes on all of its weird artwork, you’ll agree that it’s no wonder there are so many conspiracy theories about this airport!
Weird art aside, Denver Airport also has huge and comfortable public spaces, making it one of our picks for the best US airports for layovers. The train ride to downtown Denver takes around 40 minutes, where you can visit the Denver Art Museum, explore the trendy RiNo district, or catch a game at Coors Field before heading back.
6. Charles De Gaulle Airport, France (CDG)
Charles De Gaulle Airport in Paris is much more than just the gateway to the City of Light. The airport’s architecture is a chic Parisian blend of sleek, futuristic structures and timeless elements like its curved glass facades and bright terminals. These features are what make it stand out as one of the most beautiful airports in the world.
While waiting for your flight here, you can indulge in some Parisian shopping at the high-end boutiques or enjoy a glass of French wine at one of the airport’s many cafes.
If you have enough time on your Paris layover, the RER train gets you to central Paris in about 25-30 minutes. Here, you can visit iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower and the Notre Dame, or simply enjoy a walk along the Seine whilst sipping on a café au lait.
7. Munich Airport, Germany (MUC)
Munich Airport is a top contender for the best airport in Europe, not just for its efficiency, but also for its unique Bavarian charm. The airport’s architecture is modern and sleek, with plenty of natural light flooding the terminals, earning its place on our list of the most beautiful airports in the world.
What really sets Munich Airport apart is its commitment to giving travellers a taste of local culture without needing to leave the terminal. The airport’s on-site brewery, Airbräu, is a must-visit, offering freshly brewed Bavarian beer and traditional German dishes!
If you’re lucky enough to have more time, the airport’s Visitor Park is a great place to explore historic aeroplanes and enjoy some fresh air. If you’re venturing into the city on your Munich layover, the S-Bahn train takes about 45 minutes to reach central Munich, where you can explore Marienplatz, visit the famous Hofbräuhaus (the city’s top beer house), or wander through the beautiful English Garden before returning to the airport.
8. Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, The Netherlands (AMS)
What makes Amsterdam Schiphol stand out is its Dutch flair, from the tulip stands to the iconic blue and white ceramics you’ll spot in the shops, which make it one of the most unique airports in the world.
One of the coolest features of Schiphol is the mini Rijksmuseum, where you can check out Dutch artistic masterpieces without even leaving the airport. There’s also a rooftop panorama terrace where you can relax and watch planes take off and land, and, for book lovers, the airport library is a unique spot to unwind with a good read.
If your Amsterdam layover is long enough, the city centre is just a 15-minute train ride away. Once you’re in Amsterdam, you can stroll along the canals, visit the Anne Frank House, or enjoy a gooey, freshly made stroopwafel before heading back to Schiphol.
9. Heydar Aliyev Airport, Azerbaijan (GYD)
Heydar Aliyev Airport in Baku, Azerbaijan, is a stunning example of how thoughtful design can turn an airport into a warm and welcoming space. The terminal is built using natural materials like wood, stone, and textiles, creating a calm and inviting environment. Soft, warm lighting adds to this atmosphere, making the airport feel more like a luxurious lounge than a busy travel hub.
One of the standout features of Heydar Aliyev Airport is the series of wooden cocoons scattered throughout the terminal. These unique structures vary in size and offer a cosy and private space to relax for passengers.
Heydar Aliyev Airport is a 20-30 minute taxi ride from Baku’s city centre. If you have time to leave the airport, you could explore Baku Boulevard along the Caspian Sea, visit the historic Old City, or admire the striking Heydar Aliyev Center before catching your onward flight.
FAQs About Most Beautiful Airports in the World
What is the most beautiful airport in the world?
Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) is widely regarded as the most beautiful airport in the world. Inside, you’ll find stunning indoor gardens, a mesmerising Rain Vortex - the tallest indoor waterfall globally - and unique attractions like a butterfly garden and rooftop pool.
What amenities should I look for in a good layover airport?
In a good layover airport, look for comfortable lounges, free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and a variety of dining options at a minimum. Some airports go above and beyond with amenities like spas, nap pods, or even art exhibits which can make your wait much more enjoyable, especially during long layovers.
Is it better to stay in the airport or explore the city during a layover?
For layovers under 5 hours, it's generally safer to stay within the airport due to time constraints and the risk of missing your flight. However, if you have a longer layover and the city is easily accessible, exploring can be a great way to make the most of your time. Just be sure to leave enough time to get back through security and to your gate.
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