Buzz
When traveling, passengers often hurry through airports to reach their desired destinations, where they plan to relax and enjoy their time. This is particularly true for holidaymakers eager to escape their daily routines.
However, what if one of the most exciting parts of your journey is the airport itself? These hubs offer unique features and attractions that could make them a highlight of your trip. If you’re searching for an engaging place to explore during a layover, the following top 10 airports are worth considering.
10. Singapore Changi Airport
Singapore’s Changi Airport has been named the world’s best airport for six straight years as of 2018, according to Skytrax’s annual World Airport Awards. The airport is renowned for integrating nature into its design, featuring botanical gardens like sunflower and butterfly gardens in each terminal. Additionally, serene Asian-style ponds provide a calming atmosphere for weary travelers.
For those less inclined toward nature, Changi offers a free cinema, a rooftop pool, and round-the-clock spas. It also includes essential amenities like charging stations and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Changi excels in dining with its 1960s-themed food court, where “street vendors” serve affordable local cuisine. The newest terminal, Terminal 4, combines the best features of the previous three, ensuring a swift journey from security to the boarding gate.
Some travelers have reported reaching their gates in just 15 minutes, an impressive feat for one of the globe’s busiest airports.
The upcoming Jewel Changi Airport, set to open in 2019, promises to redefine airport design. Its highlight is the Rain Vortex, a stunning 40-meter (130 ft) waterfall flowing from the glass dome’s roof, solidifying Changi’s reputation as a leader in innovation.
This innovative central hub connects three terminals and serves as a lifestyle hotspot, featuring a five-story garden, diverse entertainment and shopping options, and dedicated play zones for kids.
9. Hong Kong International Airport
Strategically located within a five-hour flight radius of over half the global population, Hong Kong International Airport ranks among the world’s busiest international airports. To cater to its massive passenger flow, the airport has undergone significant upgrades to enhance layover experiences.
Reflecting Hong Kong’s rich culinary culture, the airport boasts over 80 dining establishments serving global cuisines. From live music venues to quick-service eateries, there’s something to suit every taste and schedule.
The airport also offers premium shopping experiences, including an official Disney store and popular fashion outlets like Giordano and G2000. Families can enjoy an interactive educational park for children and an IMAX theater within the terminal.
If you have some extra time, catch a movie or visit the Lan Kwai Fong Bar, where the first cocktail is complimentary for guests.
8. Incheon International Airport
Incheon International Airport in South Korea offers nearly every amenity a traveler could desire. Unlike many airports that discourage sleeping with uncomfortable seating, Incheon provides free reclining lounges in quiet, dimly lit areas, ideal for a quick nap.
Once rested, you can freshen up in the airport’s complimentary shower facilities, which provide essentials like a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, a hairdryer, and a towel. Just remember to bring your flip-flops—unless you’re a daredevil willing to brave the public shower floor.
The airport is packed with entertainment options to keep you engaged. Try your hand at crafting traditional Korean bags and fans, or enjoy the indoor ice skating rink. You can also visit a cultural museum or stroll through beautifully designed gardens. A layover at Incheon guarantees there’s never a dull moment.
7. Kuala Lumpur International Airport
Kuala Lumpur International Airport focuses on keeping travelers entertained during layovers. Watch specially curated TV channels or visit the Satellite Building for free Wi-Fi at Internet kiosks.
If you prefer to stay active, head to Gateway@KLIA2, a shopping mall connected to the airport. After clearing customs, you’ll find a wide range of shops selling everything from jewelry and apparel to toys and gadgets. Don’t miss the food court, where you can savor affordable Malaysian cuisine.
Need some rest? The airport’s Capsule Transit Airport Hotel provides capsule-style beds for up to 12 hours, complete with luggage lockers, showers, and free Wi-Fi. It’s an excellent option for travelers with longer layovers.
6. London Heathrow Airport
Heathrow is renowned for its top-rated shopping and dining experiences. The Sofitel London Heathrow, located within the airport, ranks as the fifth-best airport hotel globally. While the food options may not be as extensive as other major airports, the curated selection of restaurants includes European cafes, traditional British pubs, and upscale dining establishments.
Each terminal at Heathrow features a variety of shops, offering everything from books and casual wear to high-end international fashion. For a cultural touch, visit the art gallery in Terminal 5, which showcases a permanent collection of sculpture and other artworks.
5. Munich Airport
Munich Airport ranks fourth globally among the world’s best airports and has been named Europe’s top airport for a decade. It also holds a prestigious five-star rating from Skytrax.
What makes Munich Airport stand out?
Its on-site brewery is a major highlight. Enjoy a drink while waiting for your flight at this unique brewery. For entertainment, visit the world’s largest man-made standing wave, where you might even witness a professional competition organized by airport staff.
If that doesn’t excite you, explore the in-terminal park featuring a mini golf course, aviation displays, and an interactive historic aircraft exhibit. You can also enjoy a giant slide or relax in one of the airport’s private sleeping cabins.
4. McCarran International Airport
McCarran International Airport (LAS), Las Vegas’s main airport, embodies the spirit of its Nevada location. As the eighth-busiest airport globally, it houses an aviation museum dedicated to the history of air travel in Las Vegas.
LAS features its own brewery, along with numerous pubs and local restaurants offering 24-hour slot machines, giving you a true Vegas experience. For relaxation, free lounges are available to all travelers. If you’re full of energy, the airport gym provides access to showers and saunas for just $25.
3. Samui International Airport
Samui International Airport boasts one of the most unique designs globally. Owned by Bangkok Airways, it’s strategically situated on one of Thailand’s prime island destinations, making it easily accessible for international travelers.
The airport’s structures are primarily crafted from bamboo and thatch, with tropical flowers adorning the terminals, creating an exotic vacation vibe. Its eco-friendly design, which relies on natural airflow instead of air conditioning, has earned international acclaim for environmental sustainability, adding to its charm.
Despite being one of the world’s top airports, check-in and baggage handling may take longer due to its small, privately managed operations. However, the experience of traveling through this stunning resort-style airport is well worth the wait.
For dining and shopping, the airport features boutique stores, cafes, and a cultural food court named Samui Park Avenue. For something unique, visit the Samui Robot Group shop, which sells Alien-inspired creatures crafted from recycled car parts.
2. Bangkok International Suvarnabhumi Airport
If you’re planning a trip to one of the world’s top airports, it’s helpful to know how to pronounce its name: “sue-wahn-ah-poom.” The “i” at the end is silent.
This world-class facility excels in traditional airport shopping and dining. While it lacks amenities like museums or pools, it stands out for its vast size, efficient flight operations, and seamless passenger transitions.
The airport includes a hotel for overnight stays, along with budget-friendly lounges and sleeping areas. Dining options range from fast food to authentic Thai and Asian cuisine.
If you’re facing a long layover and aren’t interested in sleeping or eating, hop on the in-airport train located on the lower level and explore the vibrant city of Bangkok, which is always bustling, no matter the time.
1. Dubai International Airport
Dubai International Airport is a haven for tech-savvy travelers, offering award-winning fast Internet and efficient check-ins. Its “Wow-fi” boasts the world’s fastest Wi-Fi speeds, reaching up to 39.50 mbps. Additionally, smart gates allow passengers to bypass long queues, significantly speeding up the boarding process.
For entertainment, the airport’s collaboration with ICFlix provides unlimited free streaming of movies and TV shows. For relaxation, the in-terminal Zen garden offers a tranquil escape with a touch of culture, and travelers can also enjoy massage services.
The airport offers a variety of dining options, including Wolfgang Puck’s The Kitchen, one of only two Pret a Manger locations in the country, along with local eateries and a Heineken lounge.
