Top 20 Most Jaw-Dropping Skylines Around the World

There are some cities that boasted skylines so Insta-worthy they lingered in my memory long after I had left. After traveling worldwide, I’ve narrowed the list to just 20 (which was a tough choice!), so the countdown is on right here, right now…

20. Taipei, Taiwan

I was seriously in awe of Taipei’s skyline – it looked futuristic yet still deeply rooted in tradition, with the iconic Taipei 101 towering like a giant stalk of bamboo against the horizon. Even though the Burj Khalifa later stole its title as the world’s tallest, I thought Taipei 101 remained a breathtaking sight, especially lit up at night! 

What I loved most was how the sleek skyscrapers blended with traditional Taiwanese touches, perfectly reflecting the city’s mix of ancient culture and cutting-edge tech. The lush green Yangming Mountains to the north and the Central Mountains to the south framed the whole scene in a dramatic natural backdrop that made it feel even more extraordinary! 

My favorite highlights…

• Capturing Taipei’s skyline just after a rain shower as I thought it looked most magical then – the city lights reflected off the wet surfaces and created a really dazzling effect. 

Where I found the best viewing… 

• I went to Taipei 101, formerly the world’s tallest building and saw a stunning 369-degree panoramic view of the city from its observatory. The observatory is located on the 89th and 91st floors. 
• For a more natural and less crowded spot to view, I also hiked up Elephant Mountain, known locally as Xiangshan. The hike was relatively short but steep and I completed in 25 minutes.

Practical Tips and Information…

• Getting Around: I found the MRT system was highly efficient for getting around, and the best stations like Taipei 101/World Trade Center placed me right in the heart of awesome photo opportunities. 
• Best time to visit: October to November (when the weather is cool and less rainy)
• Tallest Building: Taipei 101 which was once the world’s tallest building and stands at 508 meters (1,667 feet) tall.
• Map Location

19. Frankfurt, Germany

I thought Frankfurt’s skyline was truly striking—locals even call it ‘Mainhattan,’ and standing by the Main River I could see why, with sleek towers like the Commerzbank soaring overhead!

I loved spotting the 331-meter Europaturm and the elegant Messeturm with its pyramid peak, but what really moved me was the contrast—those futuristic giants rising behind Römerberg’s reconstructed Old Town, where the timber-framed houses whispered of the medieval days of Germany. To me, that blend of old and new told the story of Frankfurt’s resilience, rebuilt from WWII devastation into a gleaming hub of finance and culture!

My personal highlights…

Where I found the best viewing… 

• I loved viewing from The Main Tower which was located in the heart of Frankfurt’s financial district, as it offered one of the best viewpoints of the city skyline from its observation deck. 
• It was also great to view from the rooftop garden of the Skyline Plaza in Frankfurt’s Europaviertel district.

Practical Tips and Information…

• Getting around: I found the public transport, especially the S-Bahn and U-Bahn were efficient for accessing different viewpoints especially if I got off at the with stations like Hauptwache and Taunusanlage. 
• Tallest building: Commerzbank Tower, which reaches a height of 259 meters (850 feet), making it one of the tallest buildings in Europe.
• Best time to visit: summer
• Map Location

18. Istanbul, Turkey

I thought Istanbul’s skyline was utterly mesmerizing—an exotic blend of domes, minarets, and sleek towers shimmering over the Bosphorus where Europe meets Asia.

I loved spotting the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace rising proudly beside the glassy skyscrapers of Levent and Maslak, a clash of old and new in Turkey that perfectly told the story of the city’s centuries-old role as a crossroads of culture, commerce, and faith!

My personal highlights…

• Watching the sunset paint Istanbul’s skyline while sipping strong Turkish coffee on a rooftop in Karaköy – the mingling of the aromas of the coffee and the salty Bosphorus breeze really enhanced my magical view! 

Where I found the best viewing… 

• Galata Tower – this medieval tower was ideal for capturing Istanbul’s historic and modern architecture and I could easily see the landmarks of the Hagia Sophia and the iconic Blue Mosque.
• Çamlıca Hill – this was one of the city’s highest points on the Asian side and this is where I saw expansive views across the Bosphorus to both the European and Asian sides.

Practical Tips and Information…

• Getting around: I found using the metro and tram to be very efficient and stops such as Sultanahmet and Karaköy put me close to major viewpoints like the Galata Tower and Hagia Sophia.
• The tallest building: Metropol Istanbul Tower 1, which stands at 301 meters (988 feet).
• Best time to visit: spring and fall (for milder weather and less tourists)
• Map Location

17. Seattle, Washington, USA

My personal highlight…

• Capturing Seattle’s skyline at sunrise – I found it created dramatic silhouettes of the city’s famous buildings. 

Where I found the best viewing… 

• I went to Kerry Park, located in the Queen Anne neighborhood and saw incredible skyline views as well as a great view of the iconic Space Needle.
• I also went to Gas Works Park which was situated on the north shore of Lake Union and saw a unique perspective of the Seattle skyline with a touch of industrial-chic! 

Practical tips and Information… 

• Getting around: I found that the light rail was extremely convenient for getting around, especially with stops like Westlake Center and University Street which are close to awesome photography locations.
• The tallest building: Columbia Center, which stands at 284 meters (932 feet) tall.
• Best time to visit: June to August (when the weather is warm and dry)
• Map Location

16. Bangkok, Thailand

I thought Bangkok’s skyline was dazzling—set along the Chao Phraya River, it felt both exotic and dynamic, with golden temples gleaming beside soaring skyscrapers.

I loved how the historic Grand Palace and the beautiful Wat Arun stood proudly against modern giants like the Baiyoke Sky Tower and the pixelated MahaNakhon, a striking blend that told the story of the Thai capital’s journey from a humble trading post to a thriving metropolis deeply tied to Buddhism and the monarchy.

My personal highlight…

• Sipping on a famous ‘Hangovertini’ from the rooftop bar at the Lebua Hotel while watching the pixelated MahaNakhon Tower light up beside the golden glow of Wat Arun and the Chao Phraya River shimmer below!

Where I found the best viewing… 

• Lebua Hotel’s Sky Bar – From here I saw panoramic views of Bangkok’s skyline and the Chao Phraya River and iconic landmarks like the MahaNakhon Tower were very visible.
• Wat Arun – I captured the skyline from the temple grounds at sunset when the golden spires glowed against the cityscape.

Practical Tips and Information…

• Getting Around: I found that Bangkok’s skyline was easily accessed via BTS stations like Saphan Taksin (for the river) or Chong Nonsi (for MahaNakhon Tower). Rooftop bars and the riverside also offered awesome spots for viewing, while tuk-tuks and taxis were also a cheap and convenient way to get around (just learn how to negotiate well first)!
• Tallest building: The tallest building in Bangkok is the Magnolias Waterfront Residences at ICONSIAM, which reaches a height of 318 meters (1,043 feet).
• Best time to visit: November to February (when the weather is cooler and drier).
• Map Location

15. Panama City, Panama

I thought Panama City’s skyline in beautiful Panama was incredibly impressive—set against a tropical waterfront, it dazzled with gleaming towers like the twisting F&F Tower.

I noticed few older buildings remained, which to me summed up the city’s rapid growth and its strategic role at the Panama Canal, transforming it into a wealthy cosmopolitan hub. I loved how the curving coastline, shimmering water, and iconic landmarks like the sail-shaped Trump Ocean Club and sleek Torre de las Américas all added to the skyline’s vibrant energy.

My favorite highlights…

• Capturing fantastic photos of Panama City’s skyline during the late afternoon as the sun began to set over the Pacific, casting a beautiful light on the buildings. I also loved how the curvy design of the F&F Tower made it look like a spinning drill! 

Where I found the best viewing… 

• I enjoyed viewing the cityscape from Ancon Hill Nature Reserve – I saw a peaceful panoramic view of the city when the sun was just setting! 
• Heading to the rooftop bar and swimming pool of the Hotel Eurostar Panamá and seeing incredible city views (pictured above)!

Practical tips and Information…

• Getting Around: I found the city’s Metro Bus system provided easy access to great view points along the Cinta Costera. 
• Tallest Building: JW Marriott Panama which stands at 284 meters (932 feet) and is a prominent feature of the city’s skyline.
• Best Time to Visit: Mid-December to April (the dry season)
• Map Location

14. San Francisco, California, USA

I thought San Francisco’s skyline was just breathtaking—it blended architectural diversity and history in such a beautiful way. I loved how the Golden Gate Bridge and Transamerica Pyramid stood alongside the colorful Victorian Painted Ladies, a mix that to me summed up the city’s innovation, culture, and resilience through earthquakes and social change.

The towering Salesforce Tower and the historic Coit Tower on Telegraph Hill also stood out, while the rolling hills, San Francisco Bay, and that famous fog wrapping around the Golden Gate made the whole setting feel incredibly atmospheric.

My highlights…

• Seeing the skyline at night, when the illuminated buildings reflected beautifully on the water.

Where I found the best viewing… 

• I found that Treasure Island in San Francisco Bay offered a unique and beautiful perspective of the city skyline.
• Twin Peaks, a famous hill in San Francisco with a pair of summits provided an awesome vantage point for viewing the city! 

Practical Tips and Information…

• Getting Around: I found that public transit, particularly the BART with stops like Embarcadero and Montgomery Street, was an easy way to reach great photo spots. 
• Tallest Building: Salesforce Tower, which stands at 326 meters (1,070 feet).
• Best time to visit: summer
• Map Location

13. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

I thought Rio de Janeiro’s cityscape in stunning Brazil was absolutely jaw-dropping—not dominated by glassy business towers, but framed by lush green mountains and the Atlantic Ocean.

I loved how Christ the Redeemer watched over the city from Corcovado and Sugarloaf Mountain rose above Guanabara Bay, with sleek skyscrapers in Copacabana and Ipanema sitting beside colonial gems downtown. To me, it perfectly summed up Rio’s journey from colonial port to world-famous cultural hub. Other landmarks that wowed me were the futuristic Niterói Contemporary Art Museum, the elegant Copacabana Palace, and the striking cone-shaped Catedral Metropolitana.

My personal highlight…

• Seeing the skyline in the early evening was magical, as the setting sun bathed the city in a golden hue, creating a truly breathtaking sight!

Where I found the best viewing… 

• I took a cable car ride to the summit of Sugar Loaf Mountain and saw the famous skyline view which included Copacabana Beach, Corcovado Mountain with the Christ the Redeemer statue, and Guanabara Bay.
• For a more under-the-radar view of the skyline, I headed to Vista Chinesa, a Chinese-style gazebo located in Tijuca Forest National Park. 

My Practical Tips and Information…

• Getting Around: I found the public transportation, including the metro with stops like Cardeal Arcoverde, was convenient for accessing picturesque spots like Sugarloaf Mountain. 
• Tallest Building: Millennium Palace, which reaches a height of 140 meters (459 feet).
• Best time to visit: December to March (the summer)
• Map Location

12. Chicago, USA

I thought Chicago’s skyline was incredible—fitting for the birthplace of the modern skyscraper! I loved how it rose from the ashes of the Great Fire of 1871, blending Louis Sullivan’s pioneering designs with modern icons like the Willis Tower and John Hancock Center alongside elegant Art Deco.

I loved how it perfectly captured the city’s resilience and architectural legacy. I was also wowed by the wave-inspired Aqua Tower, the ornate Wrigley Building, and the neo-Gothic Tribune Tower. The whole setting along Lake Michigan was spectacular, with the towers mirrored in the water and framed by leafy green parks.

My personal highlights…

• Capturing the skyline during the late afternoon as the sun dipped behind the city – it provided a stunning backdrop as well as highlighted the architectural beauty of the skyscrapers.

Where I found the best viewing… 

• Heading to The Skydeck Chicago, located in the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower) I found superb but vertigo-inducing panoramic views from the 103rd floor.
• I’m also a big fan of the viewing from Adler Planetarium. Located on Chicago’s Museum Campus, it offered a unique perspective of the Chicago skyline.

Practical Tips and Information… 

• Getting Around: The CTA trains, with convenient stops like Adams/Wabash and Chicago on the Red Line, make it easy for me to access great photography spots such as the Millennium Park and the Adler Planetarium. 
• Tallest Building: Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower), which stands at 442 meters (1,450 feet) tall.
• Best time to visit: spring to fall
• Map Location

11. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

 

Kuala Lumpur’s skyline – located in Malaysia‘s proud capital – completely won me over! I thought it was a stunning blend of Islamic, Malay, and colonial influences alongside gleaming modern towers, a cityscape that told the story of its rise from a tin mining town to a proud global capital.

 

I loved the imposing Petronas Twin Towers, the sweeping views from KL Tower, and the mix of heritage and modernity in landmarks like the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, Exchange 106, and the colorful Thean Hou Temple. Even the 421-meter Menara Kuala Lumpur, one of the world’s tallest telecom towers, impressed me. With tropical hills as its backdrop, I thought the whole skyline felt like a bold fusion of ambition, tradition, and innovation.

My favorite highlight…

• Seeing Kuala Lumpur’s skyline during the early evening as the city lights began to illuminate the sky – it  created a stunning contrast against the fading light.

Where I found the best viewing… 

• From the Skybridge of the 41st and 42nd floors of the Petronas Twin Towers – the panoramic views of the city skyline were amazing!
• On the rooftop bar of the Heli Lounge Bar which also doubles as a helipad – I saw stunning 360-degree city views!

Practical Tips and Information…

• Getting around: I found the KL Monorail and MRT were convenient for reaching great spots like KLCC or Bukit Bintang. 
• Tallest Building: Merdeka 118, which stands at 678.9 meters (2,227 feet), making it the second tallest building in the world as of its completion.
• Best time to visit: May to July or December to February (the dry seasons)
• Map Location

10. Toronto, Canada

I discovered Toronto’s skyline was a fascinating mix of old and new—I loved seeing the 1899 Old City Hall standing alongside modern icons like the CN Tower and the sleek financial towers.

It perfectly told the story of the city’s rise from a colonial town to Canada’s largest metropolis and economic hub. I was also struck by the Royal Bank Plaza with its gold-tinted windows and the soaring First Canadian Place. Set along Lake Ontario and framed by islands, parks, and lively neighborhoods, the whole cityscape felt wonderfully picturesque.

My favorite highlight…

• Capturing Toronto’s skyline during the twilight hours when the sky shifted through shades of purple and blue – I saw it beautifully backlighting the city’s distinctive skyscrapers. 

Where I found the best viewing… 

• The Toronto Islands, located just offshore in Lake Ontario, offered a peaceful and unique perspective of the city skyline.
• Polson Pier and Cherry Beach were also great spots for photographing the cityscape.

Practical Tips and Information…

• Getting Around: The TTC subway, with stops like Union Station and St. Andrew, provided me easy access to key vantage points like the Toronto Islands or the CN Tower area.
• The tallest building: CN Tower, which stands at 553.3 meters (1,815 feet), it was the world’s tallest freestanding structure until 2007.
• Best time to visit: late spring to early fall
• Map Location

9. Singapore

Singapore’s skyline really dazzled me—I thought it looked futuristic yet still tied to tradition, with the historic Victoria Theatre standing alongside the soaring Marina Bay Sands and the glowing Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay.

It captured the city’s love of innovation and sustainability. I was especially wowed by the lotus-shaped ArtScience Museum and the elegant Fullerton Hotel, reminders of how far the city has come from its colonial port days to its status as a global hub. Rising dramatically around Marina Bay and framed by lush greenery and waterfront promenades, the whole scene was unforgettable.

My personal highlight…

• Seeing the cityscape during the blue hour, just after sunset, when the sky turned a deep indigo and the city lights began to sparkle! 

Where I found the best viewing… 

• The Marina Bay Sands SkyPark located on the rooftop of the Marina Bay Sands resort was an awesome spot to see 360-degree panoramic view of the city’s landmarks. Here I saw the Singapore River, Gardens by the Bay, and the stunning Supertree Grove.
• The Altitude Gallery & Bar which I found located on the 63rd floor of One Raffles Place was a very stylish spot to see the city views.

Practical Tips and Information…

• Getting Around: The MRT, with convenient stops like Raffles Place and Bayfront, offered me easy access to prime photography spots like Marina Bay.
• The tallest building: Tanjong Pagar Centre (also known as Guoco Tower), which reaches a height of 290 meters (951 feet).
• Best time to visit: February to April (the dry season) 
• Map Location

8. Sydney, Australia

Sydney’s skyline took my breath away—I thought it beautifully told the story of its transformation from a British colony to a dazzling cosmopolitan city. I loved how historic landmarks like the Queen Victoria Building stood beside modern icons like the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, giving the whole city a vibrant, multicultural energy tied so closely to the water.

I personally thought the waterfront setting was the most striking feature, framed by the Opera House’s sails, the graceful arc of the Harbour Bridge, and pockets of lush green parkland. Standout buildings for me included the elegant Crown Sydney, the soaring Centrepoint Tower, the modernist MLC Centre, and the sleek AMP Tower.

My personal highlight…

• Seeing the skyline at dawn, when the first light of day illuminated the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, offering a soft, picturesque backdrop! 

Where I found the best viewing… 

• I found that the Pylon Lookout, located on the southeast pylon of Sydney Harbour Bridge had spectacular views of the Sydney skyline, the Sydney Opera House, and the harbour.
• Barangaroo Reserve was a beautifully landscaped park on the western edge of Sydney’s central business district, where I saw a scenic waterfront view of the city. 

Practical Tips and Information… 

• Getting Around: I found that the public transport system, which included ferries and trains with stops at Circular Quay and Milsons Point, provided excellent access to scenic spots.
• Tallest Building: Crown Sydney, which stands at 271 meters (889 feet).
• Best time to visit: (September to November) and (March to May) for the best weather.
• Map Location

7. Paris, France

Paris’s skyline was instantly recognizable and felt refreshingly different to me—not dominated by skyscrapers but beautifully low-rise, so its historic monuments truly stood out.

I loved how the iconic Eiffel Tower, the Gothic Notre-Dame, and the modern Louvre Pyramid all rose among rows of elegant 19th-century Haussmannian buildings, a scene that told the story of the city’s evolution from medieval roots to a world-famous capital of style. Set along the Seine with tree-lined boulevards and dreamy views, I thought the whole skyline was irresistibly romantic.

My highlights…

• I managed to snap my best photos of Paris’ skyline during the early morning, when the soft light beautifully highlighted the historic architecture.

Where I found the best viewing… 

• While many tourists head to the Eiffel Tower for incredible views, I also headed to Montparnasse Tower for the 56th-floor observation deck. This deck offered incredible 360-degree city views, including iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre.
• For a more relaxed setting, I visited the pretty park Parc des Buttes-Chaumont. Here, I enjoyed a view of my favorite building, the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, perched on Montmartre Hill, in the background!

My Practical Tips and Information…

• Getting around: Using the Métro was a breeze and stations like Trocadéro and Bir-Hakeim offered close access to iconic views. 
• The tallest building: Montparnasse Tower, which stands at 210 meters (689 feet) tall.
• Best time to visit: late spring to early fall
• Map Location

6. London, England, UK

I thought London’s skyline was fascinating—it felt like watching history and modernity collide. I loved how strict preservation laws kept treasures like Big Ben, the Palace of Westminster, and the Houses of Parliament intact, while bold new icons like The Shard, the Gherkin, and Tower 42 showed off the city’s forward-thinking side.

The mix of tall and modest buildings gave it just the right variety, and I was especially struck by the sweep of the skyline along the Thames, with the London Eye rising above it all. Standing there, I really felt like I was witnessing London’s transformation from a Roman settlement to a modern world capital!

My favorite highlights…

• Capturing London’s skyline during early morning hours, just as the city began to wake from its slumber.
• Walking along the South Bank at sunset and seeing the city lights reflected on the Thames and The Shard glowing in the distance – I loved also then stumbling across a small book market under Waterloo Bridge! 

Where I found the best viewing… 

• I saw superb panoramic views from the trendy Sky Garden.
• Although a bit removed from the center, I found that Primrose Hill in the summer proved to be an awesome spot to view the skyline, featuring St. Paul’s Cathedral, the BT Tower, and Canary Wharf in the near distance.

Practical Tips and Information..

• Getting around: The London Underground was a very convenient option for getting around and stations like Westminster and London Bridge provided me easy access to prime viewing spots.
• Tallest Building: The Shard, which reaches a height of 310 meters (1,016 feet).
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall
• Map Location

4. Shanghai, China

I thought Shanghai’s skyline was one of the most eye-catching I’d ever seen—China’s largest city and financial hub, it wowed me with the futuristic Oriental Pearl Tower and Lujiazui’s soaring skyscrapers set against the Bund’s elegant neoclassical and Art Deco facades.

I was in awe of how it had transformed from a colonial trading post into a dynamic global powerhouse. I especially loved the mix of styles and colors, from the spiraling Shanghai Tower to the historic Bund waterfront, a striking blend of modern ambition and colonial heritage.

My highlights…

• Seeing the incredible skyline at dusk, as the city lights started to twinkle against the evening sky. 

Where I found the best viewing… 

• The Bund (a waterfront promenade along the Huangpu River) was an awesome spot to view the cityscape.
• I went up to the 32nd floor of the stylish The Vue Bar (located in the Hyatt on the Bund) and saw superb sweeping views of the city! 

Practical Tips and Information…

• Getting Around – The metro system was excellent for navigating the city and stations like Lujiazui were ideally situated for capturing the Pudong skyline. 
• The tallest building: Shanghai Tower, which reaches a height of 632 meters (2,073 feet).
• Best time to visit: spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant
• Map Location

4. Tokyo, Japan

I thought Tokyo’s skyline was absolutely spellbinding—it perfectly captured the city’s pride in its heritage and its forward-thinking drive.

I loved how traditional temples and colorful low-rise neighborhoods sat beside modern icons like the Tokyo Skytree, the red Tokyo Tower, and the futuristic Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower, a blend that told the story of Japan’s post-war recovery and rapid modernization. What truly took my breath away though was the setting—the vast sprawl glittering with neon lights, dramatically framed by the silhouette of Mount Fuji in the distance! 

My favorite highlights…

• Seeing the exotic cityscape in the early evening when the city lights started to brighten against the twilight sky! 

Where I found the best viewing… 

• The famous Tokyo Skytree had two observation decks, the Tembo Deck and the Tembo Gallery, offering a fantastic view of the city’s skyline. 
• Roppongi Hills Mori Tower was another excellent spot to view. The Mori Art Museum on the 52nd floor had both contemporary art and a magnificent view of Tokyo from its observatory. 

Practical Tips and Information.. 

• Getting around: Public transportation, particularly the JR Yamanote Line with stations like Shinjuku and Tokyo, provided me with great access to prime photography locations such as the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building or Roppongi Hills.
• The tallest building: Tokyo Skytree, which stands at 634 meters (2,080 feet).
• Best time to visit: spring (late March to April) or in the fall (late October to November)
• Map Location

3. Hong Kong, China

Hong Kong’s skyline never stopped wowing me—even after years of living there, I was still spellbound every time it lit up at night! 

I loved how sleek skyscrapers like the International Commerce Centre, Two IFC, and the angular Bank of China Tower, all shaped by Feng Shui, reflected the city’s modern power, while colonial buildings and traditional temples kept its cultural roots alive. What made it unforgettable, though, was the setting—Victoria Harbour shimmering in front, green mountains rising behind, and the occasional junk boat sailing past, adding the perfect photogenic touch!

My favourite highlight…

• Seeing this dynamic skyline, illuminated each night by the Symphony of Lights – they created a vibrant display across Victoria Harbour. 

Where I found the best viewing… 

• I took the Peak Tram to the top of Victoria Peak and found the observation deck called ‘Sky Terrace 428,’ where I enjoyed incredible views of the city!
• One of my favorite skyline views was from the Kowloon Promenade, which runs along the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront. Just go and see what I mean – it’s jaw-dropping! 

Practical Tips and Information…

• Getting Around: The MTR, with stations like Central and Tsim Sha Tsui, provided me with easy access to fantastic vantage points such as the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade and The Peak. 
• The Tallest Building: International Commerce Centre (ICC), which stands at 484 meters (1,588 feet).
• Best time to visit: October to early December (for the most comfortable weather)
• Map Location

2. New York, USA

I thought New York’s skyline was seriously classy—instantly recognizable from countless movies, from Spider-Man swinging through its towers to King Kong clinging to its heights. To me, it perfectly reflected the city’s architectural and cultural evolution, with icons like the Empire State Building and One World Trade Center symbolizing resilience and renewal after 9/11.

I loved the mix of Art Deco gems, sleek modern towers, and the elegant spire of the Chrysler Building, while the Statue of Liberty stood proudly nearby. Set across Manhattan between the Hudson and East Rivers, the whole cityscape felt dramatic and alive, with skyscrapers rising above the buzz of the streets and waterways! 

My personal highlight…

• Seeing the skyline in the early evening, just as the city’s lights began to sparkle against the dusky sky. 

Where I found the best viewing… 

• Brooklyn Bridge Park, right along the East River in Brooklyn, is the spot where I caught one of the most iconic and picturesque views of the Manhattan skyline! 
• I loved the Empire State Building for superb skyline views but I also enjoyed the top of the Rock Observation Deck at Rockefeller Center, which offered an excellent perspective of the New York City skyline, including Central Park, Midtown Manhattan, and downtown. 

Practical Tips and Information…

• How to get around: I found the subway, with key stops like Fulton Street in Manhattan or High Street in Brooklyn, offered excellent access to iconic views from places like Brooklyn Bridge Park or the Top of the Rock.
• The tallest building: One World Trade Center, also known as Freedom Tower, which stands at 541.3 meters (1,776 feet) including its spire.
• Best time to visit: late spring or early fall 
• Map Location

1. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai’s skyline had to be my number one—it felt like one of the most visually striking cityscapes I’d ever seen, rising rapidly from the desert in just a few decades. I was in awe of the futuristic towers glittering against the Arabian Gulf, especially the soaring Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world.

It told the story of the city’s transformation from a modest port to a glamorous global hub, powered by oil wealth and ambition. I loved spotting the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab and the twisting Cayan Tower, all of which reflected Dubai’s pride in both its Islamic heritage and its bold economic power.

My favorite highlights…

• Seeing the striking cityscape just before sunset – this was when the light perfectly accentuated the futuristic architecture and the city began to glow under the twilight! 

My travel tips for the best viewing… 

• I found the Burj Khalifa Observation Deck on the 124th, 125th, and 148th floors had incredible unobstructed views of the city’s skyline, including the Palm Jumeirah, The World Islands, and the Arabian Gulf.
• I saw fantastic views from Dubai Creek Harbour which included seeing the Burj Khalifa and other modern skyscrapers.

Practical Tips and Information… 

• Getting Around: The Dubai Metro, with stations like Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall and Emirates Towers, offered me convenient access to excellent viewing spots. 
• The Tallest Building: Burj Khalifa stands at a staggering 828 meters (2,717 feet), making it the tallest building in the world! 
• Best time to visit: November to March (when the weather is cooler)
• Map Location