{"id":105281,"date":"2025-08-03T13:08:00","date_gmt":"2025-08-03T07:38:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/aviationa2z.com\/?p=105281"},"modified":"2025-08-03T05:03:40","modified_gmt":"2025-08-02T23:33:40","slug":"most-favourite-international-airports-in-world-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/aviationa2z.com\/index.php\/2025\/08\/03\/most-favourite-international-airports-in-world-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"Top 10 Most Favourite International Airports in the World 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

In 2025, the world\u2019s favorite airports aren’t just transit hubs; they\u2019re destinations in themselves. From indoor waterfalls and art museums to saunas and poetry-lit corridors, travelers have spoken through Travel + Leisure\u2019s annual World\u2019s Best Awards<\/strong>, ranking the top international airports that go above and beyond.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

These are the places where long layovers become moments of wonder, and where design, culture, and comfort come together to create unforgettable travel experiences. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Most Favourite International Airports<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s explore the top 10 international airports<\/strong> that travelers loved most in 2025, and why they\u2019re more than just gateways to the skies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Istanbul<\/a>
Photo-Wikimedia.org-Istanbul Airport<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

1. Istanbul Airport, Turkey<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Scoring an outstanding 98.57 out of 100<\/strong>, Istanbul Airport takes the readers\u2019 top spot. It recently added a third simultaneous runway, the first in Europe, allowing up to 1,695 takeoffs and landings in a single day<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Inside, travelers find 44 sleep pods<\/strong>, a Youth Lounge with PlayStation, a spa, a museum with Turkish artifacts, and even a friendly therapy dog named Kuki<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Its soaring, light-filled terminals feel more contemporary gallery than transit hub. Beneath polished runways, shared art installations showcase Turkish calligraphy and geometric mosaics. Travelers love the prayer lounges bathed in subtly lit domes and the lounge terraces with Bosphorus views. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n
\"Turkish<\/a>
Photo-liveandletsfly-Turkish Airlines Istanbul <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"Turkish<\/a>
Photo- liveandletsfly-Turkish Airlines Istanbul Overnight Lounge<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"Turkish<\/a>
Photo-liveandletsfly-Turkish Airlines Istanbul Overnight Lounge<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

A hidden gem is the snack corner serving Istanbul street food such as freshly baked simit and small bowls of kaymak\u2011topped honey for free during rush hours. With nonstop connections across five continents, Istanbul Airport blends efficiency, regional warmth, and design surprises. It connects to over 310 destinations<\/strong>, making it a true global hub.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Its spacious layout, Turkish cultural touches, efficient check\u2011in, and bold architecture deliver a travel experience that readers called \u201creliable but beautiful.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Singapore Changi Airport<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"Rain<\/a>
Photo-Real cereal-Pexels-Rain Vortex Waterfall At Changi Airport<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

A close runner\u2011up in readers\u2019 hearts and a longstanding global benchmark, Changi wins admiration for doing the basics flawlessly. The indoor Rain Vortex waterfall<\/strong> sparkles below at 40\u202fmetres high. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Guests wander lush orchid<\/strong> and butterfly gardens<\/strong> or unwind at the canopy park<\/strong>. Hidden pianos by gates softly accompany flights with live music, and the uniquely positioned rooftop sunflower garden open to overflow passengers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n
\"\"<\/a>
Photo-PxHere-Waiting Area At Changi Airport<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"Butterfly<\/a>
Photo-liveandletsfly-Butterfly Garden<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"Orchid<\/a>
Photo-Shankar S.-Flickr-Orchid Garden<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Travelers delight in free guided Singapore heritage tours offered during long layovers, taking them through temple and kampong reprints inside terminal corridors. Changi\u2019s diverse dining selections, stellar washroom facilities, and seamless transit passage make it consistently beloved<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The airport introduces early check\u2011in\u2014up to 48 hours in advance\u2014allowing travelers to check bags and enjoy the facilities. To many readers, Changi isn\u2019t just an airport\u2014it feels like a tropical wellness retreat. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hamad International Airport, Doha<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/a>
Photo-Mohamod Fasil-Flickr-Hamad International Airport<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

In third place with a 92.34 score<\/strong>, Hamad blends futuristic architecture and Arabic elegance. Hamad crafts an ultra\u2011polished luxury experience from the moment you step off your plane. The interiors lean futuristic yet rooted in Arabic design.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The<\/a>
Photo- Wikimedia Commons-The Orchard, Hamad International Airport<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Among lesser-known features is the orchid garden<\/strong> hidden behind duty\u2011free, where soft lighting and fragrant petals calm nerves before long journeys. Phase B expansion in March 2025 added a tropical waterfall<\/strong> in Concourse D\/E. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Travelers report bliss\u2011inducing experiences at the sleep pods located in quiet lounges, always stocked with clean pajamas and tea. Boutique spaces showcase Emirati crafts made on-site, local artisans, offering hand\u2011woven fabrics and jewelry made on site. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n
\"\"<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Even travelers passing through quickly say Doha feels soothing rather than stressful. The airport\u2019s art installations and clean lines make every walk feel elegant, even when connection time is tight<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Abu Dhabi\u202fZayed International Airport, UAE<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"Abu_Dhabi_(UAE),_Zayed_International_Airport,_Terminal<\/a>
Photo-Wikimedia Commons-Abu Dhabi (UAE), Zayed International Airport, Terminal A<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Though new on the global favorite list for 2025, with a score of 89.48<\/strong>, Abu Dhabi\u2019s Zayed International Airport impressed readers with its architecture and guest experience. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

A bold X\u2011shaped<\/strong> terminal is both expansive and intimate. Intricate ceiling panels project desert star\u2011patterns by night while biometric gates whisk travelers onward. Hidden botanical lounges rising near concourse roofs offer loungechairs shaded by date palm fronds. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

A lounge art gallery displays Emirati photography. Biometric boarding and peaceful lounges make even long layovers feel purposeful. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Travelers shared that those passing on a business connection often extend stays just to walk the corridor gardens and marvel at the gentle design lighting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Dubai International Airport, UAE<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"Dubai<\/a>
Photo-123_456-Flickr-Dubai International Airport<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Dubai takes fifth place with a score of 88.38<\/strong>. It remains beloved by readers for its superb shopping, rapid immigration lanes, world-class lounges, cultural showcase performance spaces, and themed eateries mixing local flavor with international cuisine, alongside creative surprises like aeronautical-themed <\/strong>kids\u2019 zones and cultural art installations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Many said they preferred it over other regional hubs because of its consistent lounge quality and children\u2019s recreation zones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. Hong Kong International Airport, Hong Kong<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"Hong<\/a>
Photo-Aedas_ Flickr-Hong Kong Airport<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

At 86.22<\/strong>, Hong Kong Airport is praised for punctuality, cleanliness, and variety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hong Kong\u2019s must\u2011land airport is built on reclaimed land yet surprises with hidden green spaces and harbor glimpses from its Skydeck. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n
\"Aviation<\/a>
Photo-Wikimedia Commons-Aviation Discovery Center<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"Aviation<\/a>
Photo-Wikimedia Commons-Aviation Discovery Center<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"Aviation<\/a>
Photo-Wikimedia Commons-Aviation Discovery Center<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Among lesser-known features and readers’ favorites is the deep \u2018Aviation Discovery Centre<\/strong>\u2019 internal exhibit space, where live drones fly overhead and aviation history comes alive through VR displays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"SkyPlaza_at_the_Hong_Kong_International_Airport_Terminal<\/a>
Photo-Wikimedia Commons-SkyPlaza at the Hong Kong International Airport-Terminal 2<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

A hidden Sky decks<\/strong> overlooking Lantau Island <\/strong>invites travelers to step out of the terminal briefly for fresh air. Several lounges serve free dim sum <\/strong>and egg tarts<\/strong> during midday hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Travelers commented that Hong Kong strikes the ideal balance between hustle and thoughtful interaction. For readers, Hong Kong Airport feels efficient and spirited in equal measure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

7. Helsinki\u2011Vantaa Airport, Finland<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"Helsinki<\/a>
Photo-Wikimedia Commons-Helsinki airport new departure hall<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

A newcomer to the Travel + Leisure top ten but beloved in 2025, Helsinki stands out for Nordic calm and design minded utility. Landing seventh with a 86.18 score<\/strong>, Helsinki stands out with its Scandinavian aesthetics and warmth. Interiors use natural wood and daylight to ease anxiety. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hidden features include a forest\u2011themed playroom<\/strong> for children with real birch twigs, and a Finnish sauna<\/strong> tucked behind glass in a quieter zone of the terminal. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Local caf\u00e9s serve rye bread baked onsite and seasonal berry\u2011flavored lattes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Passengers say arriving in Helsinki feels like entering a peaceful cabin rather than a transit hub. Many readers say arriving there feels meditative after long flights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

8. Tokyo Haneda Airport, Japan<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"Haneda<\/a>
Photo-Wikimedia Commons-Haneda Airport Terminal 1<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Haneda scores 84.47<\/strong>, praised for smooth operations, station\u2011like clarity in navigation, and subtle design elegance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Haneda is lauded by readers for top-tier punctuality while the experience includes invisible comforts: hidden nap rooms<\/strong> behind departure gates, minimalist meditation pods<\/strong> for privacy, and small bonsai tree displays<\/strong> near boarding gates curated from renowned gardens. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n
\"bonsoi<\/a>
Photo-liveandletsfly-bonsoi tree at JAL Sakura Sky View Lounge-Haneda, Tokyo<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"Haneda<\/a>
Photo-Wikimedia Commons-Haneda Airport Terminal 1 Marketplace<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Staff greet travelers with audible bows after check-in and often use travelers\u2019 native language greetings, while live Japanese classical music often plays as background in transit corridors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent years, pilgrim\u2011style traveler lounges have even offered free green tea ceremony sessions during slow hours. Even short layovers feel respectful and meaningful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

9. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai, India<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"Chhatrapati<\/a>
Photo-Ninara-Flickr-Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport T2<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Mumbai\u2019s airport ranks ninth with an 84.23 score. Breaking into the top ten as one of India\u2019s first global favorites, Mumbai\u2019s T2 terminal impressed readers with art, culture, and design. Its Jaya He Museum<\/strong> walls display 7000 original artworks by painter M F Husain<\/strong> with bold panels mapping Indian heritage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n
\"Chhatrapati<\/a>
Photo-Aiva.-Flickr-Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Smarak outside Airport<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"Jaya<\/a>
Photo-Wikimedia Commons-Jaya He Museum walls <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Hidden beyond upscale dining areas are small stalls offering vada pav and masala chai for free between flights. Day rooms allow travelers to shower and rest cheaply. Biometric gates make entry seamless. It\u2019s one of the few airports globally to earn the ACI Level 5<\/strong> Customer Experience accreditation. Despite high traffic, readers praised its warmth and cultural pride.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Many readers cited the surprising warmth of the staff, despite Mumbai\u2019s immense crowds, as what made the experience feel welcoming rather than chaotic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

10. Incheon International Airport, South Korea<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"Incheon<\/a>
Photo-Wikimedia Commons-Incheon Airport-T1<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

A recurring favorite with an 83.67 score<\/strong>, now placed tenth in Travel + Leisure\u2019s readers survey, Incheon consistently earns praise for transfer efficiency and cultural depth. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The underground ice skating rink<\/strong> (open seasonally), the Museum of Korean Culture<\/strong> tucked near the gates, and the digital library <\/strong>behind Duty-Free make long waits joyful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Incheon<\/a>
Photo-Wikimedia Commons-Incheon Airpot-Train Terminal<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Travel\u2011curious readers share that small Korean drum<\/strong> performances happen unannounced in cultural lounges. Staff wear smart badges<\/strong> with multilingual touchscreens to assist passengers instantly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The quiet forest-themed walking corridors between terminals offer natural light and ergonomic flooring designed to reduce fatigue, inspired by traditional hanok<\/strong> architecture. Incheon feels efficient but culturally alive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n
10 Airports That Feel Like Sci-Fi Movies<\/a><\/blockquote>