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…
20. Taipei, Taiwan
I was completely in awe of the incredible skyline of the Taiwanese capital! It was dominated by the very impressive Taipei 101, which was once the world’s tallest building (and was inspired by bamboo)! Although the Burj Khalifa in Dubai surpassed it’s height upon its completion in 2010, I thought it was still a hugely impressive sight!
Overall, I thought it had a very futuristic look but I also loved how it blended modern skyscrapers with traditional Taiwanese elements, symbolizing the city’s unique blend of ancient cultural heritage as well its dynamic role in global technology and commerce.
I also thought it’s dramatic backdrop of the lush, rolling hills of the Yangming Mountains to the north and the Central Mountains to the south added to the overall drama!
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 found out the locals that Frankfurt’s Skyline is often called “Mainhattan!” This is due to its dense cluster of high-rises by the Main River. On my Frankfurt visit I was impressed how its skyline showcased its role as Europe’s financial hub with towering skyscrapers such as the Commerzbank Tower.
It also had no less than five structures that beat the 200-meter mark including the 331-meter Europaturm observation tower, and the aesthetically pleasing Messeturm with its 257-meter pyramid peak.
The modernity of Frankfurt’s skyline contrasted sharply with its reconstructed Old Town, Römerberg, where I saw traditional half-timbered houses echo the city’s medieval past. Rebuilt after WWII, I thought this architectural blend symbolized Frankfurt’s resilience, as well as marking its transformation into a major financial and cultural center in Germany!
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 this was such an exotic and intoxicating skyline! To me, it perfectly told the story of the major city in Turkey‘s rich history as a crossroads of civilizations, this is where East meets West!
I found a unique and heady mix of minarets, domes, and high-rises, all set against the shimmering waters of the Bosphorus Strait that connected Europe and Asia – I thought it was mesmerizing!
It showcased iconic landmarks such as the majestic Hagia Sophia, the exquisite Blue Mosque, and the opulent Topkapi Palace as well as contemporary skyscrapers in the areas of Levent and Maslak.
I thought the gung-ho mixing of the ancient and the contemporary structures perfectly represented the city’s centuries-old legacy as an important center of trade, culture, and religion!
My personal highlights…
- Watching the sunset paint Istanbul’s skyline while sipping 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
I thought Seattle‘s skyline was very unique! I thought it wonderfully reflected its transformation from a port city to a gleaming tech hub, with historic landmarks like the Space Needle (which was built for the 1962 World’s Fair) and modern skyscrapers such as the futuristic Amazon Spheres. I thought the backdrop of beautiful Mount Rainier and Elliott Ba was also stunning!
Other stand-out buildings included the towering Columbia Center which offered breathtaking vistas, the historic Smith Tower which added charm with its pyramid-shaped roof.
To me, the whole skyline summed up the city’s innovation, natural beauty, and its legacy as a cultural and economic gateway to the Pacific Northwest!
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 just dazzling! It had an exotic setting along the Chao Phraya River and I loved how it blended traditional Thai architecture with modern skyscrapers – I thought this really represented the Thai capital’s evolution from a small trading post to a bustling metropolis!
Landmarks like the historic Grand Palace and the golden Wat Arun temple stood out against the backdrop of contemporary high-rises such as the Baiyoke Sky Tower and the uniquely pixelated facade of MahaNakhon, perfectly encapsulated the city’s dynamic growth as well as its deep connection 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 really loved the skyline in Panama City in beautiful Panama! Here I found a tropical setting dominated by modern towers such as the imposing F&F Tower.
I noticed that few older traditional buildings had been preserved, which I thought summed up Panama City’s rapid development and strategic position at the Panama Canal. This transformation had established it as a wealthy and vibrant cosmopolitan hub instead!
I personally thought the curved landscape, the waterside and the gleaming towers added even more ambience to the whole skyline and I thought it was a very impressive sight. There were towering skyscrapers everywhere I looked but other buildings which stood out to me included the sail-shaped Trump Ocean Club, and sleek Torre de las Américas.
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 the skyline of the fourth-most populous city in the USA was just amazing! It also beautifully blended architectural diversity and history, from the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and Transamerica Pyramid to the charming Victorian Painted Ladies, I thought the whole cityscape summed up the city’s innovation, culture, and incredible resilience from earthquake-related and social changes!
Other buildings which stood out to me were the towering Salesforce Tower, and historic Coit Tower which sat atop Telegraph Hill.
I thought the setting was incredibly atmospheric, with a backdrop of rolling hills and the expansive waters of San Francisco Bay, framed by the famous Golden Gate Bridge which was often shrouded in the famous fog.
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 the whole cityscape of this major seaside city in Brazil was jaw-dropping! It wasn’t filled with shiny towering business-focused buildings but instead I saw a breathtaking backdrop of lush mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, with iconic landmarks like Christ the Redeemer perched atop Corcovado Mountain and Sugarloaf Mountain rising dramatically over Guanabara Bay.
These sat side-by-side with some modern skyscrapers in Copacabana and Ipanema and colonial architecture in the historic downtown. To me it summed up its evolution from a colony to a world-famous cultural hub!
Other landmark’s that stood out to me included 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
Chicago is known to be the birthplace of the modern skyscraper! I was a huge fan of the city and I loved how its skyline, born from the Great Fire of 1871, blended historic innovation by Louis Sullivan with modern icons like the Willis Tower and John Hancock Center and historic Art Deco. To me it perfectly reflected the city’s resilience, and architectural legacy!
Other buildings that stood out to me were the wave-inspired Aqua Tower, the historic Wrigley Building, and the neo-Gothic Tribune Tower.
It’s setting along the shores of Lake Michigan was also spectacular as the buildings reflected off the water and were also framed by lush 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
I really loved its iconic landmarks which were the imposing Petronas Twin Towers but I also really liked the panoramic KL Tower, the colonial Sultan Abdul Samad Building, the modern Exchange 106, the vibrant Thean Hou Temple and the 421-meter Menara Kuala Lumpur Tower, one of the tallest telecommunications towers in the world!
It’s setting was also very special as the cityscape was set against a backdrop of lush, tropical hills, but overall I thought it was an awesome blend 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 found Toronto’s cityscape to be a true mix of periods and styles! I saw historic landmarks like the Old City Hall which dated back from 1899, sitting side-by-side with modern icons such as the CN Tower and the other towering financial skyscrapers.
To me, it perfectly told the story of its growth from a small colonial town to Canada’s largest city and economic hub!
Other buildings that stood out included the striking Royal Bank Plaza which had gold-tinted windows and the modern skyscraper the First Canadian Place. I thought the setting of the skyline, rising along the shores of Lake Ontario and framed by waterfront parks, islands, and vibrant urban neighborhoods, added wonderfully to the picturesque scene.
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 bedazzled me! It had a striking, futuristic look to it with a heady mix of historic landmarks such as the Victoria Theatre combined with modern buidlings such as the Marina Bay Sands and the futuristic Supertrees (in the Gardens by the Bay). To me it perfectly reflected the city’s fondness for tradition, innovation, and sustainability!
Other buildings that stood out to me included the lotus-inspired ArtScience Museum, and the historic Fullerton Hotel. Overall, I thought the cityscape beautifully illustrated the dramatic transformation from a colonial trading port to a global financial hub.
It was also in awe of it gorgeous setting – the skyline rose dramatically around Marina Bay and was beautifully framed by lush greenery and waterfront promenades.
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! Again, I thought it wonderfully showcased how this Australian powerhouse started as a humble British colony and transformed into a stunning cosmopolitan city.
You know, seeing the mix of historic spots like the Queen Victoria Building right alongside modern icons like the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge really brought to life how Sydney’s transformed. It’s got this vibrant, multicultural vibe and a real connection to the water that just drew me in!
I personally thought its setting was the most striking feature – featuring a stunning waterfront framed by the iconic sails of the Opera House, the elegant Sydney Harbour Bridge, and surrounding lush green parks.
Other buildings which stood out to me were the historic Queen Victoria Building, the luxurious Crown Sydney, the iconic 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
The City of Love’s skyline was instantly recognizable to me! It wasn’t filled with shiny towering skyscrapers but offered something refreshingly different. There were some modern buildings but strict urban planning had beautifully preserved this low-rise skyline, ensuring its historic monuments really stood-out.
The skyline, of course, was highlighted by the iconic Eiffel Tower which was completed in 1889. I also loved seeing the superb Gothic Notre-Dame Cathedral and the modern Louvre Pyramid and these were interspersed with the uniform Haussmannian buildings from the 19th century. To me, it showcased Paris’ evolution from a medieval community to one of the world’s most famous and elegant capitals!
I thought the setting was also dreamy and romantic – the skyline unfolded along the Seine River and was set against a backdrop of low-rise historical buildings and broad, tree-lined boulevards.
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
London’s skyline is ever-evolving! London has always been fiercely proud of its historic buildings, and strict laws have ensured their preservation. Although the city is also progressive and forward-thinking – the jaw-dropping Shard is just one example.
Overall though, I felt like I had witnessed its transformation from a Roman settlement to a bustling modern capital right before my eyes!
I also loved that it has a mix of tall and not-so-tall buildings, offering just enough variety. My other favourite buildings I saw in the cityscape included the Palace of Westminster, Big Ben, the panoramic London Eye and the Houses of Parliament.
There were also some less famous but equally interesting buildings such as Tower 42 (one of London’s first skyscrapers), the futuristic Gherkin, and the modern Pinnacle.
I also found its setting to be magnificent and the skyline stretched dramatically along the sprawling Thames River.
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 think this is one most eye-catching skylines on the planet! China’s largest city and a global financial hub featured the futuristic Oriental Pearl Tower and Lujiazui’s towering skyscrapers which I thought contrasted superbly with the historic Bund’s neoclassical and Art Deco buildings.
Its rapid transformation from being a colonial trading post to a dynamic global financial powerhouse was complete…and I was in awe!
While not all of the buildings were tall, I found their varied designs and colors amazing. The spiraling Shanghai Tower and the historic waterfront district of the Bund stood out to me, showcasing a mix of modern and colonial architecture.
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 loved Tokyo and it’s spellbinding skyline! The Japanese capital is another city that takes great pride in and is very protective of its heritage, while also being highly progressive and forward-thinking at the same time!
I thought this was perfectly reflected in its skyline which had a show-stopping blend of both traditional and innovative buildings which to me, told the story of Japan’s post-war recovery, rapid modernization, and cultural values.
I saw modern landmarks such as the towering Tokyo Skytree, the iconic red Tokyo Tower, and striking structures like the Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower, alongside historic temples and colorful, traditional low-rise neighborhoods.
The setting was truly incredible – the sprawling urban landscape was dramatically framed by beautiful Mount Fuji in the distance and was dotted with towering skyscrapers, historic temples, and a mesmerizing sea of flashing neon lights – it took my breath away!
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
This skyline completely wowed me! In fact I lived in Hong Kong for many years and I never got fed up with seeing it, especially when it was lit up at night!
The towering skyscrapers, built with Feng Shui principles in mind, such as the International Commerce Centre, the iconic Two IFC, and the imposing Bank of China Tower, to me reflected its modernity and economic power. Meanwhile, the well-preserved colonial-era buildings and traditional temples were a nod to its rich cultural heritage and deep respect for traditional values.
The setting made it all very dramatic – it was set along the shores of Victoria Harbour, with towering skyscrapers rising against a backdrop of green mountains and a bustling waterfront occasionally adorned with a highly photogenic junk boat (see above)!
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
The cityscape was dominated by world-famous structures such as the Empire State Building and One World Trade Center which symbolized resilience and renewal following the tragic events of 9/11.
I discovered a heady mix of Art Deco masterpieces, sleek modern towers, and the historic spires of the Chrysler Building. Other standout buildings included the majestic Chrysler Building and the imposing Statue of Liberty.
The setting was just sublime – it was set across Manhattan, bordered by the Hudson and East Rivers, with its towering skyscrapers rising dramatically against the backdrop of buzzing streets and the surrounding 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
So the skyline of this glitzy powerhouse is my Number 1! It has risen quickly through the ranks, rapidly transforming over the last decade into one of the most visually striking cityscapes in the world!
I discovered a stunning array of futuristic skyscrapers, including the world-famous Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Fuelled by oil wealth since its discovery in the 1960s, this ‘black gold’ transformed the city from a modest trading port into a glamorous global metropolis.
Set against the backdrop of the Arabian Gulf, Dubai’s skyline features an impressive array of futuristic skyscrapers rising from the desert.
Other standout buildings included the ultra-luxurious, sail-shaped Burj Al Arab and the Cayan Tower with its twisting, spiral-like structure. It was evident to me that the city took great pride in both its economic prowess and its Islamic cultural heritage.
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
