Heading to the airport can feel a bit like going to the dentist—you’d rather not be there, and you’re counting down the minutes until it’s over. That’s why flight delays can feel like a total disaster, especially when you’re stuck in terminals that are anything but top airports, with nothing but your phone and a slowly dying charger.
Even a short holdup can leave you feeling trapped somewhere you’d rather not be, and, while the last chapters of your holiday read or a few games of chess on your phone might help to pass the minutes, the hours will creep by slower than you ever thought possible.
But what if we told you that some top airports are so well-designed, you’d hope for a delay just to enjoy them longer? It may seem too good to be true, but airport design and entertainment options are on the rise.
Here are three top airports around the world where a flight delay isn’t just tolerable—it’s a treat.

# 1 – Changi Airport, Singapore
Skytrax has rated Changi Airport in Singapore as the best airport in the world 13 consecutive times, and for good reason. Far from simply loading passengers onto planes, Changi Airport is like the world’s best luxury resort, complete with its own swimming pool and jacuzzi, spas, art exhibitions, and cinema.
Best of all has to be Jewel Changi, a 10-story shopping centre with multiple indoor gardens and the iconic Rain Vortex. At an astounding 131 feet (40 metres) high, the vortex is the world’s largest indoor waterfall, and it’s so mesmerising that there’s every risk you’ll miss your flight when it does finally arrive!
Changi Airport – Singapore
Ranked the best airport in the world (13 years in a row, according to Skytrax!), Changi Airport is in a league of its own. It’s more luxury resort than airport, featuring:
- A rooftop swimming pool and jacuzzi
- Free movie theaters
- Art exhibitions
- Indoor gardens
- World-class spas
The real showstopper? Jewel Changi, a 10-story complex with the world’s largest indoor waterfall—the 40-meter Rain Vortex. You might be so entranced, you’ll forget to check your gate!
# 2 – Hong Kong International Airport, Hong Kong
Enioy the most cultured delay of your travel life at Hong Kong International Airport, where you can enjoy the Aviation Discovery Centre at Terminal 2, or the impressive sculptural journey on Terminal 1.
Or, perhaps you prefer to kick back and de-stress with an onsite IMAX theatre and 9-hole golf course? There’s even a sky Deck that ensures that, even if your flight isn’t taking off yet, you can watch planes leaving and arriving every minute.
Hong Kong International Airport – Hong Kong
Hong Kong International Airport turns delays into an adventure.
- Explore the Aviation Discovery Centre
- Impressive sculptures are scattered through Terminal 1
- Onsite IMAX theatre
- 9-hole golf course
- SkyDeck viewing area
Whether you’re in the mood for entertainment, relaxation, or aviation-inspired experiences, Hong Kong International Airport turns every delay into a destination of its own.
# 3 – Munich Airport, Germany
There are multiple joys to be found during a visit to Munich in Germany. This city offers a lot more than just Oktoberfest. Munich Airport in Germany might not be as impressive as larger options like Changi but when you consider what’s on offer here, you might not be so gutted about your flight delay.
Munich airport provides a real taste of German life, right from inside its terminals. As well as enjoying minigolf and impressive children’s play areas, guests to Munich airport have access to the world’s first airport brew pub for travellers who need something a little stronger than a coffee. During the right season, there’s even an authentic German winter market, complete with its very own ice skating rink!
Munich Airport – Germany
Munich Airport may not have a waterfall, but it offers a true taste of German life without leaving the terminal. Highlights include:
- Mini-golf course
- Children’s play areas
- The world’s first airport brewpub, Airbräu
- Seasonal winter market with an ice rink and festive treats
It’s a fun, relaxed space that captures the charm of Munich and turns a delay into a mini cultural layover.
Choose Top Airports to Elevate Your Journey
Flight delays are usually dreaded—but if you’re in one of these top-tier airports, they might just become a highlight of your journey. So next time you travel through Singapore, Hong Kong, or Munich, cross your fingers for a little extra layover time.

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