Discover the world’s 10 most beautiful airport landings, ranked through a global eye-tracking study by travel insights platform All Clear. From Australia to Nepal, explore the most breathtaking runways that make every landing feel unforgettable.

There are few travel moments more unforgettable than those final minutes before touchdown—when your airplane dips beneath the clouds and a jaw-dropping panorama opens beneath you. Whether it’s glittering oceans, majestic mountains or iconic skylines, some runways turn the simple act of landing into a once-in-a-lifetime experience. To uncover which of these dramatic descents are truly the most captivating, travel insights platform All Clear analysed 32 scenic airports around the world using a fascinating global eye-tracking study. One hundred participants were shown images of the world’s most scenic runways, while researchers measured two things: how fast each landing grabbed their attention, and how long the view held their gaze. Using a weighted formula that combined both metrics, the world’s 10 most beautiful airport landings have finally been revealed. So buckle up and get ready to discover the runways that will make you fall in love with flying all over again.

1. Lord Howe Island Airport, Australia — The Most Beautiful Landing on Earth

Tucked inside a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lord Howe Island Airport claims the top spot with an eye-catching score of 85/100. With only 400 visitors allowed at a time and access possible solely by air, landing here feels like entering a protected paradise. Participants spent longer gazing at this image than any other—2.64 seconds on average—mesmerised by its turquoise waters, emerald peaks and serene isolation.

2. Queenstown Airport, New Zealand — A Dramatic Descent

With a score of 79/100, Queenstown delivers one of the world’s most spectacular approaches. Aircraft must navigate a steep, narrow descent between jagged alpine ranges, a manoeuvre so challenging that pilots need special training. For passengers, the payoff is enormous: snow-dusted mountains, glacial rivers and the iconic Lake Wakatipu shimmering below.

3. Madeira Airport, Portugal — Beauty Framed by Cliffs

Madeira’s approach is legendary among aviation lovers. Set against rugged sea cliffs, emerald mountains and the deep blue Atlantic, it’s no surprise this runway recorded one of the longest gaze times (2.53 seconds) in the entire study. The descent is thrilling, the views are cinematic, and the landing feels like gliding into an island of pure adventure.

4. Pitkin County Airport, USA — A Rocky Mountain Welcome

Also tying for the third spot with a score of 77/100, Aspen’s Pitkin County Airport offers a winter wonderland view that few destinations can match. Surrounded by soaring peaks, the airport has just one approach and one departure route, making every landing a dramatic slide between snow-capped giants.

5. Rio de Janeiro–Santos Dumont Airport, Brazil — The Fastest Attention-Grabber

Capturing attention in just 0.69 seconds, this Rio runway is the most instantly eye-catching in the entire study. As you descend, you’ll see Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, Copacabana, Ipanema and the glistening Guanabara Bay. It’s impossible not to feel the pulse of Brazil’s vibrant spirit even before you land.

5. London City Airport, United Kingdom — A Skyline Lover’s Dream

Scoring 76/100, London City Airport delivers a postcard-perfect view of the British capital. As your plane glides low over the River Thames, you’ll spot The Shard, the O2 Arena, Canary Wharf, Tower Bridge and the London Eye—all from one jaw-dropping angle. It’s one of the most visually rich urban landings in Europe.

7. Innsbruck Airport, Austria — Mountains in Every Direction

Nestled between the snow-draped Austrian Alps, Innsbruck’s runway is a beauty in every season. In summer, golden sunsets brighten the valleys and villages; in winter, the city becomes a snowy wonderland. It’s the kind of approach that feels like flying into a fairytale.

8. Paro Airport, Bhutan — A Himalayan Gem

With an eye-catching score of 72/100, Paro is widely considered one of the world’s most scenic—and most challenging—airport approaches. Only a handful of trained pilots can land here due to the mountainous terrain. The reward? Spellbinding Himalayan peaks and a peaceful Buddhist valley waiting below.

9. Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport, Caribbean Netherlands — The World’s Shortest Runway

Measuring just 400 metres, this cliff-edge runway on Saba Island is as thrilling as it is beautiful. Approaching planes skim above electric-blue Caribbean waters, rugged cliffs and lush green hills. It’s equal parts heart-pounding and breathtaking.

10. Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, USA — Touching Down Over the Ocean

Hawaii’s main airport offers an unforgettable ocean-first landing. The final descent takes you over endless Pacific waters—so close you feel like you’re about to land on the sea. It’s a dreamy introduction to the islands’ tropical charm.

10. Lukla Airport, Nepal — Gateway to Everest

Sharing the 10th spot with a score of 68/100, Lukla Airport is world-famous for its tiny runway and its position among the planet’s highest peaks. For adventurers flying in en route to Everest Base Camp, the first glimpse of Everest, Lhotse and Nuptse makes the heart race.

The holidays are all about food, friends and family. But if you’re hitting the road or hopping on a long flight, your back may not be celebrating.

“Traveling puts your body in positions it wasn’t designed for — long periods of sitting still with awkward posture,” says Mark Hornyak, MD, spine surgeon with Hartford HealthCare’s Ayer Neuroscience Institute. “That combination can really aggravate your neck and back if you’re not careful.”

Whether you’re flying across the country or driving to Grandma’s, try these tips to avoid back pain while traveling and keep your spine happy through the holidays.

1. Pack light

We’ve all been there – packing six outfits for each day of your trip, just to be safe. But dragging overstuffed luggage through airports is a recipe for disaster.

“Use rolling suitcases when you can, distribute weight evenly between bags and avoid carrying anything too heavy on just one side,” says Dr. Hornyak. “If you do need to lift, bend at your knees, not your waist.”

Planning ahead, like shipping gifts directly instead of cramming them into your suitcase, can do wonders for your spine – not to mention your headache.

2. Find supportive seating

Cars and planes are notoriously bad for your back, but bringing your own pillow can be a game changer.

“Bring a small pillow, travel cushion or even just a rolled-up sweater to support your lower back,” Dr. Hornyak suggests. “Always try to maintain your spine’s natural curve.”

Adjust your seat angle too — a slightly reclined position often feels better for long rides than sitting upright.

3. Don’t forget to stretchv

Think of travel like a workout for your spine — it needs a warm-up and cool-down. Skipping those steps makes it easier for stiffness to settle in.

“Take a few minutes to stretch your hamstrings, hips and back before you go, and again when you arrive,” says Dr. Hornyak. “These large muscle groups tend to tighten up when you’re sitting for a long time.”

Gentle yoga poses, like child’s pose or a seated twist, can help release tension.

4. Take movement breaks

Sitting for hours is one of the worst things for your back.

“On long drives, stop every hour or two to get out, walk around and stretch. On planes, stand in the aisle and move around when it’s safe,” Dr. Hornyak suggests.

If getting up isn’t possible, try seated exercises: roll your shoulders, flex and point your feet, or rotate your ankles to keep blood flowing. This can help prevent stiffness, reduce back pain while traveling, and make the rest of your journey more comfortable.

5. Watch your posture

Slouching might feel good, but it adds strain on your lower back and neck. Screens make this even worse – especially if you’re hunched over your phone to watch Netflix on a flight.

“Keep your shoulders back, feet flat and avoid craning your neck forward,” says Dr. Hornyak. “If you’re using a screen, hold it at eye level instead of looking down.”

Even making small adjustments — like shifting positions every so often — is one of the simplest ways to prevent back pain while traveling.

6. Stay hydrated

Water might be the last thing you think to pack for a long trip, but proper hydration makes a big difference.

“Dehydration can stiffen muscles and joints, making back pain worse,” Dr. Hornyak notes. “It also increases your risk of blood clots on long flights.”

Pack a refillable water bottle, and don’t rely on coffee or soda for hydration.

7. Get moving

Collapsing on the couch as soon as you arrive might be tempting — but it won’t help your spine.

“Stretch, walk around or do some light movement before you settle in,” says Dr. Hornyak. “Your body needs to shake off the stiffness from hours of sitting.”

Even five to ten minutes of activity can help reset your muscles and prevent soreness from lingering into the next day.

4 travel hacks for a happier spine

The holidays are stressful enough without back pain tagging along. Follow these easy steps to make your trip a little more comfortable.

1. Pack strategically. Instead of one heavy bag, split your belongings into two smaller, lighter ones.
2. Change your posture often. Don’t lock into one position — shift your weight, adjust your seat angle, and avoid crossing your legs for too long.
3. Choose the right snacks. Salty, processed snacks can lead to bloating and inflammation, which may make back pain worse. Bring fruit, nuts, or cut veggies instead.
4. Unwind when you land. A gentle walk or a few yoga stretches can help your spine recover from hours of sitting.

With a little planning, your trip can leave you with happy memories instead of an aching back.

Remember, small changes — like better posture, regular movement and light packing — go a long way to prevent back pain while traveling this holiday season.

Which country has the most islands in the world? Sweden leads with over 221,800 islands. Keep reading more about the largest islands in Sweden and the largest island on Earth.

Country With the most islands: Sweden has the most islands in the world, with more than 221,800 islands recorded. This is the highest number for any country on Earth. Most of these islands are uninhabited, but they shape Sweden’s coastline, tourism economy, and natural environment.

Country With Most Islands in the World

Sweden has 221,800+ islands, confirmed through detailed national mapping surveys. These include rocky islets, forest-covered islands, and long coastal chains. Sweden’s island distribution stretches from the Gulf of Bothnia to the Baltic Sea. The country’s archipelagos support fishing, transport routes, conservation zones, and recreational boating.

Why Does Sweden Have So Many Islands?

The islands formed due to glacial retreat at the end of the Ice Age. As glaciers melted, they carved the land into thousands of small fragments. Sweden’s long, indented coastline created natural archipelagos. Shallow coastal waters allowed even tiny islets to be counted. This geological history makes Sweden distinct in global island geography.

Stockholm Archipelago

The Stockholm Archipelago contains around 30,000 islands and is one of Europe’s largest archipelagos. The west coast features the Gothenburg Archipelago, known for fishing communities and marine reserves. Northern regions have rugged island clusters shaped by colder climates. These archipelagos are key travel destinations, wildlife habitats, and cultural zones.

Countries With High Island Counts

Finland ranks second with over 188,000 islands across coastal and lake regions. Norway has thousands of fjord islands created by dramatic glacial erosion. Canada features Arctic islands, lake islands, and large landmasses such as Baffin Island. These nations share similar cold-region glacial landscapes that produce extensive island systems.

Largest Islands in Sweden

Gotland is Sweden’s largest island, known for limestone formations, medieval sites, and agriculture. Öland comes next, linked to the mainland by a bridge and known for grasslands and UNESCO sites. Orust is another major island, supporting fishing industries and small towns. These islands have permanent populations and strong regional economies.

Interesting Facts About Islands

1. Sweden Has the Highest Island Count

Sweden’s 221,800+ islands make it the global leader. Data comes from precise geographic surveys that map even tiny landforms. These islands form natural barriers, tourist spots, and protected marine areas.

2. Most Swedish Islands Are Uninhabited

Fewer than 1,000 islands have residents. The rest remain natural landscapes with forests, rocks, and wildlife. This creates vast untouched coastlines that attract eco-tourism and research.

3. Finland Follows Closely in Island Numbers

Finland has more than 188,000 islands spread across lakes, rivers, and coastal waters. This makes it the second-highest country globally. Many islands lie in the Finnish Lakeland, a region with thousands of waterbodies.

4. Glaciers Created Most Northern Hemisphere Islands

Cold-region islands in Sweden, Finland, Norway, and Canada formed due to glacial erosion. This process shaped coastlines into narrow channels, bays, and island clusters. These glacial landscapes remain stable but constantly change with rising sea levels.

5. Largest Island on Earth

Greenland is the world’s largest island. It is surrounded by the Arctic and Atlantic Oceans. Its ice sheet influences global climate systems, ocean currents, and sea-level patterns. Greenland is larger than most countries and remains sparsely populated.

Sweden has the most islands in the world, with more than 221,800 islands identified. These islands developed through glacial processes, forming one of the world’s richest archipelago systems. Keep reading for more topics like this.

Discover the world’s most beautiful heritage towns built along rivers — from Hoi An and Porto to Varanasi and Strasbourg. Explore lantern-lit streets, canals, temples, and timeless riverside charm.

There’s a certain spell that river towns cast — a soft, unhurried charm that makes you slow down and look closer. Something about the way water glints against old stone bridges, the way history lingers in the mist at sunrise, and the way life clusters around the banks makes these places feel timeless. Across continents, some heritage towns have perfected this magic. They shimmer with lanterns at dusk, echo with centuries of trade and tradition, and carry stories along their currents. These are the riverside towns where heritage isn’t simply preserved — it lives, breathes, and flows.

1. Varanasi, India — Where the Ganges Becomes a Stage of Life

Few river towns feel as alive as Varanasi. Along the Ganges, life unfolds in rituals: bells ringing, lamps drifting on the water, chants filling the air. The ghats are an eternal theatre where centuries of devotion, culture, and human stories converge — raw, powerful, and unforgettable.

2. Hoi An, Vietnam — Lanterns, River Breezes & Timeless Romance

Every evening, the Thu Bon River turns Hoi An into a glowing dreamscape. Lantern-lit boats glide past ochre shopfronts, Japanese bridges cast soft silhouettes, and the air fills with old-world charm. Once a bustling port between the 15th and 19th centuries, this UNESCO town wears its riverside legacy with quiet pride — and irresistible beauty.

3. Porto, Portugal — Wine-Lined Shores of the Douro

Porto rises steeply from the Douro in a wash of terracotta rooftops and sunlit tiles. The iconic Dom Luís I Bridge arcs gracefully above riverside wine cellars and bustling quays, where port wine, street music, and gentle Atlantic breezes mingle. It’s a city that moves at its own soulful rhythm.

4. Český Krumlov, Czech Republic — A Fairytale in the Vltava’s Embrace

Curving almost completely around the medieval old town, the Vltava River is Český Krumlov’s best storyteller. With its 13th-century castle, frescoed facades, and cobblestone lanes, the UNESCO town looks like it tumbled out of a painter’s imagination — red roofs reflected in a perfect watery loop.

5. Fenghuang, China — Ancient Beauty on the Tuojiang River

Fenghuang is China at its most cinematic. Stilted wooden houses lean over jade-green waters, lanterns shimmer at dusk, and stone bridges wind through a maze of ancient streets. Rooted deeply in Miao culture, this riverside town feels suspended between dynasties, its stories drifting softly along the Tuojiang.

6. Luang Prabang, Laos — Temples Wrapped in Mekong Mist

At the meeting point of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers sits Luang Prabang, a heritage town that glows with spiritual serenity. Saffron-robed monks, French-colonial villas, and golden temples create a landscape so beautifully preserved that UNESCO calls it a model of cultural fusion. The rivers here don’t just frame the town — they define its calm, dreamy rhythm.

7. Bath, England — Classical Elegance Beside the Avon

Bath has always been a city of grace. Honey-coloured Georgian terraces line the hillside, Roman baths whisper ancient tales, and the River Avon curves through it all with quiet composure. A UNESCO city famed for its architecture, Bath’s riverside walks feel like stepping into a beautifully written novel.

8. Uji, Japan — Matcha Trails and Riverside Calm

Best known for its matcha and its gentle beauty, Uji sits gracefully along the river that shares its name. Tea houses, vermilion bridges, and the exquisite Byodoin Temple (a UNESCO site) create a town steeped in history and stillness. In cherry blossom season, Uji feels like a pastel-coloured poem.

9. Strasbourg, France — Timbered Fairytales Along the Ill

Strasbourg’s Petite France neighbourhood is almost impossibly charming — half-timbered houses, flower-filled windows, and canals that glimmer under Alsatian sunlight. The River Ill winds through the UNESCO-designated Grande-Île, creating a storybook setting where French elegance meets German craftsmanship in perfect harmony.