When global travelers rank the world’s best international airports, mega-hubs in Asia and the Middle East often dominate. In July 2025, however, Helsinki Airport broke through – securing 7th place in Travel + Leisure’s prestigious World’s Best Awards. It was the only European airport in the top 10, honored alongside giants like Istanbul, Singapore, and Doha.
As a European, I am truly happy to see an airport from the old continent in the top. Surprised a bit that it is not one of the more famous airports in Europe, but still happy. My husband was at Helsinki Airport in the past and he had a nice experience.
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2025 Airport Rankings: The Global Elite
According to Travel + Leisure‘s latest survey of nearly 180,000 readers, the top three airports were:
- Istanbul Airport (98.57 score)
- Singapore Changi Airport
- Hamad International Airport (Doha)
The full top 10 included Zayed International (Abu Dhabi), Dubai International, Hong Kong International, Helsinki-Vantaa, Haneda (Tokyo), Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (Mumbai), and Incheon International.
This ranking demonstrates how Asia and the Middle East continue to dominate global aviation, while Helsinki’s appearance is a major win for Europe. I am curious to see how the top will look next year!
1. Europe’s Unique Representative
Helsinki is the only European airport to crack the top-10 list, standing apart from the region’s usual mega-hubs. Helsinki-Vantaa Airport serves as Finnair’s main hub and a critical transit point between Europe and Asia. Its appearance in this elite list reinforces Finland’s rising status in the travel world.
2. Streamlined Passenger Experience
A decade-long renovation, culminating in the 2022 terminal unification, centralized check-in, security, and baggage, simplifying passenger flow.
“Helsinki Airport has received several awards for its customer experience. For many international passengers, the airport is their first contact with Finland and the Finnish character, and we are so happy that we have managed to stay in people’s minds. I would like to thank the entire airport community for this recognition – the success belongs to all of us,” says Airport Director Ulla Serlenius in a press release.
3. Innovative Amenities That Travelers Love
Let’s face it: an airport is more than a transit place. It is sometimes a place where you spend hours and hours – and there are plenty of things to do while at…