One of the defining features that sets one city apart from another is its mesmerising skyline, composed of distinctive landmarks unique to each place. While some travellers are drawn to lush greens and wilderness, others are captivated by the glitzy skylines of big cities. If these urban landscapes also include structures overlooking seas and oceans with mountain ranges in the background, their silhouette appears all the more breathtaking. So, allow us to take you on a journey through some of the best skylines in the world.
While the number of skyscrapers and their heights often determine a city’s skyline, it’s the architectural, aesthetic and artistic aspects that leave a lasting impression. From Dubai’s Burj Khalifa and Paris’ Eiffel Tower to Sydney’s Opera House and Rio De Janeiro’s Christ The Redeemer, our list features various places across the world that are easily recognisable owing to their iconic skylines. So, if you are wondering where to head for your next vacation, why not choose the perfect destination based on these striking urban vistas?
Explore the world’s most iconic skylines
Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town’s skyline is a unique blend of colonial architecture set against the striking backdrop of Table Mountain, all framed by the turquoise ocean waters. Its beauty is matched by its intrigue, with the city’s coastline adding another dimension to its visual appeal.
Key attractions: Cape Point Nature Reserve, Groot Constantia, Robben Island, Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden and V&A Waterfront
Best time to visit: January to April
How to reach: Cape Town Airport is approximately 20 km from central Cape Town
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Dubai, UAE
Dubai undoubtedly offers one of the best skylines in the world, and experiencing its glitz and glam is a must. With the tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa (2,716.5 feet), as its centrepiece, and other towering structures including Dubai Marina and the iconic Burj Al Arab, a prominent 7-star hotel known for its intriguing architecture, the skyline of this city in UAE is magnificent. And the choreographed fountain system, the Dubai Fountain, enhances its beauty, especially when the city lights up after dark. Additionally, activities like skydiving and zip lining offer a bird’s eye view of Dubai’s massive skyline, featuring around 513 skyscrapers.
Key attractions: View from the top of Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, Museum of the Future, Dubai Miracle Garden and Kite Beach
Best time to visit: November to February
How to reach: Dubai Airport is approximately 5 km from central Dubai
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Florence, Italy
While the capital of Tuscany may not have any towering skyscrapers, it stands as a testament to the glory of Renaissance art and architecture. The city’s skyline is a work of art, especially with landmarks like the Duomo shining against the backdrop of the picturesque mountain ranges. The skyline of Florence resembles a painting on a canvas, and the Piazzale Michelangelo is known to offer one of the most breathtaking vistas in Italy.
Key attractions: Accademia Gallery, Uffizi Gallery, Palazzo Vecchio Museum and Tower, Santa Maria Novella Church and The Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge)
Best time to visit: May to September
How to reach: Amerigo Vespucci Airport is approximately 4 km from central Florence
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Hong Kong, China
Another city with one of the best skylines in the world, Hong Kong has an impressive number of skyscrapers, precisely 657, as reported by Visual Capitalist in May 2023. With six buildings standing over 300 metres (984.252 feet), Hong Kong’s skyline is iconic and stunning. The city puts on a mesmerising light display after dark, offering a dazzling view that can be witnessed from numerous viewpoints, including Victoria Peak, Kowloon Peak and Garden Hill.
Key attractions: Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck, Star Ferry, Hong Kong Observation Wheel and Hong Kong Museum of Art
Best time to visit: March to April and October to November
How to reach: Hong Kong International Airport is approximately 38 km from central Hong Kong
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Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur’s claim to fame as a city with one of the most impressive skylines in the world owes much to the iconic 1,483-foot Petronas Twin Towers. Alongside this architectural marvel, the city is home to numerous structures that exemplify fine engineering and architecture, complemented by lush green spaces. Notable landmarks include the KL Tower, Merdeka 118, The Exchange 106, Four Seasons Place and Oxley Tower.
Key attractions: Batu Caves, Sunway Lagoon Theme Park, Sultan Abdul Samad Building, National Planetarium and Lake Gardens
Best time to visit: June to August and December to January
How to reach: Kuala Lumpur International Airport is approximately 56 km from central KL
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London, UK
When you think of London, iconic landmarks like Big Ben, the London Eye, and the London Bridge set against the backdrop of the towering Shard instantly come to mind. London is one of the most glamorous cities, offering a dazzling night view of its skyline, with the River Thames sparkling brightly in the frame. Hop on to the IFS Cloud Cable Car for a breathtaking view of the city’s skyline.
Key attractions: Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, Madame Tussauds London, Tower of London, Westminster Abbey and SEA LIFE London
Best time to visit: March to May and September to October
How to reach: London City Airport is approximately 15 km from central London
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New York City, USA
While talking of the best skylines in the world, it’s impossible to overlook the largest city in the world by area, New York City, especially due to the iconic Statue of Liberty. With around 421 skyscrapers, including 16 standing over 300 metres (984.252 feet), The Big Apple has a stunning skyline owing to structures such as the One World Trade Centre, Chrysler Building and the Empire State Building.
Key attractions: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 9/11 Memorial Museum, Times Square, Central Park and Times Square
Best time to visit: April to June and September to November
How to reach: LaGuardia Airport is approximately 24 km from central NYC
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Paris, France
The beauty of Paris’ skyline lies in its scarcity of towering skyscrapers that could obstruct the view of the ever-popular Eiffel Tower. This emblematic structure of the city is visible from nearly every vantage point, but a few locations offer stunning views of the skyline, including Notre Dame Cathedral, Parc de Belleville, Arc de Triomphe, Montmartre and Tour Montparnasse.
Key attractions: Louvre Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, The Pantheon, Les Invalides and Palace of Versailles
Best time to visit: February to April and September to December
How to reach: Charles de Gaulle Airport is approximately 34 km from central Paris
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Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
The striking skyline of Rio de Janeiro owes much of its iconic status to the colossal statue of Christ the Redeemer, one of the new seven wonders of the modern world, perched on the slopes of Corcovado Mountain. This monumental figure overlooks the silver sands and turquoise waters, creating a truly iconic view. The skyline extends along the Guanabara Bay coast, starting from the Pan de Azúcar hill in the Urca and Botafogo neighbourhoods and includes prominent buildings such as the Rio Sul Center, culminating in the Cerro del Corcovado in the Tijuca National Park, with Christ the Redeemer at its top.
Key attractions: Tijuca National Park, Jardim Botânico, Jardim Botânico, Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar) and Ilha Fiscal
Best time to visit: December to March
How to reach: Tom Jobim International Airport is approximately 18 km from central Rio De Janeiro
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Santorini, Greece
Santorini may not have skyscrapers or towering monuments, but it secures its place on this list with its unique skyline. This beautiful island features white structures, some adorned with blue domes, clinging to the cliffs and overlooking the Aegean Sea. It is a destination like no other, set against the backdrop of the very few active volcanoes in Greece, forming an exceptional skyline.
Key attractions: Archaeological site of Heraion in Perachora, Dispilio of Kastoria, Akrotiri of Thira, Capodistrias Museum and Katharοs beach
Best time to visit: April to May and September to October
How to reach: Santorini Airport is approximately 3 km from central Santorini
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Sydney, Australia
Sydney’s distinct skyline is defined by two iconic landmarks — the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. These world-famous structures give the capital of New South Wales its distinct and recognisable silhouette. The skyline is also graced by other known skyscrapers, including the MLC Centre, AMP Tower and the Centrepoint Tower.
Key attractions: Art Gallery of New South Wales, Australian National Maritime Museum, Bondi Beach, Manly and Taronga Zoo Sydney
Best time to visit: March to May and September to November
How to reach: Sydney Airport is approximately 12 km from central Sydney
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Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo, the third largest city in the world by area, doesn’t have numerous supertall (over 300 metres) buildings due to its vulnerability to natural calamities. Nevertheless, it proudly hosts around 200 skyscrapers, including Tokyo Skytree, the tallest structure in Japan at 634 metres (2080.05 feet), serving as a broadcasting and telecommunications tower. Adding to the city’s captivating skyline is Tokyo Tower, the Eiffel Tower look-alike standing at 333 metres (1092.52 feet).
Key attractions: Tokyo National Museum, Sensoji Temple, Rikugien, Shibuya and Sengakuji Temple
Best time to visit: March to April and September to November
How to reach: Haneda Airport is approximately 26 km from central Tokyo
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Toronto, Canada
With its modern and diverse architecture, Toronto’s skyline is a true marvel. At its heart stands the iconic CN Tower, the tallest free-standing structure on land outside of Asia, which pierces the sky at 553 metres (1,815 feet). This architectural wonder not only offers unparalleled panoramic views but also proudly endures lightning storms thanks to its sturdy construction. As the sun sets, the cityscape comes alive with a symphony of lights from the myriad of skyscrapers that compose this skyline. Whether seen from the shores of Lake Ontario, a ferry to Toronto Island or from one of the city’s rooftop bars, Toronto’s skyline is a sight to behold.
Key attractions: Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, The Royal Ontario Museum, The Art Gallery of Ontario, St. Lawrence Market and Casa Loma castle
Best time to visit: April to May and September to October
How to reach: Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is approximately 4 km from central Toronto
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(Hero and feature image: Rasto SK Shutterstock)
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes a city’s skyline impressive or notable?
Impressive or notable city skylines are often defined by towering structures and buildings with unique and captivating architectures, which lend character and charm to the urban landscape.
Which cities are known for having the best skylines in the world?
Several cities around the world are renowned for their exceptional skylines. Notable examples include Dubai, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur and New York.
Are there rankings for the best skylines in the world?
Yes, there are rankings that assess and rank city skylines based on various criteria.
What factors are considered when ranking city skylines?
City skyline rankings consider factors such as the number of skyscrapers and the presence of exceptionally tall buildings, all of which contribute to the overall impression and aesthetic appeal of a city’s skyline.
Can I visit viewpoints to see these skylines up close?
Yes, almost all these cities have dedicated viewpoints to witness the skylines in the best possible way.
Is it possible to photograph city skylines at different times of the day?
Yes, you can capture city skylines in different lighting conditions by being at the right viewpoint at the appropriate time of day.
Are there specific cities known for their nighttime skylines?
Indeed, some cities are famous for their stunning nighttime skylines, with cities like Dubai, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur and London being particularly dazzling after dark.
Are there any environmentally friendly or sustainable skylines in the world?
Hong Kong is recognised for having a relatively more environmentally friendly and sustainable skyline. Additionally, other environmentally conscious cities include Cape Town, Vancouver, Helsinki, Portland, and Berlin.
Can I find information about the best skyline viewpoints in a city before I travel?
Yes, you can find information about the best skyline viewpoints in a city by visiting its official tourism website.
What are some up-and-coming cities with emerging skylines?
Several futuristic cities are on the horizon, promising magnificent skylines. These include Smart Forest City in Mexico, Telosa in the USA, The Line in Saudi Arabia, Oceanix Busan in South Korea, Chengdu Sky Valley in China and Amaravati in India.
How can I best appreciate the beauty of a city’s skyline while travelling?
The perfect way to appreciate the beauty of a city’s skyline is to head to the best viewpoint offering a panoramic view.
Written By
Pyusha Chatterjee
A journalist, Pyusha has previously worked with media organisations including The New Indian Express and Hindustan Times. A solo traveller by choice, she loves exploring life more than anything else, after food of course. When she isn't gardening, writing, reading, cooking or singing out loud, you can spot her watching films and series, debating with ..Read More
