The 7 Most Beautiful Airports in the World According to 'Prix Versailles'

June 17, 2026, 12:28 pm | Read time: 4 minutes

The architecture award “Prix Versailles” annually honors outstanding buildings in the commercial sector. In 2026, several airports will also be recognized, including a newly built terminal at a German airport. TRAVELBOOK presents the nominated airports.

Whether universities, museums, or sports facilities: Worldwide, buildings are being constructed that are not only functional but also set architectural standards. The “Prix Versailles” has been highlighting such projects since 2015. This year, the organization once again awarded prizes in eight categories–including for the most beautiful airports in the world.

World Selection 2026: German Terminal Included

For the “World Selection 2026,” seven airports or terminals were chosen that, according to the jury, impress with their exceptional design and architectural quality. Three of them will additionally receive a world title at the end of the year in the categories “Prix Versailles,” “Interior,” or “Exterior.”

Both newly opened and extensively modernized airports and terminals are awarded. In the selection process, the jury evaluates not only the architectural quality but also how well a building reflects the culture and identity of its region. After all, airports are often the first and last impression of a destination for many travelers, serving as an important calling card for a country or city.

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For the first time since 2021, a German airport is among the nominees again. Back then, Berlin Brandenburg Willy Brandt Airport was not only included in the selection but also received a special award for its interior. Which terminal represents Germany on this year’s list of the world’s most beautiful airports is detailed below. We also introduce two other remarkable airports from this year’s selection. A list of all nominees can be found below.

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3 Particularly Beautiful Airports and Terminals

Germany: Frankfurt Airport, Terminal 3

Having just opened in late April 2026, Frankfurt’s Terminal 3 is gearing up for the future. Spanning an area of 1.3 square kilometers, which according to a press release is about the size of downtown Frankfurt itself, the terminal features a modern main building and three piers. Currently, it can accommodate up to 19 million travelers. As the website explains, around 4 billion euros were invested in the expansion, making it the largest privately financed infrastructure project in Europe.

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Architecturally, Terminal 3 emphasizes spaciousness and orientation. The facility was designed like a city: piers, waiting areas, and lounges are arranged like streets and squares. Large glass fronts allow plenty of daylight into the building, giving the halls an open, bright atmosphere. A special art installation featuring three floating ring sculptures that constantly rotate and add colorful accents also makes the room’s appearance change continuously.

India: Lokapriya Gopinath Bardoloi International Airport, Terminal 2

Those landing in Guwahati get an impression of Northeast India as soon as they enter the terminal. Curved ceiling shapes inspired by Assam’s landscape and regional flora characterize the building. Additionally, artworks and traditional crafts have been integrated into the interiors. Thus, the terminal feels less like a classic airport and more like an initial cultural insight into the region.

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USA: San Diego International Airport, Terminal 1

The new Terminal 1 in San Diego quickly makes one forget that it is one of the busiest airports in the U.S. with only one runway. The defining feature is the new, 244-meter-long, curved glass facade that floods the building with daylight. The design reflects the city’s waterfronts and gardens, giving the terminal a local character. There are also terraces with views of the bay and large seating areas. Art that could also be displayed in a gallery adorns the exterior and the hall. For example, a large pink jellyfish stands in front of the main entrance, golden ornaments decorate the check-in area, and live music plays on a small stage.

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The 7 Most Beautiful Airports in the World 2026 at a Glance

Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, Terminal 3, Guangzhou, China
Frankfurt Airport, Terminal 3, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
Lokapriya Gopinath Bardoloi International Airport, Terminal 2, Guwahati, India
Navi Mumbai International Airport, Terminal 1, Navi Mumbai, India
Techo International Airport, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Pittsburgh International Airport, Pittsburgh, USA
San Diego International Airport, Terminal 1, San Diego, USA

This article is a machine translation of the original German version of TRAVELBOOK and has been reviewed for accuracy and quality by a native speaker. For feedback, please contact us at info@travelbook.de.