Aviation and Art: The Most Instagrammable Airports in the World

In today’s digital age, social media has become a powerful platform for sharing our experiences and capturing the beauty surrounding us. Airports, often seen as soulless transit hubs, have begun to embrace art and architecture to create visually stunning spaces perfect for Instagram-worthy moments.

Aside from posting a picture about the boarding gate, have you ever taken a picture of a sculpture, or a painting displayed at an airport? From mesmerizing murals to breathtaking installations, let’s explore some of the most Instagrammable airports worldwide and discover where aviation and art collide.

1. Singapore Changi Airport, Singapore:

Known for its state-of-the-art facilities and efficiency, Singapore Changi Airport takes the airport experience to a whole new different level. But what truly sets it apart is its commitment to incorporating art throughout its terminals. Plus, there is even a section on its webpage dedicated to the attractions you can find at the airport.

One of its most iconic is the “Kinetic Rain” installation, comprising 1,216 bronze droplets that move in a synchronized dance. Each sculpture can form a different shape, varying from a dragon to an airplane. Furthermore, the airport displays enchanting gardens, such as the Butterfly Garden and the Sunflower Garden, which provide a serene backdrop for your Instagram feed.

We can also be amazed to learn that the airport developed a nature-theme complex linking to one of its passenger terminals. This infrastructure includes many attractions for passengers, but its masterpiece is the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, the “Rain Vortex.” This stunning water display cascades down seven stories and has been featured in many movies.

2. Incheon International Airport, South Korea:

As one of the busiest airports in the world, Incheon International Airport in Seoul blends modernity with traditional Korean culture. The airport’s impressive surroundings include the Korean “Culture Street”, which showcases traditional Korean art forms, such as pottery and calligraphy, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the country’s rich heritage.

Visitors can also immerse themselves in an educational tour if they visit the Cultural Museum of Korea. This museum includes impressive artefacts such as the world’s oldest known wooden slab print and the world’s oldest surviving book printed by moveable metal type.

If that wasn’t impressive enough, we can witness the Changing of the Guard performance and the Walk of the Royal Family. Both events bring authentic Korean culture to life, offering travelers a genuinely memorable experience.

3. Hamad International Airport, Qatar:

It’s common knowledge that to find some of the most architecturally innovative airports, you should look to Gulf countries such as Qatar. Hamad International Airport in Doha is a visual feast for art enthusiasts. The airport’s expansive collection features contemporary and traditional art pieces, including sculptures, paintings, and installations.

One of its most famous highlights is the “Lamp Bear,” a 23-foot teddy bear covered in 14,000 LED lights. This iconic yellow teddy bear with a desk lamp is located in the airport’s grand lobby and is a sight to admire. Also, we can encounter the captivating “Desert Horse”, which embodies the essence of travel and movement and is reminiscent of its historical use for transportation. With its elegant architecture and stunning art displays, the airport offers endless photo opportunities for all avid Instagrammers.

4. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, Netherlands:

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is renowned for its efficient operations and commitment to showcasing the Netherlands’ art and culture. The airport houses a vast collection of contemporary Dutch art, with exhibits changing regularly.

And if we don’t have time to visit the most famous Dutch museum during a trip to Amsterdam, don’t worry. One of the most fascinating attractions is the “Dutch Masters,” which showcases a selection of famous pieces from the Rijksmuseum. Additionally, the airport is a cultural and artistic hub, featuring a library and an indoor park with real trees and a miniature forest.

With its unique art displays and modern design, Schiphol Airport offers a perfect blend of culture and aviation for Instagram.

5. Denver International Airport, USA:

Denver International Airport is known for its architecture and dedication to public art. The airport displays an impressive collection of permanent and temporary exhibits, including murals, sculptures, and installations. With its glowing red eyes, the iconic “Blue Mustang” sculpture has become a symbol of the airport. This 32-foot sculpture depicts a blue Mustang horse rearing.

The “I See What You Mean” installation, also known as the “Big Blue Bear,” peering into the airport, is a visitor’s favorite. Denver International Airport combines art, aviation, and the natural beauty of Colorado, making it a must-visit for Instagrammers.

As you see, gone are the times when airports were merely functional spaces. Today, they have transformed into artistic and architectural marvels that captivate and inspire travelers. From Singapore’s Changi Airport to Denver International Airport, these airports have successfully merged aviation with art, creating visually stunning spaces perfect for those seeking the most Instagrammable moments. So, next time you find yourself at an airport, keep your camera ready to capture the beauty and creativity that awaits you. Happy travels and happy Instagramming!