Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport’s Terminal 3 in China has been recognised by the Prix Versailles as one of the “World’s Most Beautiful Airports.” This nomination acknowledges its architectural design, cultural influences and integration of natural elements throughout the passenger experience.
The terminal, located in Guangzhou, was selected for combining contemporary airport infrastructure with references to the city’s history, landscape and Lingnan cultural heritage.
Terminal 3
Developed by Artelia in collaboration with the Guangdong Architectural Design and Research Institute (GDAD), Terminal 3 was designed to create a welcoming gateway to the Greater Bay Area while reflecting Guangzhou’s identity as the “City of Flowers.”
The architectural concept draws on themes from Lingnan culture, using natural forms to organise the terminal’s expansive interior. Stylised interpretations of clouds, water and flowers shape the building’s layout, creating fluid spaces and intuitive passenger routes that guide travellers through the terminal.
Large, light-filled interiors and sweeping organic curves reinforce these natural references while supporting clear wayfinding across the terminal.
The design also reflects Guangzhou’s historic role as a centre of trade along the Maritime Silk Road, with the architecture intended to evoke movement, exchange and openness within the airport environment.
A sequence of terraces, atriums and indoor gardens has been incorporated throughout the terminal, bringing natural elements into passenger spaces. The project also includes what is described as the highest open-air public observation deck at a Chinese airport, providing views across the airfield while creating an additional public destination within the terminal.
The combination of contemporary architecture, landscaped public spaces and references to the region’s cultural history contributed to Terminal 3’s selection by the Prix Versailles.
Other airports included on the 2026 Prix Versailles list are Terminal 2 at Guwahati International Airport in India, Terminal 3 at Frankfurt Airport in Germany, Pittsburgh International Airport in the US, Terminal 1 at Navi Mumbai International Airport in India, Techo International Airport in Cambodia and Terminal 1 at San Diego International Airport in the US.
