12 Memorable Skylines & Iconic Buildings Around the World
Some places are recognisable from a single silhouette. A harbour framed by sweeping white sails, a cathedral rising above terracotta rooftops, or skyscrapers glowing against the evening sky.
These memorable skylines around the world offer plenty of inspiration for your next holiday. Enjoy the view from the waterfront, step inside a remarkable building, or book an experience that brings the city into focus.
Memorable Skylines & Remarkable Buildings
New York — Manhattan Skyline
Manhattan’s towers create an unmistakable skyline, from waterfront to rooftops.
Dubai — Burj Khalifa
Dubai’s soaring Burj Khalifa rises above a dramatic modern skyline.
Singapore — Marina Bay
Marina Bay pairs striking architecture with shimmering reflections after sunset.
Sydney — Opera House & Harbour Bridge
Sydney’s Opera House and Harbour Bridge frame unforgettable waterfront views.
Paris — Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower rises above rooftops, boulevards and winding waterways.
London — The Shard & City Skyline
Historic landmarks and modern towers frame London’s distinctive Thames skyline.
Kuala Lumpur — Petronas Twin Towers
The Petronas Twin Towers bring distinctive symmetry to Malaysia’s capital.
Barcelona — Sagrada Família
Gaudí’s intricate basilica brings extraordinary shapes to Barcelona’s city streets.
Istanbul — Domes, Minarets & Waterfront Views
Domes and minarets shape Istanbul’s skyline above its busy waterways.
Florence — The Duomo
Florence’s cathedral dome rises above terracotta rooftops and Renaissance streets.
Hong Kong — Victoria Harbour
Victoria Harbour frames densely packed towers, glowing beautifully after dark.
Chicago — Riverfront Architecture
Chicago’s river reveals bold architecture beneath a skyline of skyscrapers.
Remembering the Twin Towers
For many people, New York’s skyline will always bring to mind the original World Trade Center Twin Towers.
Their absence is part of the city’s history, but remembering them also means remembering the people whose lives were lost and those whose lives changed forever.
Today, two reflecting pools occupy the footprints of the towers at the 9/11 Memorial. The memorial honours those killed in the September 11, 2001 attacks and the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. It is a place to pause, reflect and pay respects.
The outdoor memorial is free to enter. The adjoining museum requires a separate ticket and explores the events, personal stories and lasting impact of the attacks.
Which skyline would you like to see?
Whether you prefer historic rooftops, harbour views or modern towers, these memorable skylines offer inspiration for your next city break.
Use the experience buttons to explore tickets and tours, and the guides to get to know each destination.