Towers shape the character of cities not only through their height but also through the stories they tell. Each one leaves a mark on the history, culture, and innovative spirit of its city, becoming a symbol in its own right.
Among these impressive structures, there are significant examples from Turkey that you’ll want to explore firsthand. The first stop in our series of must-see towers is Emaar SkyView, which brings a fresh breath to Istanbul’s modern skyline.
Emaar SkyView, Turkey.
Emaar SkyView is a magnificent tower located in the Üsküdar district of Istanbul, offering a new dimension to the city’s skyline. Standing at 210 meters tall, this structure serves as one of the main attractions of Emaar Square Mall, showcasing Istanbul’s history, culture, and unique beauty to visitors.
Overlooking the jewel of the Sea of Marmara, the elegance of the Bosphorus, and the intricate details of Istanbul’s seven hills, Emaar SkyView provides an unparalleled observation experience for both local and foreign visitors. Whether it’s the mesmerizing moments of dawn with the first light of day or the city glowing under the hues of sunset, views from Emaar SkyView transform into a spectacle.
Not just an observation tower, this structure is part of one of Istanbul’s most innovative communities, offering visitors a modern and luxurious experience. Easily accessible from Emaar Square Mall, Emaar SkyView is conveniently located for quick access after shopping and social events.
Visitors can step out onto the terrace at the top of Emaar SkyView, which presents a broad spectrum of views ranging from the historic peninsula of Istanbul to the Bosphorus, bridges, and modern skyscrapers. We invite you to experience the depth and breadth of the city from this viewing platform. Those wanting to enjoy this experience can choose the best ticket through the Official Emaar Entertainment Ticketing page and purchase their tickets easily. Don’t miss the chance to discover Istanbul’s magnificent skyline from a bird’s-eye perspective.
Burj Khalifa, United Arab Emirates.
Burj Khalifa is one of the most prominent symbols soaring into the sky of Dubai, the dazzling metropolis of the United Arab Emirates. Standing at 828 meters, it holds the title of not only the tallest structure in Dubai but also in the world, a masterpiece brought to life by Emaar Properties. With its architecture and durability, it pushes the boundaries of modern engineering, showcasing the pinnacle of urban design.
Emaar Properties plays a pioneering role in the luxury real estate sector, developing prestigious projects worldwide. Burj Khalifa is the company’s brightest star in Dubai, representing the peak of technological advancement and luxury living. Emaar’s extraordinary architectural vision and innovative approach are reflected in every detail of Burj Khalifa.
Emaar Properties is also known for other iconic structures, such as Emaar SkyView, located within Emaar Square Mall in Istanbul, which offers breathtaking views of the Bosphorus. Both structures share a commonality in providing visitors with unique experiences and leaving a modern signature on the skylines of their respective cities. Developed by Emaar Properties, these buildings are recognized not only as architectural marvels worldwide but also as spaces that add value to the cultural and social life of their cities. Visiting Burj Khalifa is an opportunity to feel the visionary spirit of Emaar and the dynamism of Dubai from great heights.
Shanghai Tower, China
Shanghai Tower rises in Lujiazui, the financial heart of Shanghai, China, standing as the tallest structure in the city at an impressive height of 632 meters. This skyscraper is notable not only for its size but also for its innovative, eco-friendly features and its fluid, spiral form. The tower serves as a model for integrating sustainable architecture and green building technologies into skyscraper design.
Advanced energy-saving systems, wind and rainwater collection mechanisms, and natural ventilation are among the features that minimize the tower’s environmental impact while ensuring maximum comfort for visitors and residents. The building also boasts a glass facade that maximizes natural light and enhances energy efficiency.
This colossal structure consists of nine interconnected vertical cities, offering a variety of services and amenities such as shopping malls, restaurants, hotels, and parking areas. Each “city” is meticulously designed to cater to users’ needs, fostering a sense of community even at high elevations.
Shanghai Tower also functions as a stunning observation deck. Visitors can access one of the highest observation terraces in the world, experiencing panoramic views of Shanghai’s magnificent skyline and natural beauty. Observing the vibrant rhythm and incredible profile of the city from this unique viewpoint provides an entirely new perspective.
Not only does Shanghai Tower represent modern engineering and design achievements, but it also reflects our commitment to a sustainable future, serving as a global source of inspiration. This skyscraper showcases not only Shanghai’s architectural prowess but also its dedication to environmental responsibility, acting as a living symbol that reaches for the sky.
Abraj Al Bait Tower, Saudi Arabia
Abraj Al Bait Tower rises in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, reaching a towering height of 601 meters. It is not just a tower, but also a part of the urban landscape and a religious symbol. Recognized as the world’s largest clock tower, this structure combines the spiritual atmosphere of Mecca with modern architecture, reflecting the city’s religious significance.
Situated just steps away from the Kaaba, this impressive tower complex has become a center for pilgrims who visit throughout the year. Abraj Al Bait not only tells time but also serves as a spiritual guide in the heart of the Islamic world, witnessing the Hajj and Umrah visits of millions of Muslims each year.
The complex houses luxury hotels, shopping centers, an observation point, and various residential areas. Blending the elegant details of Islamic architecture with modern design, Abraj Al Bait features a clock face that shines in gold and blue tones as it rises into the sky. Each side of the clock tower has one of the largest clock faces in the world, equipped with large LED screens that are visible from miles away.
The religious significance of Abraj Al Bait elevates it beyond just a skyscraper, making it a gathering point for Muslims from all over the world. This tower is designed to meet the needs of the modern world while respecting Mecca’s historical and spiritual heritage, demonstrating how Saudi Arabia incorporates a modern touch while preserving tradition and spirituality in the holy city.
Taipei 101, Taiwan
Taipei 101 is an impressive structure rising in the capital of Taiwan, Taipei, named for being the world’s first 101-story skyscraper. At a staggering height of 509 meters, this skyscraper defines the city’s profile and stands as a marvel of modern design and engineering. Its bamboo-inspired design symbolizes Taiwan’s traditional aesthetics and natural beauty while also being notable for its seismic resilience.
Not only does Taipei 101 offer breathtaking city views, but it also features many innovative attributes that push the boundaries of design and technology. It houses the world’s largest tuned mass damper, which enhances its earthquake resistance and positions it as a pioneer in architectural advancements.
Taipei 101 is also known for its delightful dining options, shopping malls, and spacious office areas. The building hosts both international brands and local boutiques, making it not just a business and tourism hub, but also a mosaic of Taiwanese culture.
The observation decks provide panoramic views of urban life and surrounding natural wonders. For visitors wanting to experience Taipei’s day and nightscapes from a different perspective, Taipei 101 promises an unforgettable experience. This skyscraper symbolizes Taiwan’s technological advancements and economic growth, serving as an emblem of modern urban life in Taipei.
Willis Tower (formerly known as Sears Tower), USA
Willis Tower, formerly known as Sears Tower, is located in Chicago, Illinois, USA, and at a height of 442 meters, it holds a significant place among the tallest buildings in America. This skyscraper adds a characteristic feature to Chicago’s architectural diversity and soaring skyline, serving as a symbol of both modern urban life and American engineering achievement.
Completed in 1973, Willis Tower set a record as the tallest building in the world at the time. Its architecture reflects a sleek style, showcasing a perfect harmony of steel and glass, and it rises vertically with 108 floors. Known for its sturdy structure and aerodynamic design, the tower is resilient against Chicago’s rapidly changing weather and strong winds.
On the 103rd floor, Skydeck Chicago provides an observation platform that offers breathtaking views of the city. The Ledge, a glass balcony, gives visitors the sensation of standing in mid-air while allowing them to enjoy the cityscape from 412 meters above.
Willis Tower also functions as a hub for the business world, hosting numerous offices and enterprises. The building features restaurants, shops, and various service points, providing employment for thousands of people.
As one of Chicago’s iconic structures, Willis Tower continues to contribute to the city’s cultural life with its architecture, history, and stunning vistas. It stands as an icon that reflects Chicago’s architectural vision and dynamism, offering a magnificent experience to visitors and residents alike. This tower is considered a must-visit for anyone traveling to Chicago, recognized as part of the city’s soaring legacy.
One World Trade Center, ABD
One World Trade Center is one of the iconic symbols rising sharply over Manhattan in New York City, reaching a height of 541 meters. As the tallest building in the U.S., it stands as a monument to freedom and resilience in the city’s skyline. Built on the original site of the World Trade Center after the September 11 attacks, this skyscraper symbolizes a nation’s endurance and hopes.
Designed with principles of technology, ecology, and sustainability in mind, it has evolved beyond a mere office building to become a cultural space that represents the spirit and rapidly changing dynamics of New York. One World Trade Center is notable not only for its height and impressive architecture but also for its energy efficiency and environmentally friendly design features.
The building’s observation deck, One World Observatory, offers visitors a 360-degree panoramic view of the city, including the Hudson and East rivers and the Statue of Liberty. With floor-to-ceiling windows and high-tech observation platforms, this tower provides an experience that intertwines history and modern life, offering more than just a view.
Today, One World Trade Center serves as a landmark illustrating how cities around the world show resilience, rise, and bring communities together. As a testament to New York City’s rebirth and spirit of renewal, it has become a source of hope and inspiration for residents and visitors alike, solidifying its place among America’s and the world’s architectural wonders.
Petronas Twin Towers, Malaysia
The Petronas Twin Towers rise elegantly in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s capital, showcasing a refined dance of modern architecture at a height of 452 meters. Currently holding the title of the tallest twin towers in the world, these structures symbolize Malaysia’s dazzling architectural achievements as well as the country’s economic and cultural progress.
Designed as a unique fusion of postmodern architectural style and motifs from Islamic art, the towers feature geometric patterns on their facades that reinterpret traditional Malaysian design elements in a modern context. Each of the 88-story towers houses offices, conference rooms, a shopping mall, and various cultural event spaces, making them not just business centers but also public social and cultural meeting points.
The sky bridge between the Petronas Twin Towers offers visitors the chance to walk between the towers and experience the city’s panoramic views from two different perspectives. This bridge, located on the 41st and 42nd floors, enhances the structural integrity of the towers while serving as a unique vantage point.
The Petronas Twin Towers also add extra sparkle to Kuala Lumpur’s night skyline. LED lighting and illuminations transform the towers into gleaming jewels in the night sky, reflecting the city’s energy and diversity with different color schemes used during various times of the day and special events.
The towers have solidified Malaysia’s and Kuala Lumpur’s place on the world stage, contributing to the perception of this captivating metropolis as a must-visit destination. A source of pride for both locals and international visitors, the Petronas Twin Towers symbolize modern Malaysia’s belief in progress and hope for the future.
Empire State Building, USA
The Empire State Building is located in the heart of the United States, in the Manhattan neighborhood of New York, and at 381 meters tall (443.2 meters including the antenna), it is one of the city’s most iconic structures. Completed in 1931, this skyscraper rises as one of the most magnificent examples of Art Deco style and still holds a unique place among modern skyscrapers today.
The construction of this skyscraper represents a turning point in American history and has quickly become a symbol of the country’s economic recovery and industrial development in the early 20th century. The building’s construction reflects the labor of thousands of workers at the time and the American entrepreneurial spirit.
The Empire State Building, with its 102 floors and stunning observation decks, offers visitors a 360-degree view of New York City. The main observation deck on the 86th floor welcomes millions of visitors eager to explore the vibrant streets, the Hudson River, Times Square, and beyond. This building provides an unforgettable sight, especially during sunset and at night under the city lights.
The structure has also played a significant role in film and television. Featuring in classics like “King Kong” and “An Affair to Remember” as well as modern productions like “Sleepless in Seattle” and “Elf,” the Empire State Building has become a representation of New York in popular culture.
Moreover, the building is illuminated in special colors for various holidays and memorial days each year. It transforms into a visual spectacle with light shows that change colors, becoming part of the city’s and nation’s celebrations and significant events.
Even today, the Empire State Building continues to be a structure that reflects New York’s dynamism, innovation, and rich history. For anyone visiting New York, this skyscraper holds significant importance not just as a tourist attraction, but also as a vibrant representation of American architectural and cultural heritage.
Galata Tower, Turkey
The stone tower reaching towards the sky in the historic neighborhood of Galata in Istanbul, Galata Tower, is one of the city’s most recognizable structures. Built by the Genoese in the 14th century, this structure stands at 67 meters tall, offering a panoramic view of Istanbul’s unique skyline. Throughout history, this iconic building has served various purposes, including as a watchtower, prison, and fire lookout, and it is now a popular spot for both tourists and locals. Visitors can embark on a journey through time while experiencing the enchanting views of the Bosphorus, Golden Horn, and Old Istanbul from the tower’s summit.
Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy
The Leaning Tower of Pisa, recognized worldwide for its tilted structure, is located in the city of Pisa, Italy, and stands at a height of 56 meters. Officially known as the bell tower of the Duomo (cathedral), it was constructed in the 12th century. Over time, it acquired its famous tilt due to soil subsidence, becoming a symbol of humanity’s play with architectural and physical laws. Visitors flock to see this medieval engineering marvel, while the surrounding Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles) enchants with its historical and aesthetic beauty.
Eiffel Tower, France
The Eiffel Tower, a symbol of Paris, is an impressive structure where iron is transformed into art. Designed by Gustave Eiffel in 1889 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution, this tower rises to a height of 300 meters (324 meters including antennas) above the city. The three levels of the structure offer visitors restaurants and observation platforms, welcoming millions each year. At all hours, the lights of the Eiffel Tower shine over Paris, illuminating the night sky and creating an unforgettable silhouette in the capital of romance and art.
Maiden’s Tower, Turkey
Maiden’s Tower is a captivating structure that serves as the pearl of the Sea of Marmara in Istanbul, steeped in fairy-tale history and legends. Situated on a small islet just off the Salacak coast, this historic tower is surrounded by the tranquil waters of the Bosphorus and stands as one of the city’s most iconic symbols.
Its origins date back to ancient times, having been used for various purposes during the Byzantine and Ottoman periods. The tower has served as a lighthouse, a defense fortress, and a quarantine station, and has inspired numerous legends. The most famous tale recounts how a king imprisoned his daughter here due to a prophecy, claiming she would not escape the bite of a venomous snake. Such stories make Maiden’s Tower one of the most mystical places in not just Istanbul, but the world.
Today, visitors can explore this historic site and enjoy the café and restaurant. The tower has also become a popular venue for weddings and special events, transforming it into a place of celebration beyond just a tourist attraction. From Maiden’s Tower, breathtaking views of Istanbul’s Asian and European shores can be enjoyed, while the majestic silhouette of the historic peninsula and the Bosphorus offers a panoramic visual feast.
Visitors can reach Maiden’s Tower via small boats from Üsküdar. This short sea journey provides an opportunity to experience Istanbul’s history, beauty, and intertwined maritime life. The tower stands as a discovery point for anyone wishing to uncover the timeless stories and legends of Istanbul, making it one of the city’s most treasured gems that everyone should see.
Big Ben, England
Big Ben is actually the nickname for the largest bell of the famous Elizabeth Tower in London, although it is often used to refer to the entire tower. While the tower is officially named the Queen Elizabeth Tower, the term “Big Ben” is commonly used by the public for both the tower and the clock.
Big Ben is an iconic clock tower that was completed in 1859 and stands 96 meters tall. One of the most recognizable clock towers in the world, it is part of the Palace of Westminster and serves the British Parliament. Its impressive Gothic architecture makes it a striking feature of London’s skyline and it is considered a symbol of both the city and the country.
Big Ben is also famous for its clock mechanism and regular chimes. The ringing of the bell every hour marks the passage of time and the rhythm of life in London. Additionally, it plays a role in celebrations with special chimes during New Year’s Eve and significant national events.
A popular photo spot for tourists, Big Ben has also featured in numerous films and television shows. Although it may occasionally close for maintenance and restoration, Big Ben and its clock tower remain vibrant symbols reflecting London’s history, culture, and heritage. The melodic chimes of Big Ben not only signify the time in the city but also evoke memories of England for many around the world.
These towering structures not only offer visitors exhilarating views due to their heights, but they also narrate the culture and history of their cities from the sky. Buildings like Emaar SkyView continue to redefine modern architecture while giving their cities a new identity. Visiting each of these towers means experiencing the spirit of that city from its heights. To enjoy these unique experiences, you can easily purchase your tickets for Emaar SkyView with the best options through Official Emaar Entertainment Ticketing and discover the unique beauty of Istanbul from above.
