Updated as of December 2, 2024
For most of us, our holiday begins even before the plane takes off – at the airport. From a thoughtfully designed immigration area to top-notch efficiency paired with excellent retail and dining options, these details can really set us off on the right foot for our getaways.
It’s safe to say Singapore's very own Changi Airport has been hitting all the marks, evident in its steady stream of accolades over the years. And now, Singapore Changi Airport, specifically Terminal 2, has earned a spot among the six most beautiful airports in the world for 2024, as recognised by the prestigious Prix Versailles international architectural awards.
And as of December 2, 2024, the results from UNESCO are in: Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 has clinched the title of 'Special prize for an Interior'.
Not too long ago, Singapore's Changi Airport Terminal 2 underwent a glow-up and eventually reopened in November 2023 after three and a half years of expansion and upgrading works. Its most striking new feature is The Wonderfall, a 14-metre-tall digital display of a cascading waterfall in the departure hall. The rest of the terminal is a walk through nature: the carpeted floors evoke a bird's eye view of land and sea, pillars and beams drip with plants, while the south garden offers rest under an LED ceiling that changes with real-time weather conditions.
Not to say there aren't more practical enhancements too. The terminal introduced new automated check-ins, bag drops, and immigration lanes so passengers can breeze through to their gate. There's tons to do and eat too, be it playing at the bear-themed playground, 2 Bears Hideout, or shopping at the two-story Lotte Duty Free Wines & Spirits store in the transit zone.
These are the six most beautiful airports in the world for 2024, according to Prix Versailles:
- Zayed International Airport, Abu Dhabi - Winner
- Changi Airport Terminal 2, Singapore - Special prize for interior
- Suvarnabhumi Airport, Midfield Satellite 1, Bangkok – Special prize for exterior
- Felipe Ángeles International Airport, Zumpango
- Logan International Airport, Terminal E, Boston
- Kansas City International Airport, Kansas City
The winner will be announced on December 2 at UNESCO.
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