Explore the World’s Best Airports of 2023

This year’s World’s Best Awards survey closed on March 2, just before widespread stay-at-home orders were implemented as a result of COVID-19. The results reflect our readers’ experiences before the pandemic, but we hope that this year’s honorees will inspire your trips to come — whenever they may be.

Mega-hubs around the world may have seen traffic dwindle this spring; however, years of investment in the passenger experience are still paying dividends for global travelers. The world’s top hubs consistently enhance their offerings with premium lounge facilities, on-site amenities including movie theaters, pools, and botanical gardens, as well as seamless security and immigration processes that simplify long-haul travel. This year, to nobody’s surprise, airports in Asia and the Middle East topped the list, with readers praising their ultra-efficient terminals that seem drawn from a science-fiction utopia.

Every year, iBestTravel asks readers to weigh in on their travel experiences around the globe — sharing opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Airports are rated based on access, check-in/security, restaurants/bars, shopping, and design.

The Top 10 Airports

The world’s best airports, according to readers, largely remained consistent since last year. Four are in Asia, including No. 4 Hong Kong International and No. 5 Incheon International, which serves Seoul. “I purposefully plan layovers through Incheon so I have a chance to do some skin-care shopping and enjoy the fantastic bars and restaurants,” raved one voter, clearly a K-beauty devotee.

Among the favorites this year was No. 2 Hamad International, which held onto its runner-up status from last year. The Doha hub for Qatar Airways is a popular stopover for travelers heading to Africa, India, and Southeast Asia. “It was a pleasure,” said one reader, who added: “I’m no aristocrat, but I was treated royally every step of the way.” Multiple voters praised the lounges, with one stealing the spotlight for its “extensive” shopping options.

Elsewhere, No. 7 Zurich moved up three spots from last year as readers praised its customer service and organization. “The signage and directions are so immaculately posted, and everything is clean — it always blows me away,” one reader remarked. Additionally, No. 9 Copenhagen Airport made the top-10 cut this year: “It’s by far the most peaceful airport I’ve ever been to. Quiet, efficient, and well-lit, it’s a great welcome to the country,” shared one voter.

Furthermore, the developments at Singapore Changi Airport over the past few years have ensured its longevity among the best. Read on to discover what makes it so special in readers’ minds and which other airports join the ranks of the best international airports.

1. Singapore Changi Airport

Exterior of Singapore Changi Airport — Courtesy of Changi Airport

Score: 93.49

More information: changiairport.com

Changi has taken the top spot in iBestTravel’s World’s Best Awards list for eight consecutive years — since the category debuted. Notably, the opening of Jewel Changi Airport in April 2019, a massive stand-alone complex, added a remarkable touch to this premier facility. Jewel’s indoor waterfall, children’s playgrounds, street-food-style vendors, and numerous shops have become a local attraction — a testament to its incredible offerings. “I could’ve taken a vacation in the airport alone,” one reader stated. “It’s the best airport I’ve ever been to,” another voter shared, adding, “I had a long layover, and part of it was spent exploring the airport as well as the city. It’s absolutely beautiful and offers a great food selection.” Interestingly, Singapore Airlines, a major presence at Changi, ranked as this year’s top international carrier for the 25th straight year. Consequently, when it comes to air travel, Singapore seems to have mastered the art.