View from the Top: Experience the World's Tallest Buildings

Curious about the world's tallest buildings? These architectural marvels not only showcase incredible feats of engineering but also offer breathtaking views and unique experiences for visitors. 

As you prepare to travel, downloading an eSIM app will make it easier than ever to stay in touch while away. Additionally, having a travel eSIM makes it easy to look up weather forecasts, check opening and closing times, and navigate the cities where these soaring structures are located.

Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or a travel buff, these towering structures have something to offer. Here's a guide to ten of the world's tallest buildings and tips on how to make the most of your visit.

1. Burj Khalifa

• Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
• Height: 828 meters (2,717 feet)
• Best Time to Visit: November to March for cooler weather. 

Visitor Tips:

Since this is the tallest building in the world, it’s one of the most popular attractions to visit in Dubai. If you’re including the Burj Khalifa in your itinerary, make sure to plan ahead: research visiting hours and days to find the best times to avoid crowds and long lines. If possible, purchase tickets online in advance to avoid long wait times. Consider taking a tour that offers insights into the building’s history and architecture!

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Though visiting during the day will allow you to see all of your surroundings, consider visiting during sunset or at night for stunning views. There may be special events or maintenance closures, so check the official website when planning your trip. 

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When you visit, dress comfortably and pack lightly; this will allow for a smooth security experience upon entry. 

2. Shanghai Tower

• Location: Shanghai, China
• Height: 632 meters (2,073 feet)
• Best Time to Visit: September to November for pleasant weather.

Visitor Tips:

As the second tallest building in the world, this is a major attraction for those visiting Shanghai. If you can, purchase tickets ahead of time to skip the long waiting lines. Don’t forget to research the updated opening and closing times, too. 

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Shanghai is notorious for being unpredictable (thanks largely to the higher levels of smog). Though you may not be able to alter your tickets (if you purchased them in advance) going in with the right mindset that the views may be less than ideal will help manage your expectations. 

If your schedule allows, consider visiting the tower's observation deck at night for magical nighttime views.

3. Abraj Al-Bait Clock Tower

• Location: Mecca, Saudi Arabia
• Height: 601 meters (1,971 feet)
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round, though Hajj season (Islamic pilgrimage) is the busiest. 

Visitor Tips:

The Abraj Al-Bait Clock Tower is unique in that it’s one of the few on this list that has a massive clock adorning its zenith. In addition to its time-telling apparatus, it’s a government-owned complex of seven skyscraper hotels in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. These towers are a part of the King Abdulaziz Endowment Project.

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Because of its location in Mecca, pilgrimage season is the busiest. If you plan to be there during this time, prepare yourself for large crowds and long waits. Unlike some of the other locations on this list, make sure to adhere to local dress codes and customs. 

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The nature of this building (a hotel complex) means that it’s sometimes unavailable due to special events. Additionally, religious observances may result in the closure of the clock tower to visitors. Look up opening and closing times and days while planning your trip. Buy an eSIM online before you go and be able to double-check opening and closing times during your trip. 

4. Ping An Finance Centre

• Location: Shenzhen, China
• Height: 599 meters (1,965 feet)
• Best Time to Visit: October to December for a comfortable climate.

Visitor Tips:

This is the second-tallest building in China (see Shanghai Tower above) and was built in 2017. Similar to the tower in Shangai, check the weather forecast for your planned visitation. Smog could put a damper on the experience. As you prepare to visit, wear comfortable shoes and clothing since the visit will include a fair amount of walking. 

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Visiting at night or during sunset offers unique and breathtaking views of the Shenzhen area. Look up times and ticket availability for these ahead of time! Visitors also have the opportunity to enjoy an art exhibit on the 116 SkyDeck. 

5. Lotte World Tower

• Location: Seoul, South Korea
• Height: 555 meters (1,819 feet)
• Best Time to Visit: April to June or September to November for mild weather. 

Visitor Tips:

Lotte World Tower is the first tower in South Korea that’s over 100 stories tall. While visitors are able to see the Lotte World Tower on their own, they’re encouraged to visit as part of a guided tour. Learn about the architecture and history of the building while simultaneously enjoying the spectacular views. Look for tickets online in advance and research opening and closing times and dates to ensure you don’t miss out while in Seoul. 

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As part of your visit, don’t miss out on the dining options within the tower. And, for those looking for even more fun once they’re back on the ground, they can check out Lotte World, which sits in the shadow of the tower. 

6. One World Trade Center

• Location: New York City, USA
• Height: 541 meters (1,776 feet)
• Best Time to Visit: April to June or September to November for mild weather and less crowds. 

Visitor Tips:

Rising from the ashes of the Twin Towers that fell on 9/11, One World Trade Center is a monolith that represents freedom and overcoming adversity. Security is stringent here, so research approved items before you visit. All visitors are required to book tickets in advance for specific time slots. This is to manage crowd levels and maintain security protocols. Timed entry slots go well into the evening, allowing for spectacular views of New York City after dark. 

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In addition to the tower itself, visitors can see the nearby 9/11 Memorial & Museum, which showcases media, narratives and items from one of the most tragic days in U.S. history. 

7. Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre

• Location: Guangzhou, China
• Height: 530 meters (1,739 feet)
• Best Time to Visit: October to December for pleasant weather.

Visitor Tips:

Also known as the “East Tower” this mixed-use skyscraper is the third tallest in China. Before you go, research the opening and closing times, and consider purchasing a ticket in advance. Visiting in the late afternoon provides delightful sunset views of the surrounding area. 

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Though the Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre is a major attraction in and of itself, there are plenty of other things to do in the area, resulting in a full day of sightseeing. When planning your trip, ensure you and your travel companions have eSIM cards; this will allow you to easily navigate from stop to stop and find the best places to eat along the way!

8. Tianjin CTF Finance Centre

• Location: Tianjin, China
• Height: 530 meters (1,739 feet)
• Best Time to Visit: September to November when its cooler and dry.

Visitor Tips:

The Tianjin CTF Finance Center is the tallest building in the world with fewer than 100 floors. Much like visiting the other tall towers in China, check the weather forecast for your visit. Smog and cloudy weather may prevent you from getting the best views. To limit the chance of this happening consider visiting during the fall, which offers the best conditions for a clear view from the top.

9. Taipei 101

• Location: Taipei, Taiwan
• Height: 508 meters (1,667 feet)
• Best Time to Visit: October to April for cooler weather and less humidity. 

Visitor Tips:

Formerly known as the “Taipei World Finance Center,” this building was the world’s first skyscraper to exceed the height of half a kilometer upon its completion. In addition to great views from the top, visitors can expect to eat well during their visit. Taipei 101 has an excellent food court that is worth exploring. When planning your trip, make sure to look up opening and closing times before heading to the foot of this monolith. (The best eSIM app will allow you to do this from anywhere!) If possible, visit during New Year's Eve for the famous fireworks display. It’ll be one of the most memorable ways to ring in a new year! 

10. International Commerce Centre (ICC)

• Location: Hong Kong, China
• Height: 484 meters (1,588 feet)
• Best Time to Visit: October to December for pleasant weather.

Visitor Tips:

Like all of its predecessors on this list, the best views from the top of the International Commerce Centre (ICC) come with the best weather. If possible, book your tickets for a day when the weather is likely to be clear. Hong Kong Bay is one of the most scenic skylines in the world; the views from the top of this skyscraper are worth it! Book your tickets in advance to guarantee your visit and to avoid long wait times. 

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The Sky100 observation deck offers a 360-degree view of Hong Kong. If you can, visit during the nightly light show for a unique perspective of the show. 

Conclusion

Exploring the world's tallest buildings is an adventure that offers stunning views, interesting history, and unforgettable experiences. Remember to research each building's visiting hours, book your tickets in advance to save time, and dress comfortably for a smooth experience. 

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Enhance your visit by taking guided tours and checking for special events. And don’t forget to buy eSIM cards before you go so you’re ready to stay connected whether your feet are on the ground or your head is in the clouds. 

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Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a frequent traveler, or someone looking to explore the world's marvels, these skyscrapers are worth the visit.