Traveling introduces us to a realm of new experiences, from tantalizing cuisine and rich cultures to awe-inspiring landscapes. And when your journey culminates in a landing at an airport of unparalleled beauty and charm, your delight knows no bounds.
CNN has curated a list of five airports worldwide that offer such dreamy landings, each promising to leave you spellbound.
1. Santos Dumont, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Santos Dumont, nestled in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is a gem among airports, boasting breathtaking vistas of the city. Positioned in Guanabara Bay, it treats passengers to captivating aerial views, especially on the right-hand side, where iconic landmarks like Sugarloaf Mountain await.
2. Velana International Airport, Maldives
Maldives, renowned for its stunning beauty, is home to Velana International Airport on Hulhulé Island. With its runway once crafted from steel slats in the 1960s, it now offers a smooth asphalt surface. Passengers are treated to mesmerizing views of the Indian Ocean, with both sides of the plane offering breathtaking panoramas.
3. Genoa City Airport, Italy
Landing at Genoa Airport in Italy presents travelers with a dreamy vista of the Mediterranean Sea. One side of the plane offers glimpses of the Ligurian Sea, while the other showcases the city’s beauty, framed by majestic mountains.
4. Kigali International Airport, Rwanda
As you descend upon Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, prepare to be enchanted by the city’s stunning views. Nestled amidst lush green hills and vibrant red earth roads, with distant mountains punctuating the horizon, the approach offers a captivating introduction to this landlocked African country. Be sure to sit on the right side for a glimpse of the serene Lake Kivu, a natural border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
5. São Paulo, Brazil
São Paulo, Brazil’s largest Portuguese-speaking city, hosts another marvel of an airport. Aerial views of São Paulo, particularly at dusk, reveal a spectacle of city lights and urban sprawl that never fails to astonish. Whether you’re on the left or right side of the plane, the enchanting vista of this vibrant metropolis will leave you in awe.
These five airports promise not only smooth landings but also unforgettable experiences that set the stage for your adventures ahead.
