Pack your bags because it’s time for a global McDonald’s adventure! Once you step outside the US, you’ll know that the chain isn’t just about burgers and fries. These 10 global McDonald’s will give you a one-of-a-kind experience, and a sight to behold—literally—because of their stunning architectural features (and also menu twists).
10. Birch House, Penang, Malaysia
When you travel to Malaysia, you can visit both a historical spot and a McDonald’s at Penang Times Square. This is where the Birch House is located, a colonial mansion that served as an office of a smelting firm in the 19th century. Today, the fascinating building hosts a McDonald’s, so you can munch on your cheeseburger while learning about the history of smelting industry on Penang Island.
9. Batumi, Georgia
The McDonald’s branch in Batumi, Georgia is an architectural wonder, designed by renowned architect Giorgi Khamaladze. The futuristic building will mesmerize you with its over 400 glass panels designed to reflect the water around it. This McDonald’s branch bagged the commercial building of the year award in 2014 from ArchDaily.
8. Roma Termini, Rome, Italy
If you love the historical experience that comes with visiting a McDonald’s, then you wouldn’t want to miss this branch in Rome, Italy. The McDonald’s itself is housing an ancient structure that’s over 2,500 years old. On the basement floor, prepare to be amazed by the remains of the Servian Wall, also known as Rome’s first line of defense against enemies during the 4th Century B.C.
7. Taupo, New Zealand
Eating your favorite McDonald’s items on an airplane isn’t a far-fetched dream anymore. In New Zealand, there’s a McDonald’s restaurant that features a decommissioned DC3 airplane. It was used in the 60s and became a permanent fixture around Lake Taupo in 1984. In daytime, you literally can eat inside the plane and get a view of the original flight deck.
6. Rotterdam, The Netherlands
What was once the ugliest building in all of Rotterdam is now one of the most beautiful buildings around the world, all thanks to the experts over at Mei Architects. This branch of McDonald’s is also covered in glass, but unlike in Batumi, this one has a transparent glass, allowing diners to enjoy the view of the outdoors. At night, the building glows gold to attract the nightlife crowd.
5. Aswan, Egypt
McDonald’s by the river, anyone? You can do just that in a branch located in the Egyptian city of Aswan. The restaurant offers exceptional views of the storied river. There’s also plenty of space outdoors, so you can bring your fries and burger with you while watching the boats sail by.
4. Méqui 1000, São Paulo, Brazil
Did you know that “Mc” sounds like “Méqui” when pronounced by Brazilians? That’s why you see the latter on McDonald’s stores in the area. Even more astounding is the 1000th restaurant to open in São Paulo. The structure was designed makes the fast food chain look like a gourmet option. It has a giant Big Mac chandelier and a Golden Arches swing set!
3. Bordeaux, France
The Golden Arches in Bordeaux is one of the eight retr0-style branches throughout France. This one will take you back to the 60s, and outside of it, there’s a blue lifeguard shack that pays homage to the first-ever McDonald’s located in the coastal California. Inside, black and white ceramic floor tiles and turquoise benches will greet you.
2. Lindvallen, Sweden
Why go for a drive thru, when you can “ski thru?” Yes, you can do that in Sweden, where you’ll find the only ski-thru McDonald’s in the world! SkiStar Lindvallen, a ski resort in Sweden, is home to the McSki that has been operating since the 90s. They also have a McCafe serving hot chocolate and warm cinnamon buns, perfect for winter time!
1. Budapest, Hungary
The world’s most beautiful McDonald’s in the world, according to New York Post, is the one in Nyugati Railway Station in Budapest. It screams 1920s Art Deco–style, featuring huge glass windows, antique lamps, and a food conveyor belt. At night every weekend, it turns into a nightclub with amazing light shows and DJ sets! Special menu items are also served, including a burger with foie gras.