Exploring the Best Skylines in the World: A Traveler’s Guide

Traveloka Team
23 May 2024 - 5 min read

When it comes to breathtaking cityscapes, nothing quite captures the essence of a metropolis like its skyline. The best skylines in the world are those that not only define the city’s identity but also leave a lasting impression on travelers and skyline aficionados alike. From the towering spires of New York City to the futuristic silhouette of Shanghai, each skyline tells a story of culture, history, and architectural triumph.

Before you plan booking your ticket, let’s dive into our curated list of the best skylines in the world for your reference:

1. New York City, USA

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The Big Apple’s skyline is a tapestry of iconic skyscrapers, each with its own tale. The Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, and the One World Trade Center stand as testaments to the city’s resilience and ambition.

The skyline features some of the world’s most iconic buildings, which have become synonymous with the city’s identity. Landmarks such as Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty are not just architectural feats but also cultural symbols recognized globally. Further, the skyline of NYC is not just a collection of buildings; it’s a cultural phenomenon that has been featured in countless films, photographs, and artworks, further cementing its place in popular culture and the collective imagination.

Flight to New York

Thu, 22 May 2025

JetBlue Airways

Bangkok (BKK) to New York (JFK)

Start from THB 18,896.02

Sat, 10 May 2025

Hawaiian Airlines

San Francisco (SFO) to New York (JFK)

Start from THB 3,276.26

Wed, 21 May 2025

Frontier Airlines

Orlando (MCO) to New York (JFK)

Start from THB 1,551.86

2. Hong Kong

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Hong Kong’s skyline is a dazzling display of modernity, with Victoria Peak offering the perfect vantage point for the neon-lit spectacle. The skyline here is a harmonious blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication.

Hong Kong is also awarded as the city with the most skyscrapers in the world by Statista Research Department as this city has a staggering number of 317 skyscrapers. This impressive count is due to the city’s limited land availability, which necessitates building upwards to accommodate its dense population and thriving economy. A lot of skyscrapers in Hong Jong further enhance the beauty of its skylines, especially at night. Make sure you capture using your camera.

4G eSIM for Southeast Asia (4 Countries), Hongkong & Macao by GoHub

9/10

Singapore Changi International Airport (SIN)

THB 107.64

THB 107.70

3. Dubai, UAE

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Dubai’s skyline is like the ultimate VIP party for skyscrapers, and everyone’s invited to gawk at its awesomeness. It’s got the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, standing tall like the boss of cityscapes.

Then there’s the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab, chilling on its own island like it’s no big deal. And when the sun dips, the whole place lights up like a mega rock concert. It’s not just about being tall and shiny, though; it’s the vibe.

The skyline screams luxury, innovation, and a touch of “let’s do this bigger and better” attitude that Dubai is famous for. So, if you’re a traveler looking for some jaw-dropping, Insta-worthy views, Dubai’s skyline is where it’s at.

Flight to Dubai

Mon, 26 May 2025

IndiGo

Bangkok (BKK) to Dubai (DXB)

Start from THB 7,415.00

Thu, 15 May 2025

China Eastern Airlines

Phuket (HKT) to Dubai (DXB)

Start from THB 10,588.20

Sun, 4 May 2025

Batik Air Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Dubai (DXB)

Start from THB 7,055.64

4. Shanghai, China

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Shanghai’s skyline is a mesmerizing mix of the traditional and the modern. Shanghai has this epic lineup of skyscrapers that look like they’re straight out of a sci-fi flick. The Oriental Pearl Tower got this space-age vibe, while the Shanghai Tower twists up into the clouds like it’s showing off, thus creating a distinctive and unforgettable panorama.

And when night falls, the whole scene turns into a neon light show that’s nothing short of magic. It’s not just a skyline; it’s a statement that Shanghai is all about going big and bold.

5. Sydney, Australia

Umer Arif / Shutterstock.com

Sydney’s skyline is a stunner for a bunch of cool reasons. First off, it’s got the iconic Sydney Opera House with its sail-like design that totally pops against the blue sky. Then there’s the Sydney Harbour Bridge, which is this massive steel beauty you can’t miss. Plus, the skyline isn’t all crammed with skyscrapers, so it feels more chill and spacious.

But what really makes Sydney’s skyline top-notch is how it blends with nature. You’ve got the deep blue sea and the sky that create this awesome backdrop for the city’s buildings. And the best part? There are heaps of spots around the city where you can catch a glimpse of this amazing view for free, such as at Mrs Macquarie’s Chair and Sydney Tower Eye.

Flight to Sydney

Fri, 16 May 2025

Scoot

Bangkok (BKK) to Sydney (SYD)

Start from THB 5,955.08

Sat, 17 May 2025

AirAsia X

Bangkok (DMK) to Sydney (SYD)

Start from THB 4,904.56

Mon, 19 May 2025

Jetstar

Melbourne (MEL) to Sydney (SYD)

Start from THB 1,660.16

6. Tokyo, Japan

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Tokyo’s skyline is a sprawling sea of buildings that reflects the city’s dynamic culture and fast-paced lifestyle with the presences of some skyscrapers such as Tokyo Tower and the newer Tokyo Skytree.

Tokyo Tower is this bright red beacon that’s been around since 1957 and stands at 333 meters. It’s not just cool to look at, it’s also got an observatory where you can go up and get some sweet pics for your Insta.

Further, there’s Tokyo Skytree, which is even taller at 634 meters! It’s the tallest thing in Japan, and from its observation decks, you can see all of Tokyo spread out like a giant map. On a clear day, you can even spot Mt. Fuji in the distance.

Plus, at night, the city lights up and it’s like looking at a sea of stars right on the ground. It’s the perfect blend of Japan’s history and its super cool, futuristic vibe.

teamLab Planets TOKYO

9.7/10

THB 651.65

7. Singapore

Shutterstock.com

Singapore's skyline is like a perfect blend of classy vibes and eco-friendliness. The Marina Bay Sands and the Supertree Grove shows off Singapore's love for nature and cool futuristic style. So if you're into jaw-dropping views with a side of eco-friendly flair, Singapore's skyline is where it's at!

And let's not forget about the stunning waterfront views. Singapore is surrounded by water, so you can catch breathtaking panoramas of the city skyline from spots like Marina Bay or the Singapore Flyer.

Lastly, Singapore's skyline isn't just about skyscrapers. It's also packed with lush greenery, thanks to initiatives like the Gardens by the Bay. So you get this awesome contrast of nature and urban jungle, making it a standout skyline that's totally worth checking out if you're a traveler looking for something mind-blowing.

As we marvel at these urban masterpieces, it’s clear that the best skylines in the world are more than just a collection of buildings—they are the heartbeats of the cities they represent. They inspire us to explore, to dream, and to discover the stories etched into their horizons.

Flight to Singapore

Tue, 20 May 2025

Scoot

Bangkok (BKK) to Singapore (SIN)

Start from THB 1,480.04

Thu, 15 May 2025

Thai AirAsia

Bangkok (DMK) to Singapore (SIN)

Start from THB 1,616.95

Thu, 15 May 2025

AirAsia Berhad (Malaysia)

Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Singapore (SIN)

Start from THB 595.68

For those itching to witness these awe-inspiring skylines firsthand, why wait? Book your flight ticket on Traveloka today and prepare to be captivated by the world’s most stunning cityscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler, planning your next adventure, or a skyline enthusiast eager for a new perspective, the sky’s the limit when it comes to experiencing the best skylines in the world. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and let the skyline-hopping begin! Explore Traveloka for great deals on activities, flight, and hotel. Visit Traveloka for more information!

In This Article

• 1. New York City, USA
• 2. Hong Kong
• 3. Dubai, UAE
• 4. Shanghai, China
• 5. Sydney, Australia
• 6. Tokyo, Japan
• 7. Singapore

Flights Featured in This Article

Thu, 22 May 2025
JetBlue Airways
Bangkok (BKK) to New York (JFK)
Start from THB 18,896.02
Book Now
Sat, 10 May 2025
Hawaiian Airlines
San Francisco (SFO) to New York (JFK)
Start from THB 3,276.26
Book Now
Wed, 21 May 2025
Frontier Airlines
Orlando (MCO) to New York (JFK)
Start from THB 1,551.86
Book Now
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