number one tourist city

Top 20 Most Visited Cities in the World

March 13, 2024

Bangkok is the most visited city in the world with 22 million international visitors, followed by Paris with 19.10 million visitors, and then by London with 19 million visitors.

In this article you’ll find statistics revealing the 20 most visited cities in the world.

A study by Mastercard has yielded the Global Destinations Cities Index (pdf) . It ranks cities based on total international overnight visitor arrivals and cross-border spending.

In other terms, this report lists the most popular cities in the world, and the most popular tourist destinations.

Mastercard's Global Destinations Cities Index

By understanding international travel patterns and studying how it affects urban economies, the index can also predict visitor growth for the following year.

The review puts Bangkok as the most visited city in the world, with approximately 22 million international visitors. More detailed studies reveal visitor patterns, such as an average of 4.7 nights stay and an average spending of USD $173 daily.

The famous Bali is also on the charts at the 19th spot, totaling 8.26 million international visitors. Its diverse regions and moody aesthetics prove to be popular among social media users; search for Bali on Instagram and you’ll be flooded with stunning photos.

Paris , a solid holiday destination, continues to lead at 2nd place alongside Bangkok and London . This stresses how visitors seek cities that offer business opportunities, varied attractions, and distinct cultures. With 19.10 million international visitors, Paris is expected to host similar numbers in the coming year.

1. Bangkok: 22.78 Million Visitors

2. paris: 19.10 million visitors, 3. london: 19.09 million visitors, 4. dubai: 15.93 million visitors, 5. singapore: 14.67 million visitors, 6. kuala lumpur: 13.79 million visitors, 7. new york: 13.60 million visitors, 8. istanbul: 13.40 million visitors, 9. tokyo: 12.93 million visitors, 10. antalya: 12.41 million visitors, 11. seoul: 11.25 million visitors, 12. osaka: 10.14 million visitors, 13. makkah: 10 million visitors, 14. phuket: 9.89 million visitors, 15. pattaya: 9.44 million visitors, 16. milan: 9.10 million visitors, 17. barcelona: 9.09 million visitors, 18. palma de mallorca: 8.96 million visitors, 19. bali: 8.26 million visitors, 20. hong kong sar: 8.23 million visitors, the most visited cities in the world.

Top tourist destinations are those that offer diversity in attractions and environment. This is also a confirmed trend we noticed in the most visited countries in the world list.

From slow and romantic to fast-paced and sleek, the world’s most visited cities have their own distinct pace and color.

I haven’t been everywhere but it’s on my list. Susan Sontag – One of my favorite travel quotes .

Country: Thailand | Total International Visitors: 22.78 million | Last Year’s Rank: 1

Bangkok is the most visited city in the world (as of 2019)

Bangkok, the capital of Thailand , is the most visited city in the world thanks to a whopping 22 million international visitors!

Wreathed in the noise of tuk-tuk s and constant activity is the city of Bangkok, where map-less exploration always leads to fun discovery.

Enjoy the usual city comforts of megamalls and modern spaces before turning towards its collection of golden temples and shrines. Follow your nose to Bangkok’s countless street markets stuffed with spicy, sour, sweet, and salty flavors, then hop on a boat to reach their floating markets.

In the night, Chinatown and Sukhumvit reveals a vibrant nightlife that is both cosmopolitan and cultural. And to forget to enjoy the exciting day-trips away from this busy city!

But learn how to stay safe in Bangkok before you go, and I also suggest that you take a look at one of the following travel guides. They are both excellent and worth reading.

Country: France | Total International Visitors: 19.10 million | Last Year’s Rank: 3 (⬆)

Paris is the second most visited city in the world and the most visited city in Europe !

Paris will arrest your attention with its classic buildings, arching Parisian bridges and elegant boulevards.

Take a cruise along River Seine for a quick look at the city’s historical monuments, or swing by individual neighborhoods for Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, the Louvre , and more.

And as an established art and fashion capital, visitors can’t go without seeing the collections of Musee d’Orsay and Centre Pompidou. Atmospheric bookstores, vintage shops and flea markets make their mark beside art nouveau department stores such as Galeries Lafayette.

To immerse yourself in this beautiful city from the comfort of your couch, pick any of the following photo book. They all include breathtaking photos that will surprise and delight you for sure!

Country: United Kingdom | Total International Visitors: 19.09 million | Last Year’s Rank: 2 (⬇)

The Big Ben against a colorful sunset in London

London is clearly one of the most popular cities in the world! The gothic architecture in London is matched by splashes of innovation (such as the Shard, Tate Modern, and the Sky Garden), offering up grand and historical quarters.

You’ll be charmed by the taverns and all of West End and impressed by London’s contemporary art, theater and literature.

Greeting you with both the beauty of green parks and urban sprawl, the city will take you through a stunning historical journey.

Make sure to read our guide on all the things London is famous for .

Country: United Arab Emirates | Total International Visitors: 15.93 million | Last Year’s Rank: 4

white yacht sailing in Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai rises out from the desert in all its futuristic glory.

High-rises dominate the skyline, housing mega-malls, and sleek office blocks.

City life is defined by lazy shopping, performance venues, serene places of worship, and fancy rooftop terraces.

On the fringes are beaches, pieces of nature in contrast to the man-made aquariums and botanical gardens.

And of course, you can sign up for a desert trip and experience riding a camel, or flying down the dunes on a four-wheeler.

Country: The Republic of Singapore | Total International Visitors: 14.67 million | Last Year’s Rank: 5

Green and innovative, Singapore is a city designed with the future in mind.

Hop from attraction to another with its efficient transportation system and hit up the diverse neighborhoods of Little India to Chinatown.

From hawker centers to street markets to fine dining, you’ll be eating your fill of multi-national cuisine – Singapore is a foodie must-visit.

When you’re not busy eating, you will be basking in the luxe Orchard Road shopping mall, or exploring the famous Botanic Gardens.

Country: Malaysia | Total International Visitors: 13.79 million | Last Year’s Rank: 7 (⬆)

Open your senses to absorb Kuala Lumpur’s lively energy!

Thanks to its multicultural mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian community, the city is home to mosques and temples that stand out from gleaming skyscrapers.

This celebration of historical and modern also shows itself in the contrasting high-fashion shopping malls and vibrant street markets.

Spend your holiday scouting out designer brands and hunting down the best hawker stalls for the best of two worlds.

Country: United States of America | Total International Visitors: 13.60 million | Last Year’s Rank: 6 (⬇)

New York, or the city where dreams are made!

Following the city’s grid-like design, trawl the streets for private art galleries and world-famous the Met, MoMA, and Guggenhiem. Indie bookstores, brightly lit Chinatown, high-end boutiques and hipster cafés lead into grand office buildings and huge Central Park.

Enjoy lavish performances in Broadway or eat your way through rooftop restaurants and hole-in-the-wall eateries. New York is THE metropolitan city that will get you buzzing in excitement.

Country: Turkey | Total International Visitors: 13.40 million | Last Year’s Rank: 9 (⬆)

Istanbul is a historical trove, its strategic location having witnessed many ruling empires.

Tracing back to the Greeks, Romans, Venetians, and finally the Ottomans, the city is adorned with Byzantine churches and imperial mosques.

Recent decades have seen sharp spikes in the skyline as galleries, museums, and tall office towers grew alongside the old.

Visitors also praise Istanbul’s culinary diversity which is a mix of Asian and European flavor; but local kebab and mezze is the go-to.

Country: Japan | Total International Visitors: 12.93 million | Last Year’s Rank: 8 (⬇)

If there was a city that lived in the future, Tokyo is it!

Clean streets, chrome skyscrapers, and ever-moving crowds keep Tokyo running 24/7.

Smart electronics and convenient technology set incredibly high living standards.

Yet amidst the neon signboards and flashy urban sprawl are pockets of green and the spiritual; Tokyo remembers its past deeply. Visit the Edo-styled streets of Yanezen and serene Meiji Shrine.

To experience Tokyo, look past the trendy cafés and bold fashions to find under-the-tracks eateries, languid neighborhoods, and hidden shrines.

Country: Turkey | Total International Visitors: 12.41 million | Last Year’s Rank: 11 (⬆)

Set out for the stunning Antalya, a stylish city poised along the Turkish Riviera.

Combining the Mediterranean coastline with preserved Kaleici old quarters, Antalya is a romantic getaway.

Stroll through the city for finely restored Ottoman houses and wind up at the harbor.

With the scent of the sea in mind, explore the Suna & Inan Kirac Kaleici Museum or Antalya Museum for a walk down memory lane.

Country: South Korea | Total International Visitors: 11.25 million | Last Year’s Rank: 10 (⬇)

Seoul constantly upgrades with new trends – in fact, it is the trending holiday destination.

The city is a youth-driven hub, luring in K-pop fans, and fashion gurus with promises of cultural activities, idol sightings, and shopping.

But don’t just spend your time browsing the shops and feasting on midnight snacks; Seoul has plenty of heritage sites for you to see.

Sight-see its palaces in traditional hanbok and delve into dated markets for another piece of the puzzle.

Country: Japan | Total International Visitors: 10.14 million | Last Year’s Rank: 19 (⬆)

If you don’t dig the fast-paced Tokyo, hit up the friendly and sun-warmed Osaka instead.

The gateway to Kyoto and Kobe, Osaka is a cultural center that delights with both heritage sites and commercial fun.

Energetic Dotonbori is never empty of people, comprised of restaurants that range from okonomiyaki to standing ramen stalls.

Adjacent Shinsaibashi is kilometers of boutiques, bookstores and sweet shops; shopping malls are concentrated in Umeda.

Osaka Castle and Tennoji Temple are two of many historical structures, and Universal Studios Japan is a full-day distraction!

Country: Saudi Arabia | Total International Visitors: 10.00 million | Last Year’s Rank: 13

Highly symbolic Makkah is a key pilgrimage destination for all Muslims.

The city where Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) was born, Makkah is a religious center with sacred Kaaba at its heart – it is Islam’s holiest city.

Only Muslims are allowed into this desert valley city, which dates back to 7th century.

Visitors (by millions per year) will find that Makkah is developed, modern buildings surrounding the religious hotspot; in contrast, cozy homes are nestled in rocky hills to reflect its traditional nature.

Country: Thailand | Total International Visitors: 9.89 million | Last Year’s Rank: 12 (⬇)

Phuket is beach bliss and karst islands, encompassing two national parks and too many islands to explore.

The range of beaches is spectacular, from part-central Patong to luxurious Surin and Ao Bang Thao. Meanwhile, stunning coral reefs invite scuba divers and snorkeling groups to explore the glittering waters of the Similan Islands.

You can also kayak into Ao Phang-Nga’s lagoons and wind around limestone karsts.

Phuket Town also offers museums, cooking classes, Chinese shrines, and wildlife sanctuaries to keep things fresh.

Country: Thailand | Total International Visitors: 9.44 million | Last Year’s Rank: 18 (⬆)

If it is heat you want, hit up touristy Pattaya for endless beach fun and a party-themed central area.

There are of course, Thailand’s stunning temples and shrines, but Pattaya is known for its seaside resorts.

Sign up for a harried tour of the city before settling in along the coast for more sun and relaxation. This is a city that embraces hedonist attitudes to the max.

Country: Italy | Total International Visitors: 9.10 million | Last Year’s Rank: 15 (⬇)

Elegant Milan is all about creativity and the arts.

Breaking free of Italian wars to pave way for post-war development, Milan impresses with art deco and futuristic architecture.

Its main draw however, remains in its art and fashion.

Marvel at the city’s art collection and strike up conversation with gallery owners; Triennale design museum will wow you.

Stop by fashion houses, showrooms, boutiques and all the stylish spaces you can think of.

To round off, indulge in the rich and Mediterranean-influenced Milanese cooking.

Country: Spain | Total International Visitors: 9.09 million | Last Year’s Rank: 17

Barcelona is generous with its fresh sea bounty and world-class architecture.

You can expect as many flavors of architecture as there are tapas – too many to see in a week.

From Roman-era subterranean spaces to the Gothic Quarter of the Middle Ages, to Gaudi’s modernism masterpieces, the city is dotted with magnificent architecture.

Sandy beaches, rolling Collserola hills, majestic Montjuic and sculpture gardens add to the picturesque layout. With endless museums, galleries, taverns and green spaces to visit, you’ll be on your feet from day to night.

Country: Spain | Total International Visitors: 8.96 million | Last Year’s Rank: 16 (⬇)

Spain’s Palma De Mallorca has witnessed its share of rulers.

From 13th century Christian leaders to the preceding Moors and Romans, this historical chain of empires are seen in the city’s mixed architecture and historical sites.

Start with the Gothic Catedral and branch out into the medieval streets.

You’ll see lively public squares, noble townhouses, imposing baroque churches and colorful street markets.

The bohemian vibe is also strong in suburban neighborhoods, teeming with craft studios and galleries.

By the main reason why people visit Mallorca are its famous cristal clear beaches!

From Alcudia to Cala d’or , you’ll find plenty of wonderful spot where you can relax and swim with the fishes (literally) in the Mediterranean sea.

Country: Indonesia | Total International Visitors: 8.26 million | Last Year’s Rank: 20 (⬆)

Another trending location that has taken over social media feeds, especially Instagram, is Bali, featuring lush jungles and seaside villas. These recent years, it’s beauty made Bali one of the most popular tourist destinations !

Traditions reign as locals march to temple ceremonies and hosts incredible dance performances; the island celebrates the spiritual with colorful displays.

Bali is also diverse – you can treat yourself at lavish Bukit Peninsula, explore the mysterious Ubud or party hard at Kuta.

Diving sites, ancient monuments, city comforts, and seaside retreat in one, Bali is potential!

As millennials would say, “it is a mood”!

Country: China | Total International Visitors: 8.23 million | Last Year’s Rank: 14 (⬇)

The harbor might not be as fragrant as its name proclaims, but Hong Kong’s busy streets and sky-high buildings will linger in your senses!

The city’s skyline hides much of its unique cultural-scape, international brands and sleek malls existing beside haggling vendors and garish goods.

There’s always something to see or do, whether it is taking a ferry across the harbor or snapping panoramic shots on Victoria Peak.

Fill your itinerary with dimsum eats and temples visits. Enjoy retail time and water-themed Ocean Park. Treat yourself to challenging hikes and spellbinding coastal views for Hong Kong is more than concrete and steel.

Business ventures and growth opportunity aside, these cities gained their title of the most visited cities in the world due to strong local culture and variety in attractions.

This list has shown that travelers choose their destinations based off what unique experiences it can give them, opposed to spending potential or first-world comforts.

Diverse geography is a plus too.

The most visited countries in the world list confirms this observation.

Bali, for instance, is trending for its choice of jungle stay, seaside resorts, and city dwellings. Similarly, the sharp contrast between metropolitan Istanbul and Dubai versus their desert settings offers one-of-a-kind sights.

The trend carries over to more urban cities as well; Bangkok is visual cacophony of golden temples, unusual floating markets, sleek shopping malls and old villages. London and Paris too offer neighborhoods with distinctive style.

About the author

Travel Reporter & Editorial Director

Ph.D. in Geography, Travel Photographer, and Software Engineer. Been on 4 continents and loved them all.

3. New York

NYC between 2020 and 2022 was a ghastly reminder of the vulnerability of even the colossal and seemingly all-powerful; we saw here what awaited other cities across the U.S. and globally, first in its hospitals, then in its all-hands-on-deck recovery efforts.

Today, NYC is also the urban recovery writ large. Sniping haters who declared that the big, vibrant, cheek-by-jowl city experiment was finally over as the urban exodus intensified in 2020 and vacancy in the city’s coveted real estate hit double digits were quickly silenced by the rebound. The mid-pandemic 50% drop in real estate sales shot up to the highest-ever median rents in Manhattan two years later (currently registering at a new all-time high of the mid-$5,000s per month).

Tourism, the accelerant for so many of the city’s amenities, was a priority for a sustainable recovery, and city leaders are doing everything in their power to bring back not only those apprehensive New Yorkers whose hunger for regular bites of the Big Apple is finally being sated, but also the nearly 70 million people who visited in 2019 and spent $46 billion across its expansive quilt of Sights & Landmarks (ranked #13 globally).

The city has no other choice: office occupancy remains about 50% of pre-pandemic levels, according to local numbers. For example, Bloomberg examined data from eight major Manhattan office buildings and discovered that “foot traffic is down about 52% on Fridays and 45% on Mondays compared with pre-COVID.” The domino effect is perilous: an estimated 40% drop in office market value as office towers sit partially empty could cost $5 billion in lost tax revenue (an astonishing 5% of the city’s annual budget). Subway ridership is equally concerning, resulting in service cuts.

Fortunately, tourism numbers have had a breathtaking return, from 33 million visitors in 2021 (less than half of 2019’s total) to 56 million last year—and onward to a projected 61 million in 2023. First order of business: getting those not already here to town. The suspension of travel for more than a year expedited the long-planned transformations of New York’s international gateways. LaGuardia Airport, Newark Liberty International Airport and John F. Kennedy International Airport all have new terminals, with the new Terminal B at LaGuardia alone boasting 35 gates (to say nothing of the FAO Schwarz on site). The new Terminal C also came online last year. Newark Liberty International’s updated Terminal A has opened with 33 new gates and construction has started on a new, congestion-easing 2.5-mile elevated guideway train system. JFK just unveiled 130,000 square feet of new and renovated space, and the New Terminal One opens later this decade. Back on the ground, Moynihan Train Hall is a new 17-track expansion of Penn Station that, if you squint, could pass for a Northern European transit hub from the future.

With so many expected arrivals, NYC is certainly making sure everyone has a place to stay. Almost 10,000 new or renovated hotel rooms opened in 2022 alone, including the headline-grabbing Aman New York, an “urban sanctuary” on Fifth Avenue. Also open is the year-old Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad—named for its ’hood—which features Jose Andres’ Nubeluz lounge on the 50th floor and plenty of massive windows from which to watch the street action. Better yet, soak in the 360-degree city panorama on the rooftop patio. The buildout stretches across the city, with a newly opened Thompson in Midtown, and new Renaissance Hotels properties in Harlem and Flushing. Moxy Hotels is also opening multiple locations in the Lower East Side and Williamsburg.

At street level, the city’s firehose turns cultural, with massive museums (ranking #6 globally) going all-in on expansions and new openings. The Louis Armstrong House Museum in Corona, Queens, is undergoing a physical and programmatic expansion for a new cultural center that includes an interactive exhibit, archival collections, a 68-seat jazz club and a store. It should be open by the time you read this. The Bronx Children’s Museum also just reopened after moving to a new home in Mill Pond Park. Dia Chelsea is a new contemporary installation space, and the Frick Madison (the temporary home of the Frick Collection) has opened in the Breuer on Madison Avenue—a building formerly used by the Met. Speaking of the Met, New York’s 153-year-old cultural institution (housing 1.5 million objects and hosting seven million visitors in a non-pandemic year) announced a $500-million reno of its modern and contemporary wing. Not as storied but equally New York is the new Museum of Broadway, the first permanent museum dedicated to the famed heartland of the stage, which opened in Times Square with a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of major theater productions. Also: Broadway shows are back!

Two more very NYC reasons to experience the city now: 2023 marked the 50th anniversary of the birth of hip hop music, founded in the Bronx on August 11, 1973, when Clive Campbell—better known as DJ Kool Herc—spun records at his sister’s birthday party. Dozens of local celebrations, exhibits and workshops will extend into 2024. It’s also the 100-year anniversary of the underrated Museum of the City of New York, which celebrates and documents 750,000 objects, including photographs, prints, costumes, paintings and more, to allow NYC-philes to obsess over this place like nowhere else.

For those who prefer their immersion outdoors, classics like the High Line and Central Park are joined by the city’s newest green space, Little Island—2.4 acres floating on the Hudson near the Meatpacking District on the site of an old pier. Like most things here, you have to see it to believe it.

When it’s your turn to return to America’s best city, do yourself a favor and make time to see the phoenix rise from above: there are the classics, like the Empire State Building and the Top of the Rock, but there are also spectacular new perches, like SUMMIT One Vanderbilt and its all-glass exterior elevators, called Ascent. Go up, look down and breathe out. This city is back.

Despite earthquakes, tsunamis and typhoons, Tokyo has long held on to its top spot as one of the most livable metropolises on the planet (quantified by its Top 3 global ranking this year). Young kids playing and walking to school unattended—a pre-pandemic mind-bender for visitors to the world’s largest city—is a common sight once more after three-plus years of lockdowns and intermittent school closures.

The disastrous 2021 Summer Olympics may be mercifully in the rear view, although the tens of billions spent on infrastructure to welcome the world that stayed away will saddle the region for years. If there’s a silver lining, it’s that the city’s 2,000 hotels, inns and guest houses that opened during the pandemic (to say nothing of the dozens of shopping complexes and other tourist developments) are as ready for returning visitors as any destination on earth.

The Japanese government remains steadfast, keeping its target of 60 million visitors and $136 billion in tourism revenue by 2030. It’s not as delusional as it sounds: the country enjoyed record tourism for seven straight years and can now accommodate even more, with the expansion of the international terminal at Haneda, the city’s main airport (ranked #38 globally), and a planned 18-minute rail link from arrivals to downtown by 2031. Tokyo holds on to its #1 spot for Shopping, helped by retail icons like Ginza’s luxury department stores, newly enhanced with the art-bedecked and sharply designed Ginza Six shopping center. The newly renovated Miyashita Park boasts 90 boutique shops and restaurants, plus a new hotel with a view of the famed Shibuya district, complete with volleyball courts and a skatepark sprawling over 2.5 acres. Just opened is the retail-centric office development of Toranomon Hills and the larger Azabudai Hills, which will accommodate more than 20,000 workers in what is envisioned as a vertical city within a city.

5. Singapore

Emerging from its origins as a free-spirited trading port, Singapore has undergone a remarkable transformation to emerge as one of Asia’s most modern, well-organized and captivating urban centers.

Tourists in Singapore can immerse themselves in two favored local pastimes: shopping, which ranks #11 globally, and, of course, eating. The retail choices are staggering, from haute couture to electronics, from the countless shops adorning Orchard Road to the 24-hour, six-story Mustafa Centre. The culinary landscape lives up to its #14 Restaurants ranking, buoyed by the popularity of the beloved spicy white pepper crab and the sweet, refreshing Singapore Sling.

Capturing a photograph from the colossal rooftop infinity pool of Marina Bay Sands (poised to expand further with an additional 1,000-room hotel tower and a live entertainment arena) has become a symbolic ritual. On the opposite shoreline, Merlion Park, with its metallic, surfboard-like head, offers an even more iconic perspective.

In the coming years, Singapore will focus on boosting prosperity (currently sitting pretty at #2), creating more green areas and building vibrant developments for work, education and play. The existing Changi Aviation Park will be expanded with the development of Changi East Industrial Zone, and a mega port in Tuas is set to be the world’s largest fully automated terminal when completed. Closer to the city, a new waterfront district is being explored just south of the airport, called the Great Southern Waterfront, which is slated to build 9,000 housing units along Singapore’s southern coast. Locals are also buzzing about the forthcoming NS Square, a future outdoor multipurpose venue in the Downtown Core area of Marina Bay that will replace the popular Marina Bay floating platform.

To a large part of the world’s population, Dubai is “The Vegas of Arabia,” a place that takes pride in turning every notion previously held about the Middle East on its head. Famed for outlandish developments like Palm Jumeirah, home to Atlantis, the Palm and the made-famous-by-Tom-Cruise Burj Khalifa—the tallest building in the world—the city has, over the years, made breaking world records a national pastime: tallest, longest, fastest, largest. Think of it, and the city’s probably done it.

No wonder it ranks #8 in our Attractions subcategory, crammed with never-ending malls, aquariums, indoor ski parks, dancing fountains, fantasy theme parks and Disneyfied water playgrounds that pay homage to Hollywood, Bollywood, Marvel and Lego—as well as innumerable family-friendly resorts.

Catering to all these visitors is no small feat, which is why Dubai will soon have more hotel rooms than larger cities like London or New York, according to Zoom Property Insights. Leading the charge is Burj Al Arab, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, renowned for its (self-presented) “seven-star status.” And now, with the number of rooms in the city soaring beyond 150,000 and many more new hotels and resorts in the pipeline, Dubai’s hotel and hospitality sector is poised for greatness. This will, in turn, create more and more jobs, and boost the city’s already high overall Prosperity ranking of #4.

The focus now is on the city’s 2040 Urban Masterplan—as set out by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, vice president and ruler of Dubai—which calls for developing a “20-minute city”—allowing residents access to 80% of their daily needs and destinations within 20 minutes by foot or bike, making the global city feel more like a home town.

7. San Francisco

Despite San Francisco’s meticulously documented challenges, job opportunities and infrastructure buildout pave the way as the world continues to rush in like it always has. Its #5 ranking in our overall Prosperity index is driven by high salaries that draw global workers who rank the sixth most educated on the planet. No wonder San Francisco ranks #33 for Global 500 Companies. In fact, the Bay Area remains the number one place for start-up innovation, powered by venture capital kept interested in the city’s famed “ecosystem”—for talent, for research and for universities.

In Henley & Partners and New World Wealth’s “World’s Wealthiest Cities Report 2023,” San Francisco ranked third, tied with London and after New York and Tokyo, with 285,000 residing here in 2022.

Still, the city is in a crisis not seen in decades. Population decline was the worst among large U.S. counties between July 2020 and July 2022 (although it’s slowed recently). Equally terrifying, the city’s office vacancy fluctuates at around 30%. Even the proudest locals wring their hands as companies leave for Austin and Florida. And then tweet about how you should, too.

Undeterred, local leaders are rolling out the most daring bike and pedestrian infrastructure in America and the protected bike network now boasts 464 miles of bikeways, including 50 miles of new car-free/car-light streets in the past year alone. The aggressive pursuit of outdoor public spaces—from downtown’s new Salesforce Park, 70 feet above street level atop the roof of the Salesforce Transit Center, to the half-dozen parks, tunnels and spaces opened last year in the Presidio alone (including Presidio Tunnel Tops, a 14-acre park built over the Presidio Parkway highway tunnels)—was a clinic in city-building opportunism that will pay dividends for decades.

8. Barcelona

Barcelona threads the needle as one of the world’s rare cities that ranks Top 10 in both our overall Livability (#10) and Lovability (#7) indices. It has near-perfect weather year-round, more than three miles of golden sandy beaches within city limits, iconic parks, striking architecture and diverse, era-spanning neighborhoods that are destinations at all hours, many fueled by the city’s Top 3 nightlife ranking.

Can you blame the 12 million annual tourists who flocked here pre-pandemic, more than doubling the city’s population? Barcelona responded with some of the strictest vacation rental rules anywhere, aimed at controlling the effects of runaway tourism—like real estate investors who snatch up apartments only to rent them on Airbnb, depleting an already limited supply. The city also elected Mayor Ada Colau, the first woman to hold the role, on a Barcelona-for-citizens platform. Ultimately the pandemic took care of “the tourist problem,” with devastating results. But even as the tide of tourists once again washes over the city, what they find is a more citizen-focused place, increasingly self-propelled and non-vehicular, with more than 150 miles of new bike lanes and daring initiatives like Eixos Verds (Green Axis), a network of quieter roads that share space equally between cars, bikes and pedestrians, and are dotted with benches and community squares. The inspiration germinated from a local pilot project that, unsurprisingly, improved citizen mental health.

The city is also no longer content with digital nomads, and is aggressively securing massive foreign investment, ranging from Lufthansa Group, the largest airline group in Europe, which is opening its first southern European digital hub here any day now, to U.S. real estate developer Panattoni, which will invest $300 million to build the largest data center in the region.

9. Amsterdam

Mayor Halsema’s administration is showing a practical stewardship of a place (and citizens) once abandoned to the tourist euro that’s co-authoring a future of accountability by everyone who calls the magnetic Dutch capital home. Take last year’s approach to a refugee accommodation crisis that led to hundreds of unhoused migrants, many fleeing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, sleeping outside the city’s overflowing resource centers: accommodate more than 1,000 on a moored cruise ship for six months, buying vital time to find other arrangements.

Not surprisingly, this care for others and willingness for locals to do the work is represented by the city’s Top 5 ranking in our overall Livability index. The sometimes out-of-control nightlife (ranked #10 globally) that the city was known and often marketed for—despite the attendant human trafficking—was another opportunity to right long-time local complaints, with local leaders going so far as to move the red-light district out of the famed De Wallen neighborhood to a suburban Erotic Center while banning non-residents from cannabis cafés and ditching tours that glorify the city’s baser side. Things escalated this spring, when smoking pot in public was banned outright and the city launched a “stay away” campaign targeting party tourism. Restaurants and bars will be asked to close by 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and the city will not allow new visitors into the old city district after 1 a.m.

Stepping in for vice are tours and programs focusing on the city’s enviable livability and Dutch history. And getting tourists (who numbered 22 million in 2019) away from the city center and out to the #8-ranked shopping and #11-ranked museums that pepper the city.

Oh, and this past summer, city council also banned cruise ships from the city center as part of its clean-air efforts.

In the land of kimchi, K-pop, K-dramas and K-beauty, Seoul is at the forefront of modern culture with many distinctions—home to BTS, the biggest-selling band in the world; the place that spawned Parasite, the genre-bending best-picture Oscar-winner; the city anchored by Gwangjang Market, featured on Netflix, frequented by Gordon Ramsay and a favorite of U.S. politicos.

In an astonishingly short span, South Korea’s capital has 180ed from war-ravaged city to high-tech hub. Its e-governance system and Fourth Industrial Revolution are thriving, creating a digitally interconnected city on 5G and 6G networks. The city’s ascent is boosted by our eighth-lowest Poverty Rate ranking, sixth-most Global 500 firms located in town, and a growing start-up ecosystem waiting its turn to disrupt the incumbents. All that innovation is sated by the 176 Michelin-rated venues that have earned Seoul a #3 ranking in our Restaurants subcategory. Start at Mukja Golmok, literally “Let’s Eat Alley”; move on to the vegetable-centric temple cuisine at Dooreyoo, Michelin-starred chef Tony Yoo’s oasis; then head to Gwangjang Market, where you can eat everything from a soup of rice cakes and kimchi-tofu dumplings to squirmy live octopus (really).

Seoul’s popularity as a travel destination is ascendant post-pandemic, too. In 2022, it ranked as the fourth-most searched destination on Airbnb globally, and in 2023, the government is investing millions in international conferences by expediting three MICE clusters within the city. As the Korean wave continues to crest and break in distant lands, this charismatic city is creating a new paradigm for culture and commerce, which in turn has thousands flocking to its shores.

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Few cities serve up the ability to walk Western history like Roma. Heck, Palatine Hill alone invites you into two millennia’s worth if you’ve got an hour. And that’s just the stuff you can see. In recent months, construction projects have unearthed everything from a rare fourth-century golden glass depiction of Roma—the goddess personifying the city—to a life-sized marble statue of a Roman emperor dressed as Hercules. “The millennial history of our city never ceases to amaze and enchant the world,” tweeted Roberto Gualtieri, mayor of Rome, after a recent find. Mix in underrated parks and greenways (Rome ranks #28 in our Outdoors subcategory) and its thousands of portals back in time (Sights & Landmarks rank #4 globally) and it’s easy to see how Rome remains an urban treasure, drawing record post-pandemic tourists despite historic heat waves that exceeded 107 degrees Fahrenheit in July. Declarations of love for the city have multiplied with social media channels, of course, and Rome trails only London in our global Tripadvisor Reviews subcategory. The city is reopening fast, with new restaurants like Pulejo, Don Pasquale and Romanè, and properties like the country’s first Six Senses resort.

Pandemic lockdowns derailed tourism in Prague, and over the past year the city made long-lasting decisions to ensure that its #4-ranked Museums (ahead of places like Rome and Berlin) and #3-ranked Attractions (trailing only London and Tokyo) remain accessible to the citizens who supported local when tourism didn’t. Places like the Čapadlo embankment on the Vltava River have become open-air stages and galleries reminiscent of Paris. Náplavka, with its former ice-storage spaces ensconced in the river’s retaining walls, was reborn as a vibrant urban market and series of pop-up bars. Prague’s compact, fairy-tale walkability enchants in centuries-old cobbled streets and the (publicly accessible) hilltop Prague Castle, which has emerged from lockdown alongside Salm Palace—home to National Gallery exhibition spaces—fully renovated. The Baroque Clam-Gallas Palace in Old Town is also newly reopened and eager to be admired. The city’s four universities, relative affordability and #4 Nightlife ranking have inspired young talent and billions in foreign investment to pour in—from real estate developers to long-established firms like Microsoft, Cisco and Oracle doubling down on a good thing.

Madrid’s sustainability-driven investment in its bounteous (but long-dormant) infrastructure and public assets is a wonder to watch unfold in real time. It starts, not surprisingly, with reuse and the conviction that everything old can be new again. Take the new Santander Park, an instant citizen and visitor destination that used to be a golf course. A 47-mile urban forest network with nearly half a million new trees will connect the city’s existing forest masses and reuse derelict sites between roads and buildings. Upon completion, this “green wall” is projected to help absorb 175,000 tons of carbon dioxide annually and mitigate the city’s worsening urban heat. The investment in the city’s outdoor realm will improve Madrid’s #65 ranking in our Outdoors subcategory, especially combined with how safe the city has become, along with its tied top spot for Walk Score globally. Madrid’s electric bus network trails only Berlin in Europe and new charging stations and bike lanes are everywhere. But the biggest news is this year’s full approval of Madrid Nuevo Norte, the largest current urban regeneration project in Europe, in the city’s underused northern rail district: more than 550 acres dedicated to the Madrid of the future.

Berlin is a city where remnants of a fragile history mingle with a present in which being whatever you want simply comes with residency. Today, waves of Ukrainians fleeing Russia’s invasion are joining North Africans, Afghanis and dozens of other groups seeking a new life. It’s a big reason why the city ranks #23 in our Start-ups subcategory, and #29 in Labor Force Participation. Its #50 ranking for Educational Attainment among residents will only climb with ambitious new citizens. The city is as culturally devoted as it is welcoming. This is the home of Museum Island, after all, and the city’s Top 5 ranking globally in our Museums subcategory will also ascend with recent and upcoming openings. Two major museums have moved into the new Humboldt Forum in the heart of the city: the Ethnological Museum and the Museum of Asian Art. A dozen more will open, dedicated to everything from samurai to video games. Another exciting 2023 development is the ongoing cultural and creative evolution of Berlin’s Tempelhof Airport, Europe’s largest historic monument, with the curve of the building stretching 3/4 of a mile. In 2026, the anticipated Museum of the 20th Century will launch as one of Europe’s finest.

15. Los Angeles

Centennial milestones were all the rage in 2023 Los Angeles, and the chance to experience the celebrations will stretch into 2024 and improve the city’s impressive #11 Attractions ranking globally. The biggie: the Hollywood Sign. In a recent study commissioned by Los Angeles Tourism, nearly 80% of respondents affirmed it as L.A.’s most iconic landmark. Also celebrating a century are Warner Bros. Studios and the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, as hallowed an American ground as you’ll find and home to both the first Super Bowl in 1967 and multiple Olympic Games (including the upcoming 2028 Summer Games, when L.A. will become the first place in the U.S. to host the event three times). The world is curious (indicated by the #4 ranking for global Google searches, which powers a #13 finish in our overall Lovability index). The next two years are equally frenzied for the city’s arts and culture scene. Both the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the Natural History Museum’s NHM Commons open in 2024, followed by the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, founded by philanthropist and filmmaker George Lucas and his wife Mellody Hobson, co-CEO and president of Ariel Investments.

16. Chicago

Three years of pandemic decimation and spiking inflation only meant the Windy City was spring-loaded for a breakout 2023, powered by a fully operational O’Hare International, ranked #7 globally. Meetings and conventions are also back, pouring into McCormick Place and its stunning Lake Michigan perch, ranked #38 in our Convention Center subcategory. The city’s quiet productivity is humming again, leaner and more efficient than ever, with the 19th-most Global 500 headquarters on the planet. Even amid the post-pandemic headlines of emptying city cores, Chicago was named the top U.S. metro area for corporate investment for an astonishing 10th consecutive year by Site Selection, a magazine that tracks urban real estate and corporate development. The reason? “The metro area continues to attract companies and the talent those companies covet.” The local food scene (#31) is also ascendant, powered by daring new openings and recently immortalized by FX series The Bear. In 2024, all eyes will be on South Chicago’s Jackson Park. Its $500-million Obama Presidential Center opens the following year as a museum and public gathering space looking to welcome 700,000 annual visitors and generate a long-term economic impact of $3 billion.

17. Washington

The ubiquity of D.C. in dramas on screens small and large, combined with the shocking events of recent years, means we’re all thinking about Washington. Want proof? It once again topped not only all U.S. cities for searches on Google in the past year, but globally as well. Given its omnipresence, there are few cities so poised to build on their exposure. “There is currently $9.6 billion in development underway and the city has added new hotels, museums, rooftops, Michelin-rated dining and more for travelers to explore,” says Elliott Ferguson, president and CEO of Destination DC. Those 2023 openings include the launch of the 274-room Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill, joining new properties like the AC Hotel Washington DC Capitol Hill Navy Yard and the Pendry Washington DC – The Wharf. And speaking of The Wharf, phase two of the massive Southwest Waterfront development just opened, creating yet another destination neighborhood in a city packed with them. New and reopening museums include the 32,000-square-foot Rubell Museum DC in a historically Black public school, and the National Museum of Women in the Arts, the world’s only major art museum solely dedicated to championing female artists.

18. Beijing

Enigmatic hutongs whisper tales of emperors and concubines; next to them, towering skyscrapers reflect Beijing’s rapid global ascent. The city’s 3,000-year-old history comes alive across seven UNESCO World Heritage sites, punctuated by the modern Bird’s Nest Olympic stadium and the Guardian Art Center—the world’s first custom-built auction house. No longer does “Peking” observe world affairs from the sidelines; today’s Beijing is keen to solidify China’s position as the world’s second-largest economy. President Xi Jinping speaks of Beijing’s commitment to peace and democracy—a stark contrast to allegations of using the Beijing 2022 Olympics to “sportwash” perceptions of human rights. This may be the reason the city scores high on our Livability and Prosperity indices (#11 and #16, respectively) but has a long way to go on Lovability (#78)—something the government is aware of, and is seemingly taking steps to address. With the Global Security and Global Development initiatives externalizing internal policies—as seen at Beijing Daxing Airport’s new innovation center, which facilitates entry of foreign enterprises into the Chinese market—Beijing aims to create an environment that supports sovereignty, security and development, meaning the “Forbidden City” would be forbidden no more.

19. Istanbul

The ancient collision between Europe and Asia radiates in Türkiye’s kinetic capital. It’s why the city is among the most beguiling for its sense of place, inside and out. Its Top 10 Sights & Landmarks ranking, as well as its #18 spot in our Outdoors subcategory, will both improve after extensive renovations for the Turkish Republic’s centennial in October 2023. The devastating February 2023 earthquakes that killed tens of thousands in the country’s southeast and in Syria (and that flooded the capital with survivors) have sounded the alarms about Istanbul’s own preparation for an inevitable destructive quake. The tragedy has cast a pall around new openings like Galataport, Istanbul’s reinvigorated historic harbor. Extending a mile along the Bosporus Strait near the city’s long-coveted Karaköy district, the $1.7-billion project boasts the world’s first-ever underground cruise terminal. More recently, the luxury Peninsula Istanbul opened in February, capping a blazing year for hotel openings that includes the seafront luxury resort JW Marriott Marmara Sea and a dozen others. The city’s #10-ranked museums also get a boost from the Galataport investment, with the Istanbul Modern, the city’s first contemporary art museum (designed by Renzo Piano), returning to its Karaköy roots.

Safe, gregarious and increasingly wealthy, the Celtic Tiger has never been fiercer, ranking #6 globally in our GDP per Capita subcategory and Top 25 for Global 500 firms that call the city home. The magnetism is obvious in places like the Docklands area, known as Silicon Docks, home to big tech and digital players including Google, Meta, Amazon, eBay, Apple and Airbnb. They come for some of the world’s lowest corporate taxes and stay for homegrown economic development initiatives like Ireland’s Local Enterprise Office, which supports international companies with mentoring, training and financial grants. Several internationally renowned universities (Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin and Dublin City University) help the city attract start-ups looking for a smaller, more affordable capital center. U.S. software firm Workday opened its new European headquarters last year, as did Kara Connect, an employee well-being platform from Iceland. It helps to be able to offer eager young employees something to do outside of work, which Dublin’s famous—though increasingly costly—pub-centric nightlife (ranked #16) does, along with an abundance of concerts, shows and events (Culture ranks #21). Of course, being among the safest capitals on the planet helps, too.

Is there another city today that resonates as the global benchmark for urban livability, sustainability and equity more than the Austrian capital? Yes, it ranks Top 3 in our Walk Score and Biking subcategories, but it also excels in housing: in an era of prohibitive global urban rents, 60% of the city’s population resides in subsidized apartments and 25% of homes are owned by the city. And it’s tackling the climate emergency: last year, city leaders announced carbon neutrality by 2040, besting the Paris Agreement by a decade. Food security commitments yield over 5,000 acres of fields, vineyards and gardens within city limits. That gives Vienna’s current #56 spot in our Restaurants subcategory room to ascend with authentic localism, especially thriving vegetarian spots like Tian, winner of a Michelin Green Star for sustainable gastronomy in 2022. Also helping this green journey are the new, fully automated X-Wagen trains connecting the city’s U-Bahn stations, with buildout happening throughout the decade. The best part? The trains are built almost exclusively at the Siemens factory in town. Equally exciting is the massive new Aspern Seestadt urban development that insists residents walk, bike and use public transit on local streets (that are—finally!—named after women).

The birthplace of Armani, Versace and dozens of other megawatt icons is no longer content with its crown as Europe’s fashion and design center. Or even as Italy’s financial heart. Milan is driven, as always, by its entrepreneurial hunger and is increasingly fueled by wealthy newcomers lured to the famed good life by government tax breaks (like capping income tax on money made abroad at €100,000 annually). The result is an influx of Brexit (and Russian) capital seeking a home, and the flurry of luxury real estate, hotels and social clubs that such capital inspires. The Ferragamo-owned Lungarno Collection unveiled the Portrait Milano in one of Europe’s oldest seminaries, complete with a massive piazza. U.S. networking broker Core Club is opening in a nearby palazzo, its first outside of San Francisco and New York City. This strategic proximity to other European capitals and alpine resorts pulling in the global elite also won the city the 2026 Olympic Winter Games and a rush of development. Residents and visitors keep fit via the city’s shared #1 spot globally for Walk Score ranking, and #4 spot in our Biking subcategory.

23. Toronto

All the buzz you’re hearing about North America’s second-largest financial center doesn’t even come close to doing justice to what’s going on in Toronto right now. The city is the welcoming front door to a country on the hunt for new skilled immigrants. Already, half of Toronto’s population was born outside of Canada, and the city will blow past 7 million by the time you read this, on its way to trailing only Mexico City and New York in North American populations by the 2070s. Today, its 238 cranes more than quadruple second-place Seattle’s count of 51. All that construction is optimizing and streamlining an emergent global destination city, from the reopening of its century-old Massey Hall to the massive new Renzo Piano-designed Ontario Court of Justice that combined six older buildings under one roof. Much-needed downtown green space has been added with Love Park, featuring a heart-shaped pond and built on the site of a former Gardiner Expressway off-ramp with access to the city’s lakefront. Coming up, the St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts is getting a $400-million facelift and will be Canada’s first carbon-neutral theater upon reopening in 2028.

A hub of higher education and home to the 14th-most educated workforce on the planet, Beantown produces a steady stream of new talent to help attract start-ups and established companies alike. Future talent gravitates to Harvard, of course—the top-ranked university in the world—as well as to Boston’s density of other world-class universities and colleges. The region bursts with lecture halls, labs and classrooms for the more than 75 institutions of higher learning, energized by the estimated 200,000 postsecondary students creating stories, ideas, solutions and technologies with global influence. No wonder the city ranks #8 globally for GDP per Capita. The buildout of America’s newest (oldest) urban destination, buoyed by billions in federal stimulus funds, is also afoot. Hotel inventory is projected to grow by 5,000 new rooms by 2030, fueled by the 1,055-room Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport on the South Boston Waterfront near the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, and the first Raffles property in North America. The city’s cultural clout is also ascendant courtesy of the Fenway Sports Group and Live Nation’s new MGM Music Hall at Fenway, a 5,000-seat concert hall that extends the iconic ballpark.

25. Abu Dhabi

Sandstone walls tell tales of Arabian nights, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque sings a symphony of white marble and Islamic motifs, the enigmatic Louvre Abu Dhabi rises proudly on Saadiyat Island—all against the backdrop of opulent hotels, megamalls and ATMs that quite literally dispense bars of gold. From a pearl diving port that housed mangroves and gazelles to an oil-and-gas superpower to a global arts and culture destination, Abu Dhabi has, time and again, reinvented itself in ways big—and bigger. The emirate tops our overall Prosperity index, but its Livability ranking is on the other end of the spectrum (#236)—which means there’s a lot of work to do. As part of its growth roadmap for 2023, the emirate aims to invest upwards of $12 billion into culture and tourism, helping diversify the economy away from oil and drawing in more visitors. This puts Saadiyat Island in the limelight—as host to performances and exhibitions at Manarat Al Saadiyat and Berklee Abu Dhabi, and future home of the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, the new local Guggenheim, Zayed National Museum and teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi.

26. Budapest

Budapest has emerged as a European capital post-pandemic, coveted by digital nomads looking for urban vibrancy on a budget and without the rigid establishment of the old, old Europe. The city, which is split by the expansive bend of the Danube River, delivers in spades. On the west bank is medieval Buda, hilly and full of history, and on the east is Pest, modern and bohemian, with its recently revamped City Park. The two were first linked in 1849 by the iconic Széchenyi Chain Bridge and together they now offer an alluring whole that ranks #8 globally for Attractions and in the top 25 for Museums, which include the must-see Museum of Fine Arts along with a dozen other niche ones, from the Szamos Chocolate Museum, to an epic Pinball Museum. At night, Budapest’s Communist-era factories and parkades come alive as “ruin bars,” a distinctly Eastern European approach that keeps the city’s nightlife (ranked #16) reinventing itself. Budapest is also suddenly a luxury property hot spot, with the new Matild Palace—the city’s first Luxury Collection hotel—opening inside a UNESCO landmark last year, joining newcomer Párisi Udvar Hotel.

27. Sao Paulo

Lina Bo Bardi’s epoch-defining São Paulo Museum of Art and architect Rino Levi’s pyramidal FIESP Cultural Center are just two eye-catching icons of São Paulo—but Brazil’s largest city, home to more than 23 million “Paulistanos,” draws its cultural identity from global influences as diverse as Japan, Italy, Lebanon and France. This amalgamation creates a day-to-day that is among the most vibrant and multifaceted on earth. Over the years, São Paulo has extended its borders beyond its historical core and into middle-class neighborhoods, growth that’s been labeled as gentrification and is drawing attention to fault lines within Brazilian society, rooted in race, class, gender and sexuality. This is a city of the people, as evidenced by its #9 ranking in our overall Lovability index. While Livability is lower, at #27, Prosperity is a distant #161 globally. However, despite facing challenges, the Brazilian economy maintains its resilience. Notably, the first quarter witnessed robust real GDP growth, largely attributed to impressive crop yields. Inflation is on a rapid descent, which is poised to prompt interest rate reductions by Brazil’s central bank—meaning brighter days ahead for Sampa.

Seeing the continued success of tourism in neighboring Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Oman, and keen on moving the economy away from fossil fuels, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia started issuing tourist visas in April 2018 for the first time in eight years. The gateway is Saudi’s conservative capital, where anything qualifying as entertainment is discouraged and where a rigid focus is kept on business—mostly around extractive industries—resulting in the third-highest GDP per Capita ranking globally. Not surprisingly, Riyadh also has the lowest poverty rate on the planet. Still, events like Noor Riyadh, a new outdoor lights and art festival (along with Saudi’s recent purchase of cultural and sports icons and franchises), offer hope of some freedom of expression. The #76-ranked airport will rise with the 2025 launch of Riyadh Air and plans for $150 billion in transportation infrastructure by 2030, as well as (potentially) a new airport in the city. This summer, King Khalid International Airport became the MENA region’s first to obtain the Welcome Chinese Certification from the Xi regime. Still, Saudi Arabia’s ultraconservative leanings present a threat to the country’s plans for international tourism, as does its reputation for murdering journalists and outspoken critics.

29. Stockholm

No other Scandinavian city serves up a sensory feast like Stockholm, blending rustic, traditional and New Nordic cuisine, geography (the city center was built on 14 islands), and salt and fresh-water outdoor swimming areas within a bounty of public green space, the cobblestones of Gamla Stan and its 1700s architecture and daring modern design. Throw in a multicultural population (powered by the ninth-most educated citizens of any city) and an epic summer season with near-constant daylight and you’ve got a coveted hometown. Stockholm built the world’s largest open-fiber network in the 1990s, followed a decade or so later by the launch of global hits like Skype, Spotify and Minecraft—earning the city the moniker of “The Unicorn Factory.” More billion-dollar start-ups have launched here than in any place outside of Silicon Valley. A wander through the recently gentrified Södermalm neighborhood, the birthplace of many tech giants, reveals why the city ranks second globally in our Labor Force Participation subcategory this year, with educated, calm citizens creatively solving the world’s problems and chasing the payoffs that come with doing so. It ranks Top 20 in our overall Prosperity index as a result.

Yes, there’s Oktoberfest every autumn, but Germany’s third-largest city works as hard as it plays, becoming one of Europe’s hottest destinations for new residents seeking this elusive balance. The pandemic only highlighted the productivity of understated Bavarian innovation, especially given all the “temporary” initiatives—from outdoor seating to a reimagined concrete factory—that have become permanent and made this merry city even more fun. But this is Germany after all and there’s productivity to think about. Munich boasts the eighth-best convention center on the planet—and its airport is ranked #18 (soon to improve after a $550-million reno wraps up by early 2024), ensuring regional and global access to all that Bavarian ingenuity. The Technical University of Munich, which brands itself “the Entrepreneurial University,” impressively ranks in the Top 25 globally. With all that citizen-focused infrastructure and entrepreneurship, Munich ranks #22 in our overall Livability index, and #40 for Prosperity, including #19 for Global 500 headquarters (made up primarily of automakers, media and manufacturing, but being quickly joined by biotech and IT giants). Next year, Apple plans to invest an additional billion dollars into its local operations in the city.

31. Melbourne

The weather may not always seem promising and there may not be an iconic bridge in sight, but what Melbourne lacks in weather and landmarks it more than makes up for with its food—and coffee—culture, art scene (look out for graffitied laneways like Hosier Lane) and quirky offerings like the Brighton Bathing Boxes and the tiny, adorable St. Kilda penguins. Melbourne is also quintessentially “wine country”—it’s home to 21 remarkable wine regions, including the prestigious Yarra Valley, the charming Mornington Peninsula and the rugged Grampians. The city is home to the Australian Open, which draws in hundreds of thousands of tennis enthusiasts to Melbourne Park and its arenas—in 2023, attendance reached a record-breaking 839,192 fans over a two-week stretch. Melbourne is held in high regard by visitors and proud locals (ranking #37 in our overall Lovability index) and is livable, too (#34)—and it is also taking steps to ascend the ranks on the prosperity of its citizens (although #53 globally is already quite commendable). That’s where Plan Melbourne 2017-2050 comes in—a response to the challenges of population growth, it drives economic prosperity and livability while protecting Melbourne’s environment and heritage.

You’re not imagining it: all of your friends are moving to Lisbon. But it’s only partially for the 2,799 annual hours of sunshine—the most of any European capital. There’s also the famed public transit, walkability and the 125+ miles of bike paths that opened last year (with more on the way) that will improve its #13 global ranking for Biking. To immerse yourself in Lisbon’s #16 ranking in our overall Livability index, scale any of the seven hills that provide perches to watch Atlantic sunsets, especially Castelo de São Jorge, up winding ancient alleys in one of Europe’s oldest neighborhoods—like, 1,500 years old. Such spots rank Lisbon #19 in our Outdoors subcategory. Newcomers continue to pour in, buoying the ascendant house prices with new remote work visas (the latest requires a monthly salary of $2,750) while ending overly generous foreign residencies. Temporary bans on Airbnb licenses are attempting to keep the city accessible for residents whose minimum wage is well under $1,000 per month. Still, new allures like the city’s most recent Michelin-starred, Japanese-influenced Kabuki and Kanazawa keep the newcomers flowing in.

Switzerland’s financial center (even after the failure of Credit Suisse) and largest metropolis is a magnet for foreigners who, along with multilingual Swiss nationals, enjoy one of the world’s highest standards of living. The city ranks 21st globally in our overall Prosperity index, powered by industrious citizenry that ranks #8 for Labor Force Participation and #11 for Global 500 headquarters, with major European players like Migros and UBS AG based here. The city’s population is also the largest it’s been since the halcyon days of the early 1960s. Zürich is statistically lauded like few others these days, ranking third globally—and first in Europe—in Insead Business School’s latest Global City Talent Competitiveness Index. ETH Zürich (or Swiss Federal Institute of Technology) ranks #17 in our University subcategory and acts as a vital and reliable pipeline for the city’s and nation’s envied economic development advantage. All that talent is getting on corporate site selector radars, as evidenced by Microsoft’s opening of a new technology center at the Zürich Airport to “deliver immersive industry experiences and deep technical engagement focused on business outcomes to customers,” according to the company.

34. Seattle

You won’t find Seattle among the panicky headlines chronicling the decline of U.S. west coast metropolises. Sure, the Emerald City is battling a burst housing bubble, a homelessness crisis and 20% commercial vacancy rates. But it’s also growing by 1% annually, fueled by talent seeking (literally) greener pastures and pulled by the influential titans of industry in town, from Amazon to Starbucks to Zillow. Heat waves in the American South will only accelerate immigration. Q1 2023 employment grew by 4%, powered by a Top 10 global GDP per Capita ranking and a talent pipeline stocked by the omnipresent UDub—the University of Washington—one of the world’s top public research universities (ranking #4 in our University subcategory). And that talent benefits from all manner of livability here, from start-up incubation to festivals to urban waterfront restoration. With its #26 ranking for Educational Attainment, is it any wonder Seattle is Top 25 globally for both Global 500 firms that call it home and for the number or start-ups? Its 51 construction cranes top the U.S., indicative of the big plans here and the expansion of everything from homegrown icons like Amazon and Microsoft to global brands like Korean luxury hospitality group Lotte Hotels.

Sydney unveils a dazzling narrative punctuated by the luminous Opera House, the iconic Harbour Bridge—colloquially known as the “coat hanger”—and sun-drenched beaches, from Bondi to Balmoral and beyond. Here, long, laidback summers melt into mild, mellow winters—the perfect backdrop to explore Sydney’s remarkable blend of vintage and modern, from the colonial-era sandstone buildings of The Rocks to new icons like the Sydney Tower. Today’s Sydney finds itself at a pivotal juncture that looks to infuse renewed vitality into the central business district. The City of Sydney has earmarked millions to breathe life into creative precincts and public events. Simultaneously, the New South Wales government introduced its “24-Hour Economy Strategy,” igniting the resurgence of inner-city vibrancy—nightlife, dining and culture. The city is beloved by Sydneysiders actual and wannabe—evident from its Lovability rank of #29—and it’s focusing on giving more people even more reasons to fall in love with it. The cityscape has blossomed with hundreds of permanent al fresco licenses, events like the acclaimed Laneway Festival are luring people back to the city’s core and grand-scale urban renewal ventures, such as the birth of Tech Central, all promise a radiant future for Sydney’s bustling heart.

Qatar’s epic makeover from obscurity to global hot spot is a story for the ages—what began as a fishing and pearl-diving settlement has transformed into a gleaming (and sometimes improbable) vision of the future. High-rises, hotels and malls have replaced desert terrain. Markets like Souq Waqif are now rewriting history, and museums of every genre (including the 18-year labor of love that is the National Museum of Qatar) call out to culture vultures. All of these reflect the bold “Qatar National Vision 2030,” which aims to transform the country into a knowledge-based economy. But this sheen is dulled by reminders of a harrowing human rights record, and investigations into labor conditions and restrictions on civil liberties. As a result, while Doha’s Prosperity ranking is in the Top 10 globally (#9), its Livability and Lovability rankings are nowhere close. Now, in a post-FIFA era, Doha is gearing up to host a six-month expo that will welcome almost three million visitors. No other city in the Middle East is hurtling toward its audacious goals at such breakneck speed… and Doha is only just getting started.

37. Brussels

Understated Brussels boasts breathtaking architecture (especially for Art Nouveau aficionados). Take the Grand Place—surely among the most beautiful squares in the world. The city has invested in public spaces, like the Tour & Taxis Food Market under the glass roofs of the former Gare Maritime, and the Grand Hospice: a repurposed neoclassical complex with beautiful colonnades and an interior park. (But also in the mix are state-commissioned buildings so ugly that entire social feeds hate on them.) Despite being the EU’s administrative center, one of the city’s most famous landmarks is Manneken Pis, a statue of a naked boy peeing into a fountain—a symbol of locals’ contempt for authority. The wit emanates from vibrant, educated, multiethnic citizenry (Brussels ranks #27 for Educational Attainment). Get local in the Congolese Matonge quarter’s flea markets and street art. Or at the new Working From_ co-working space at the Hoxton Hotel. The city is a gathering spot for conferences and summits of all kinds, which explains its Top 10 spot for Facebook Check-ins, and its Midi station is also the hub for a country with some of the world’s densest rail networks that is poised to expand inter-city and overnight connections in 2024.

38. San Jose

As the global heart of innovation and the urban center of Silicon Valley, San Jose trails only San Francisco in our overall Prosperity index in North America, and ranks #6 globally. Leading economically vital subcategories like Number of Start-ups (tied for #1) and Educational Attainment (#4) will have that effect. It’s all astonishing, and possible because of San Jose’s moat: 2,500 high-tech companies in and around city limits. It’s why San Jose doesn’t intend to lose its people—or jobs—for any sustained period of time. There’s just too much global support to keep a good thing going. The institutional prosperity in the city is perhaps most obvious in the bounty of universities that are performance drivers all their own (including Stanford, trailing only Boston’s Harvard in our University category), creating symbiotic integrations with local tech companies and offering access to funding and innovation like few others. Given the optimal conditions of a lauded, coveted school and the on-ramp it provides to jobs in the city, San Jose will continue to stock its talent pipeline for decades. The prospect of high-speed rail links to San Francisco and throughout California will mean improved access to talent.

39. Bangkok

Everything most of us know about Bangkok has to do with exotic food, illicit massage parlors, beautiful beaches or thrift shopping. Parodied in films like The Hangover 2 and unjustly reduced to stereotypes, this “City of Angels” is a unique metropolis where spirituality and hedonism coexist. Today, every corner of this city is abuzz with activity—thanks to a surge in visitors from Russia, en route to Phuket. Thousands have come to the city (Thailand has notably not barred inbound flights from Russia), hoping to avoid conscription to fight in Ukraine or just fleeing Russia’s self-inflicted misery. All this, against Thailand’s own volatile political scenario, like the recent barring of Pita Limjaroenrat from running for prime minister, which led to crippling street demonstrations. That hasn’t stopped the city from rising up the ranks, with a global #12 position in our overall Lovability index thanks to its #5 ranking for Shopping and #13 spot for Attractions. The city is also catering to a growing tourist base—a multi-floor cannabis complex will soon open in Chinatown, and 40-plus hotels will open across the capital by 2027. One thing’s for sure—the sensory overload that Bangkok has been known for will never cease.

It’s been a decade of steady growth for Poland, today a European economic powerhouse. But Russia’s and Nazi Germany’s Second World War invasions remain indelible, which is why Warsaw has welcomed more than 250,000 Ukrainian refugees fleeing Russia’s latest invasion, swelling its population by almost 20%. Ukrainians who remain post-war will join a population ranked #12 globally for Educational Attainment and #20 for GDP per Capita. With that kind of talent, the city is busy with its long-planned ambitious projects—from the rebuild of the 17th-century Saski Palace destroyed by the Nazis to new museums and Michelin-starred restaurants to the recently opened 1,017-foot Foster + Partners-designed Varso Tower, the EU’s tallest building. Warsaw also leads the largest infrastructure project in the Baltics in a century. The Rail Baltica high-speed railway should open in 2026, connecting Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania to Poland and the rest of Europe: a 540-mile link from Tallinn to Warsaw with a top speed of 145 miles per hour. Tourism is booming, too, with the city’s Attractions ranking #23 and a 4.4% rise in tourism contributing to its GDP in 2022 versus 2019, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council.

41. Copenhagen

Copenhagen’s compact, park-filled urban grid, connected by serpentine bike lanes that end at clean, city-sanctioned (finally!) urban swimming spots, earned the world’s locked-down attention during the pandemic. Its Top 25-ranked Labor Force Participation on top of all that urban bounty is also impressive. Global attention returned this year, by way of a UNESCO Capital of Architecture designation. Events are going on until 2026, at formal venues like the Danish Architecture Center, but also at places like the waterfront Opera Park, an urban green space designed for climate resilience. Copenhagen’s commitment to sustainability is nothing new, of course. It has long invested in its cycling infrastructure, attempting to make 50% of all work and school commutes on bicycles by 2025, as well as helping Denmark reach overall carbon neutrality by 2050. Transit buildout is everywhere, connecting more affordable districts on the city’s outskirts, most notably the much-needed Sydhavn connector next year. An international transit link to Malmö, Sweden, is also planned. But nothing will be as daring as the building of Lynetteholm, a 675-acre artificial island off the city’s coast, housing 35,000 people while protecting the harbor from rising water. Or so we hope.

Nestled on the distant western fringe of the Pacific Ocean, Taiwan perceives itself as an independent nation, yet its status as such is not acknowledged by Beijing. The birthplace of beloved boba, Mongolian BBQ and Din Tai Fung’s Michelin-starred soup dumplings, Taipei reveals a dynamic culinary scene across markets like Shida, traditional rechaos like Baxian Grill and gourmet restaurants like RAW and Mume—all of which help Taipei’s restaurants rank #9 globally. It’s also where Acer and Asus have their HQs, making it synonymous with affordable electronic goods (validating the city’s #12 Shopping rank). Any visit to the city is incomplete without a wander through the Taipei Technology District. Scoring well for both Lovability and Livability in equal measure (#52), Taipei has the distinction of being the first country in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage, and continues to be an inclusive haven for people from more conservative cities. It’s also committed to bringing about urban transformations in every aspect of its citizens’ lives through the New Taipei City’s Climate Action Plan, which focuses on greener buildings, smarter transportations, cleaner energy and more efficient natural resource allocation in its globally coveted semiconductor industries.

The rebellious Texas city—forged by can-do persistence cut with a university town’s progressive livability—is now a well-oiled talent-attraction machine. Talk to any entrepreneur leaving Silicon Valley, NYC or Seattle and chances are they’ve considered Austin. They come for the 24th-most educated citizenry on the planet that’s already here, and, given that Austin ranks #6 globally in our Google Search subcategory, they are soon on their way. Since the pandemic, Austin has secured headquarters for giants like Oracle, Tesla, BAE Systems and dozens more, joining incumbents like Samsung USA, which itself is mulling a $40-billion local investment into 11 manufacturing plants here. Dozens of ambitious tech firms (especially EV and superconductor manufacturers) are moving in monthly. New high-rises like the Waterline (the tallest building in Texas when it opens in 2026), along with Wilson Tower (the largest planned U.S. residential high-rise outside of NYC) will be just two of the biggest trophies on the city’s expanding skyline. The #23-ranked University of Texas at Austin is also a talent magnet, focusing on research and a growing skills pipeline to the symbiotic private sector. The local music scene is pretty good, too.

No longer overshadowed by Stockholm and Copenhagen, Oslo is proving itself a worthy destination all its own. Its #52 Museums ranking will improve with the recent opening of Munch, a waterfront museum dedicated to the Expressionist painter of The Scream. It, along with new districts like Sørenga, comprise the recently unveiled eastern waterfront that makes the entire harbor walkable via a six-mile trail network. Newer still is the downtown National Museum, which replaced several cultural buildings, including the National Gallery. It houses classical and contemporary art and architecture studies and it just became the largest art exhibition space in Scandinavia. Above the city, Rose Castle unveiled a permanent installation of paintings and sculptures that tell the story of Oslo’s resilience during the Second World War. No wonder its citizens rank #6 globally for Labor Force Participation, supported by 50-plus start-up hubs helping make Oslo one of Europe’s fastest-growing cities. The dozen floating saunas downtown do their part, too. Much-needed housing is aggressively being built in places like Fjord City on industrial port lands. As more prospective residents discover the drivers of Oslo’s #33 spot in our overall Livability index, its lore will only grow.

Japan’s third-largest city and an economic engine, Osaka has a long history of feeding its millions of inhabitants well, earning the city its motto: kuidaore , or “eat till you drop.” Affectionately known as tenka no daidokoro —the country’s kitchen—Osaka is Japan’s street food capital, home of takoyaki and okonomiyaki (as well as the birthplace of the infamous sushi conveyor belt). But the city also tickles many a funny bone with an abundance of comedy clubs specializing in manzai , a sillier take on the “straight man and wacky guy” comedy routine. A direct result of that beloved foodie culture and those must-see experiences is a decent showing in our Lovability and Prosperity indices, at #40 and #45 respectively—numbers that are poised to rise in the coming years.

And, recently, the government cemented Osaka’s place as a hub of entertainment by approving a controversial plan for the country’s first casino. To be built on the city’s artificial island of Yumeshima, it will be part of a $12.8-billion resort due to be completed in 2029. And with October’s Tourism EXPO Japan Osaka Kansai set to welcome 150,000 visitors, the city aims to captivate the imagination of travelers through a kaleidoscope of sensory and savory experiences.

46. Hong Kong

On any given day in Hong Kong, you could head to a fishing village less than an hour from downtown, lie on a beach, go shopping at a kinetic mall or timeless back-alley market, wind down at a memorable restaurant and then head out to spend the evening among the endless cafés and bars. What’s not to like?

Well, plenty, if you ask the locals. Hong Kong is a special administrative region of the People’s Republic of China that was, until recently, free to manage its own affairs. But over the past couple of decades, Beijing has chipped away at Hong Kong’s freedoms—sparking mass protests in the process. It’s what makes the city rank only #49 for its once-enviable Livability, but the pride and passion of the locals for their home makes it all the more lovable (at #19), despite the fraught politics. Still, Hong Kong moves onwards and upwards: Swire Properties, New World Development, Kerry Properties and Hongkong Land all increased their investments, delivering as many as 119 new private housing projects as early as 2024, with a total of 40,000 units. Hong Kong International Airport has also embarked on a series of projects aimed at turning it into an Airport City, including the Sky Bridge, which affords Instagram-ready views out over the airport to the countryside—setting the scene for a memorable stay.

47. Tel Aviv

With its perfect weather, laid-back lifestyle and burgeoning tech industry, it’s no surprise that Tel Aviv has become a coveted home base for increasingly mobile talent seeking exoticism and high salaries. They come knowing of the instability in this ancient land, like in May 2021, when 160 rockets rained down on the city as beachgoers scrambled for safety, and the near monthly reports of security forces intercepting terrorist attacks. But Tel Aviv doesn’t huddle for long, boasting a smart, cosmopolitan, curious populace that scores #33 globally for Educational Attainment. The city also appreciates its culture as much as its Campari, ranking #33 for Museums like the eponymous Museum of Art, whose new building of twisting geometric surfaces, designed by Preston Scott Cohen, is one of the city’s landmarks. Opened in 2018 and sited across the Yarkon River from the art museum is the Steinhardt Museum of Natural History, a grand monument to the natural world that also makes allowances for the country’s Abrahamic faith. Numerous hotels opened in 2022 (with more coming in 2023), and 170,000 people celebrated this year’s Tel Aviv Pride parade, including 10,000+ tourists.

The ancient capital has had a brutal decade: punishing financial crises, wildfires and the pandemic. Which makes this latest rebound particularly impressive, especially when you note that the city’s heritage was rarely compromised despite the austerity. The sustained investment is now blooming as jobs trickle back (fueled by global workers and micro start-ups coaxed by relative affordability and all manner of digital nomad visas) and tourist levels return to 2019 levels. They stroll the refreshed Grand Promenade, a 2.5-mile tree-lined and car-free walkway at the foot of the Acropolis that connects the city’s major archaeological sites (earning a #27 ranking for Sights & Landmarks). The Athens Olympic Museum in the northern Athenian suburb of Marousi is the nation’s newest, highlighting the history of the Olympic Games. Athens’ #31 ranking for Museums will improve soon enough. Another new (well, technically renovated) cultural destination is the National Gallery, reopened in 2021 after an eight-year reno that doubled its size and let in ample natural light to spotlight the European art. Oh, and there are also almost 300 new restaurants and 35 new hotels in town, with the anticipated One&Only Aesthesis opening any month now on a private oceanfront estate.

49. Frankfurt

Frankfurt has perfected the art of air access. Germany is in the middle of Europe, Frankfurt is in the middle of Germany. Its airport is one of the world’s aviation hubs (#4 globally in our Airport Connectivity subcategory). The city’s #10-ranked convention center draws more than 4.5 million visitors annually (pandemic years excepted). In 15 minutes, conventioneers arriving at FRA can be at the massive Messe Frankfurt, the world’s largest trade fair and event organizer, featuring its own exhibition grounds. A short stroll in any direction takes visitors to shopping, restaurants, museums and other pleasures to mix with the business of the day. A 10-minute Uber serves up historic, pub-sprinkled neighborhoods like Sachsenhausen. The convention center has invested heavily in its “hygiene concept,” a typically German system for safely organizing an event in the age of new pathogens. The city has also benefited from London’s Brexit uncertainty. J.P. Morgan is moving hundreds of employees from London to Frankfurt (and Paris), along with approximately €200 billion in assets. Financial clout as Germany’s business nerve center aside, the city is also becoming a vital global internet exchange point, and a strategic investment for firms requiring secure data communications infrastructure.

50. Vancouver

With its addictive views, mild climate and multiculturalism (it boasts the largest pan-Asian population outside of Asia), Vancouver is widely recognized as one of the most livable cities in the world (our ranking places it at #43 globally). An elemental collision of urban velocity and timeless, serene nature means that epic skiing, mountain biking and hiking is just a half-hour’s transit or bike ride north, while the city itself is studded with sandy shorelines, verdant gardens and Canada’s urban green-space jewel: Stanley Park. In the next three years, Vancouver will host the Invictus Games, the Grey Cup, the Laver Cup international tennis tournament, the 90th anniversary of the first international Alcoholics Anonymous convention and part of the FIFA World Cup. This all means a lot more travelers coming into the city. But Vancouver isn’t equipped for them. In the midst of rising real estate prices, the city is facing another challenge: fewer hotel rooms—a direct result of the government converting hundreds of rooms into social housing during the pandemic. That means the existing hotel rooms and vacation rentals are often too prohibitively priced to allow a new generation to fall in love with this special place.

51. San Diego

You could say that San Diego is where California began. It was here that Spanish colonists established the region’s very first mission in 1769. Today, it’s one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S., pulling in residents seeking 263 full and partly sunny days annually, the natural endowment of the #16-ranked Outdoors on the planet and the 23 beaches—70 miles of them—within city limits that make the city synonymous with the lore of SoCal surf culture. Speaking of storytelling, the sun-kissed backdrops coax locals to share the aesthetic bounty online, powering the city to a #35 spot for Tripadvisor Reviews and #38 for Instagram Hashtags. Increasingly, the buzz is on local attractions, with the 3.2-acre, $87-million Denny Sanford Wildlife Explorers Basecamp finally open and immersing visitors in the sights and sounds of ecosystems around the world, from balmy rainforests to dusty dunes. The city’s #60 Museums ranking will improve when the San Diego Museum of Art in iconic Balboa Park unveils its 2026 west wing, courtesy of Foster + Partners, a firm that has built iconic structures at museums around the world.

52. Orlando

Being the largest city in a region that generates more than $60 billion in tourism-related revenue every (non-pandemic) year gets you plenty of lift from a rising tide. That’s a lot of visitors with a story to tell if you give them the means to tell it. Orlando knows how to get people talking. Its #9 ranking in our Tripadvisor Reviews subcategory and a #6 spot for Attractions lift Orlando’s overall ranking. The city is gaining post-pandemic ground with the newly opened, $4.2-billion South Terminal Complex at Orlando International Airport, featuring the state’s first high-speed rail, called the Brightline, which connects Orlando with West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale and Miami. Downtown culture is also ascendant with this fall’s opening of live music venue Judson’s, the fourth indoor performance space at downtown Orlando’s Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, joining Steinmetz Hall (opened last year), the Walt Disney Theater and the Alexis & Jim Pugh Theater. The local economic story would’ve been even better if not for the Florida governor’s ongoing culture war with Disney. It cost Orlando a billion-dollar office complex and its estimated 2,000 high-paying jobs earlier this year.

53. Helsinki

Few nations managed the pandemic better than the country named the world’s happiest for the sixth year in a row. And if a country is the happiest in the world, its capital city likely is, too. The rapid and effective response of the Finnish government—supporting local businesses, holding virtual info sessions and generally having everyone’s back so long as they had each others’—showed citizens what is possible when a society obsesses over considered, accessible urban experiences. As such, Helsinki’s massive, purpose-built outdoor seating areas and other similar communal infrastructure projects have largely remained and city leaders continue to generously fund citizen placemaking. It’s the kind of sensible urban cohesion you’d expect from a city that boasts some of the lowest rates of poverty in Europe, as well as the 14th-highest rate of Labor Force Participation on the planet. The city’s natural bounty continues to expand with new trails, parks and an urban ferry system. Curious visitors are filling new hotels in repurposed spaces like GLO Hotel’s restored 1920s bank location near the port, and the Best Western Premier Hotel Katajanokka’s space in a converted former prison.

Miami’s natural attributes have always captured the world’s imagination and crystalized its hedonistic brand. The city ranks #23 globally in our Outdoors subcategory, and, subsequently, #7 for Instagram Hashtags showing off all those natural attributes. But it’s Miami’s openness to immigrants (and, more recently, the LGBTQIA+ community and Silicon Valley migrants) that has people buzzing. The city has the highest percentage of foreign-born residents in America (which is saying something) and, increasingly, a new distributed workforce continues to arrive to work (and play) from home here. Even with recent tech and crypto meltdowns, Miami ranks an impressive #36 on the planet for start-ups in town, and is hanging in with $400 million raised by local businesses in Q2 2023, according to Pitchbook. All that talent and down payment money is looking to buy in and housing costs are defying gravity (and interest rates). Residential buildout is everywhere and two luxury projects in particular will change the skyline. The 1,049-foot Waldorf Astoria Hotel and Residences is predicted to be the tallest residential tower south of New York when completed in 2027. The Residences, a 70-story luxury condominium tower, is scheduled to begin construction this year.

55. Buenos Aires

If you crave a taste of European flair in South America, you can’t go wrong with Buenos Aires. Its boho attitude—which birthed the tango’s intoxicating seduction—can still be felt in La Boca and San Telmo, as well as the Art Deco buildings that line the cobblestone streets. Living up to the city’s shared #1 Walk Score ranking, every place is just a stroll away, from the street art along Palermo and Colegiales to the 233-foot Obelisco de Buenos Aires and the internationally acclaimed Teatro Colón. The external wealth and influence here overshadows life in the rest of the country, which is suffering severe economic and social problems that are, in turn, impacting Baires. Even as inflation in Argentina is at 100%—the fourth highest in the world—Buenos Aires’ culinary scene is flourishing, with residents rushing to eat their feelings and spend their devaluing pesos. (No wonder the restaurant ranking has risen to #45.) Global visitors are pouring in, too, to feast on the #8-ranked Culture and #12-ranked Museums on the planet. INPROTUR, Argentina’s tourism office, reported that more tourists visited from the U.S. and Canada between January and May 2023 than during the same period in any year since 2010.

56. Hamburg

Hamburg is both Europe’s second-largest shipping port and a serious contender for “Venice of the North,” with a stunning lake and a latticework of canals. Emblematic of this is the $933-million Elbphilharmonie, a spectacular concert hall that combines 19th-century marine trade warehouses with the crystalline architecture and acoustics of the future. Hamburg’s commitment to the arts powers it to #31 in our Culture subcategory. Its nightlife (made famous by the nascent Beatles in the early 1960s) hasn’t lost a beat, ranking in the Top 25 globally. Hamburg comes by its opulence and sophistication honestly, with a workforce that ranks #21 for Labor Force Participation. And this being Germany, lower-income residents are not being left behind, evident in the city’s signature redevelopment project, HafenCity, set to open in 2026. In Europe’s biggest inner-city urban development initiative—which, over more than a decade, is transforming 618 acres of tumble-down docks along the port area into a buzzing shopping and residential area—a third of housing must be subsidized while another third is rental. Ambitious city-building continues in the burbs, too, with an innovative car-free neighborhood being built a 15-minute train ride from the center.

57. Brisbane

Australia’s third-largest city and the capital of Queensland boasts lush landscapes, a subtropical climate and abundant beaches—all complemented by gleaming skyscrapers and Queensland’s first casino in a central business district. Locals couldn’t resist: “Brisvegas” is now a nickname. Don’t let the glitz fool you, though. Although the Gold Coast, situated 40 miles to the south, is renowned for its surfing, vibrant nightlife and thrilling roller coasters, Brisbane has enough brains to balance its beauty. The Queensland Cultural Centre is a focal point for the arts, with the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art curating buzzy shows. What’s more, investment is pouring in, ranging from the colossal $3.6-billion riverfront casino initiative at Queen’s Wharf to the creation of a 1,500-seat glass theater within the dynamic South Bank. With the city anticipated to house an additional 1.5 million residents by 2045, growth is being accelerated by a designation as the host for the 2032 Olympics—the lead-up to which should generate tens of thousands of jobs throughout the construction sector. Consequently, the city’s #109 Prosperity rank holds the potential for a dramatic upswing to bring it closer in line with its already healthy #24 Livability ranking.

Nestled in the historic and often disputed region between Saudi Arabia and Iraq, Kuwait possesses a distinct allure. Once a thriving trade and fishing hub dubbed the “Marseilles of the Gulf,” modern Kuwait City is defined by the discovery of oil in the 1930s. Despite sharing the affluence of Gulf compatriots and oil reserves (earning an impressive #10 ranking in our overall Prosperity index) and showcasing an architectural panorama that’s both daring and inventive, it diverges in its stance on excess. This divergence might find its roots in the tumultuous years marked by the Iraqi invasion, or more recently by political instability: Kuwait introduced its seventh government in 36 months earlier this year. Local temperatures are forecast to rise by 10 degrees Fahrenheit by 2100, as compared to the 2000s. Kuwait ranks third in the world for carbon footprint—at 25 tons per CO 2 per person annually—trailing only Bahrain and Qatar. However, while counterparts like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have committed to net-zero targets within a few decades, Kuwait’s pledge for COP26 is a feeble single-digit reduction by 2035. Given this, is it really surprising that the city languishes at a dismal #253 in our Livability index?

59. Las Vegas

Few cities have been as supercharged by the return of the visitor economy as Las Vegas, which lives and dies by its #1 industry. A visit in 2023, therefore, is a pilgrimage into American urban resilience. After all, this is Vegas, baby, home to the planet’s fourth-best Culture and Attractions and the sixth-most Tripadvisor Reviews to document all that fun in the sun. (The city also ranks in the Top 25 globally in our Outdoors subcategory.) More than 23 million tourists arrived here in the first five months of 2023, a 19% increase year over year. Welcoming them are properties like the two-year-old, $4.3-billion Resorts World Las Vegas, comprising three hotels, the 27,000-square-foot Awana Spa and a 5,000-seat theater. The gilded Vegas construction pipeline still has at least $15 billion of new investment, even after the completion of the 25-acre Fontainebleau complex, and the $2-billion, 18,000-seat, 516-foot-in-diameter MSG Sphere, the largest spherical structure in the world. (You’ve likely seen it on your Insta, especially after U2 christened it this fall.) The city also topped Redfin’s web property searches for the first time ever last summer, indicating that smitten tourists want in on the fun full-time.

60. Montreal

When Harley Finkelstein, president of tech dynamo Shopify, talks about choosing Montreal as his family’s new home, he doesn’t mince words. “I don’t think there’s any city in the world that is more entrepreneurial than Montreal,” he told local outlet Cult MTL, adding that, “if you see a city with a disproportionate number of artists, musicians and chefs, that’s probably a city with great culture.” Planned local investment agrees. By late 2024, an innovation hub called Ax-C should open downtown, uniting entrepreneurs, incubators, university researchers, management experts and investors under one roof, like Toronto’s MaRS and Paris’s Station F. The hope is for it to reignite the downtown in a WFH reality. The city’s Top 20 global culture is also doing its part, with the 2025 opening of the massive Espace St-Denis in the Latin Quarter that will encapsulate the historic Théâtre St-Denis and create new performance spaces for the city’s smoldering arts scene and #48-ranked restaurants. There’s also a genuine effort to make the city more bike and pedestrian friendly, with this summer’s $22-million funding of 53 bike infrastructure projects and the move to close many streets to cars from spring to fall.

61. Glasgow

Glasgow powers to its global ranking on the strength of its education, including the planet’s eighth-most educated citizenry and its #36-ranked university. People not already here are certainly noticing. Tech start-ups hungry for cheap space and talent are drawn to the city’s working-class authenticity over pricier European capitals. What they find is a long legacy of homegrown talent, stoked by the eponymous university founded in 1451, the fourth oldest in the English-speaking world. It counts economist Adam Smith and U.S. founding father James Wilson as alumni. Being a university town, Glasgow performs well in our Nightlife subcategory (#42) and the city roars to prominence at gritty venues like the Sub Club, where live shows dominate. Glasgow was designated the U.K.’s first UNESCO City of Music in 2008, and the need to get back out there makes nights here even more epic of late. Its impressive #72 spot in our Culture subcategory speaks to this year’s packed events calendar—ranging from the annual Celtic Connections festival to August’s UCI Cycling World Championships, hyped as the largest cycling event in history. Next year’s dance card is fuller still.

62. Shanghai

Within the dynamic metropolis of Shanghai, contrasts unfold. On one side of the Huangpu River lies the refined Puxi district, housing the city’s Art Deco architectural marvels, the waterfront Bund promenade and traditional Chinese gardens. On the opposing side, the Pudong area showcases its mind-boggling, otherworldly skyscrapers. Shanghai today is a major global hub for everything from finance, business, research, technology and manufacturing to arts and culture. It’s also home to the world’s busiest container port. Challenges abound, from air pollution to impoverished slums, and a growing vulnerability to rising sea levels. Nevertheless, the city scores high for Livability (#21), while struggling in Prosperity (#139: yes, billionaire residents notwithstanding). Shanghai’s vision for tomorrow therefore extends to transforming itself into an innovative hub for future industries, with aspirations to achieve an output value of 500 billion yuan ($69.7 billion) by 2030. The “Shanghai 2035” plan, approved by state council, envisions a metropolis characterized by innovation, humanity, sustainability and global influence—effectively putting the city on a rising path by focusing on onboarding more citizens into the ever-sprouting skyscrapers they look up at daily (at least when the smog clears).

63. Rio de Janeiro

Most notably recognized for its extravagant festivities leading up to Carnival, Rio boasts an unmistakable exotic flair: a lifestyle of beach leisure, vibrant nightlife, alluring samba rhythms and a more unhurried way of life. The ever-popular Copacabana and Ipanema beaches cater to sun worshippers, while the city houses numerous free museums and cultural centers for art aficionados (together ranking in the Top 10 in our Culture subcategory). Outside the city, the mountains and Tijuca National Forest beckon adventurous souls, ranking the city #7 for Outdoors. Despite its rougher edges, Rio has left behind its era of widespread crime—even the favelas, the city’s brightly painted shanty-town communities, now offer an engrossing setting for cultural immersion. The city will continue to be one of the most lovable places in the world—this year it ranks #21—and its local government is making every effort to make it more livable and prosperous, too. The urban renewal is just beginning: Rio envisions itself as a leader in mitigating and adapting to climate change by achieving climate neutrality by 2050. It’s also on the road to establishing itself as a circular economy, integrating economic, social and urban-environmental policies for waste management.

64. Auckland

With the reopening of New Zealand to travelers, there’s no better time to discover Auckland. In many ways it is New Zealand’s most modern city, with its skyscrapers, modern business centers and a downtown packed with reinvigorated clubs and art galleries. But it’s also built on top of dormant volcanoes, with most of its charm showcased in pristine beaches and twin harbors facing the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea. It naturally ranks #9 for Outdoors. Commercial Bay stands out as a recent addition that has brought about a revolutionary shift in the retail and hospitality landscape of Auckland’s Central Business District. Another highlight is the revitalized Viaduct Harbour, boasting a selection of new high-end hotels. Additionally, the Britomart precinct has undergone a meticulous industrial-to-modern metamorphosis spanning two decades. As a result, Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland’s Māori name (meaning “the place desired by many”), is bulging at the seams, and is projected to host nearly half of New Zealand’s current population by 2048. Despite the challenges of overcrowding and homelessness, Auckland is moving quickly, taking lessons from other global cities and ranking #45 in our overall Livability category as a result.

65. Atlanta

Long a progressive beacon of diversity in Georgia, Atlanta and its rich legacy of American civil rights—the city is the birthplace of Martin Luther King Jr.—is increasingly in the national conversation as a new hometown. And people are walking the talk, with almost a quarter of a million relocating to the city over the past two years. Even more are mulling their options, indicated by ATL’s #27 Google Search and Top 25 ranking for Instagram Hashtags. Good thing the city—already home to the 24th-most Global 500 headquarters on the planet—is planning for the influx, with bold new projects downtown, like the 50-acre Gulch redevelopment called Centennial Yards, featuring 12 million square feet of residential, retail and office space and 1,500 hotel rooms. Just east, along Peachtree, Mitchell and Broad streets, as well as on Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, dozens of historic buildings are being revived with a focus on public spaces and walkability. Even Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (from which 80% of the U.S. population resides within a two-hour flight) is renovating, despite already ranking #15 for Airport Connectivity. Its ATL Next project is pumping $6 billion into modernization.

66. Houston

Austin may get the attention, but the promise of the Lone Star State drawing Californians and New Yorkers is quietly being fulfilled in Houston. In the past year, immigration both domestic and international has swelled the metro population to above seven million and the city today is one of America’s most ethnically diverse metropolises, with more than 145 languages spoken at home, according to the latest census—about even with New York. No wonder it ranks #27 for Culture and its prism of festivals, from international film to massive Juneteenth celebrations. Next year, the city welcomes America’s first Ismaili Center, commissioned by His Highness the Aga Khan. In addition to all its Lovability bonafides (H-Town ranks #38), the fourth-largest city in the U.S. is aiming higher, way higher, with its ongoing evolution as Space City. Its Houston Spaceport is an FAA-licensed urban commercial spaceport offering unprecedented access to a thriving aerospace community. The head start the city has in building a cluster of aerospace companies manufacturing locally is staggering, especially considering that the spaceport can eventually serve as the country’s takeoff point for passenger jets capable of flying at supersonic and hypersonic speeds.

The “Miami of South Korea” is a sought-after vacation spot for local and global travelers alike, boasting stunning beaches that are absent in the landlocked capital. Among its must-visit landmarks are the remarkable Shinsegae Centum City Busan, the world’s largest department store, and the thrill-inducing Lotte World Adventure Busan, the largest amusement park in Korea. Playing a pivotal role in its economy, the Port of Busan serves as a crucial conduit, linking the nation to the Pacific Ocean and the wider Asia region. As South Korea’s primary port (and the fourth-largest container port in the world), it manages approximately 40% of the country’s overseas freight, 80% of its container shipments and 40% of its total fishery output. The city’s eighth-lowest poverty rate on earth powers its overall #17 Prosperity ranking. Busan isn’t stopping there: it’s in the running to host World Expo 2030 and is actively cultivating its identity as a cryptocurrency hub. Simultaneously, the city is emerging as a thriving convention center and an emerging “bleisure” (business + leisure) destination. Adding to the intrigue, the upcoming Oceanix floating city prototype, scheduled for completion by 2025, is solidifying Busan’s reputation as a noteworthy player in the region.

68. Philadelphia

Given its deep roots in the creation of the Union almost 250 years ago, Philadelphia is a dense, cataloged embodiment of Americana, easily accessible and eagerly shared. Philly has always let its experiences do the talking, whether it’s walking through history along the cobblestones of Old City or breathing in the urban green of Fairmount Park. The city’s understated urban tapestry houses the planet’s #56-ranked Sights & Landmarks, perfect for exploring by foot—a ranking that will only improve with the extensive development of the multiuse Delaware River Trail that links the city’s waterfront destinations. Those in need of more regimented history will love some of the top museums in the U.S. (ranked #41), especially with recent investments like the 90,000 square feet of new public and exhibition space at the Philadelphia Museum of Art as part of the Frank Gehry-led expansion. Important exhibits opened this summer and fall, none bigger than Disney100 and SPACE at the Franklin Institute, and Black Founders: The Forten Family of Philadelphia at the Museum of the American Revolution. The city’s coveted University of Pennsylvania is an Ivy League icon, ranked #9 globally and keeping the local talent pipeline stocked.

Even by European second-city status, Naples is overlooked and underestimated—both by international visitors and by Italy’s power centers. The city’s three millennia of existence make it one of Europe’s oldest—with the accompanying layers of beauty, conflict and lore ( grazie , Elena Ferrante). Naples ranks in the Top 5 globally in our Outdoors subcategory, buoyed by the city’s historic waterfront, nearby beaches and green spaces ranging from swaths of urban parkland to secret public gardens. Napoli also ranks #5 for Sights & Landmarks—its centuries-old Naples Cathedral rivals any other in the sensual feast that is Italy. Like in Rome and Istanbul, strolling here reveals forgotten history on every block. Despite the city’s long association with mafia, tourism has doubled over the past decade, and crime has dropped dramatically (being now more confined to the “victim knew the suspect” variety), according to local sources. New international investments (like the W Naples opening next year inside a historic bank building on the kinetic Piazza del Municipio) are finally reaching one of the continent’s most beguiling cities. With Tripadvisor Reviews ranking #27 globally, a new high-speed rail link to Rome’s Fiumicino airport is increasingly delivering curious first-timers to la città .

With its second-city affordability and coveted lifestyle brand at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, Denver is an increasingly wealthy, healthy talent magnet. It ranks in the Top 25 globally for educated citizenry, who ply their trades at large Global 500 firms (ranked #62) ranging from Western Union to Molson Coors Beverage, and at the hundreds of start-ups in the emergent cannabis and burgeoning wellness industries. All that commerce propels the city to #23 for GDP per Capita. But Denver plays as hard as it works. Amid 300 days of annual sunshine, the obsession with the outdoors today is matched by a commitment to the arts. The Denver Art Museum is slowly emerging from an extensive, multi-year renovation that includes a new restaurant from award-winning Denver chef Jennifer Jasinski, and the return of the museum’s Arts of Africa, Modern and Contemporary Art and Arts of Oceania collections to the public for the first time since construction started in 2016. Investments like the Crush Walls international street art festival and the arrival of the artist collective Meow Wolf are rapidly improving the city’s #62 Culture ranking globally.

71. Nashville

The home base for artists like Jack White, Kings of Leon and the Black Keys reclaimed its live-music glory with a full slate of before-times festivals like the CMA Fest and Bonnaroo, as well as new shows and attractions. The buzziest is the duet between the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the historic Ryman Auditorium that created the Rock Hall at the Ryman exhibit celebrating one of America’s most revered stages, including stories about Elvis Presley, James Brown, Dolly Parton, the Foo Fighters and dozens more. The 2021 opening of the National Museum of African American Music—a vital center to educate the world, preserve a legacy and celebrate African Americans in creating the American soundtrack—is just one reason why Nashville ranks an impressive #34 in our Culture category. Massive developments like the new home of the Nashville SC Major League Soccer team in Wedgewood-Houston—a 30,500-seat soccer-only facility with double-tiered stands—join the city-building ambition behind the opening of more than a dozen hotels over the next two years and a massive expansion of the city’s airport as business returns to the world’s #16-ranked convention center.

72. Manchester

Manchester’s reputation as the engine of English industry drives a global curiosity in the storied city (and its worker-bee icon is a must-buy souvenir). Castlefield, an “Urban Heritage Park,” is one portal into history: the city’s canal, favored by tourists today, once transported coal into the city’s industrial hub. More urban reuse is planned. The University of Manchester is among the highest ranked in Europe (and #33 globally in our rankings), which more than justifies its UNESCO City of Literature designation. The university is home to a dazzling legacy of 25 Nobel laureates, with several still on staff. Manchester’s conversion from producing goods to ideas is well underway, and the history of the workers who made that possible is on grand display at the People’s History Museum. The city’s middling Museums ranking is supercharged with this year’s £15-million transformation that adds a two-story extension, a new exhibition hall, the Belonging Gallery, the South Asia Gallery and the Lee Kai Hung Chinese Culture Gallery to the Manchester Museum. Also new is Factory International, a flagship cultural center with exhibits by Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama. No wonder Manchester is in the Top 50 globally for Tripadvisor Reviews.

It’s not only city sloganeering that’s big in Dallas. It’s economic reality. Home to more than 10,000 corporate headquarters—the largest concentration in the U.S.—and ranking in the Top 20 (#19) on the planet for Global 500 Companies, the city is easy to get to. Dallas Fort Worth International Airport ranks #9, with a planned $3-billion Terminal F project possibly back on the table, given DFW’s rebound of 73.4 million passengers in 2022—an increase of 17% over a busy 2021. The #46 ranking in our Convention Center subcategory will ascend when a new $2-billion, 2.5-million-square-foot facility is built next to the current one in 2028. The same year should see the trenching of the city’s car-worshipping Interstate 345 that cut off Black neighborhoods when it was built in the early 1970s. But Dallas is big on fun and culture, too. This is the home of America’s sixth-largest LGBTQIA+ community. On 20 square blocks of mixed-use space, institutions like the Dallas Museum of Art, the Crow Museum of Asian Art, theaters, and symphony and opera venues all power an improving #61 Culture ranking.

74. Liverpool

Liverpool’s place as an integral urban center in world history is difficult to comprehend without visiting it yourself. Fortunately, Liverpool documents it all masterfully—and honestly. The city’s role as a strategic British Empire trade port, responsible for half of Britain’s Trans-Atlantic slave trade, is laid bare at its International Slavery Museum. Its contribution to helping win both world wars with tens of thousands of Liverpudlians enlisting (plus its own strategic location) is outlined in the Western Approaches Museum, housed in a hidden bunker under the city. But it was in its post-war decline that Liverpool made history again when four local teenagers jammed together. Today, The Beatles Story is the world’s largest permanent exhibit devoted to the band. Almost as revered is Liverpool FC, the U.K.’s most storied club, and Anfield stadium, their home since 1892. Given these layers of history, the city’s #8 ranking for Sights & Landmarks isn’t surprising. Expect the city to rise up our future rankings as the new Waterfront Transformation Project reimagines the historic area as part of a 10-year masterplan featuring a pyramidal pavilion for contemplation by architect Asif Khan and artist Theaster Gates.

75. Minneapolis

Minneapolis is now synonymous with George Floyd’s murder at the hands of local police, an event that sparked a global movement against systemic racism and police violence. Residents have long advocated for their city, the results of which can be seen in a decade of visionary city-building called the Minneapolis Big Build. The city is in the thick of an unprecedented renaissance, with more than $1-billion worth of annual construction permits issued in each of the past four years. The investment has yielded (so far) the redesign of Nicollet Avenue, the opening of U.S. Bank Stadium and the Commons Park, a major reno of Target Center (home of the NBA’s Timberwolves) and improvements to the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden and Walker Art Center. There are a dozen more projects that have opened or will soon, including the new Water Works Park on the Mississippi riverfront. This, on top of a somewhat surprising #24 ranking for Global 500 Companies—the most per capita of any U.S. metro area—and an ambitious citizenry that ranks #23 globally for Educational Attainment powering a global #26 GDP per Capita ranking, it’s no surprise this Midwest magnet lands #32 globally in our overall Prosperity index.

76. Mexico City

The Ciudad de México , CDMX, is having a major moment—one that’s raising its profile on the world stage. Alongside classic street food, culinary virtuosos like Enrique Olvera of Pujol and Jorge Vallejo of Quintonil thrive. The cultural legacy of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera remains indelible, but has been enhanced by the Soumaya and the Museo Jumex, raising the city’s global Museums ranking to #13. Not even tequila is immune to progress, having to compete with artisanal mezcal distilleries that spring up on an almost monthly basis. Mexico City is changing—fast—and resident chilangos are rushing to keep up with it. They’re the ones literally paying the price for the accelerated gentrification of neighborhoods like La Condesa and La Roma Norte—which have sent real estate prices soaring, forcing many to relocate to the outskirts. It’s still a highly lovable city though, ranking at #45. In contrast, Prosperity is a lowly #137, with forecasts that the economy will likely slow in step with an expected moderation of growth in the United States. The local hope is that any decline could be tempered by increased investment from U.S. reshoring initiatives and companies relocating to the Latin American country.

Minsk—and Belarus—are fighting for their lives. While the rest of the world was preoccupied with the pandemic in the summer of 2020, Russian-backed dictator Alexander Lukashenko “won” another election with apparent overwhelming support. Allegations of rigging (again) sent hundreds of thousands into protests all over the country—but mostly in Minsk. The suppression of dissent by secret masked police, combined with the jailing of opposition leader Maria Kalesnikava (in a Russian penal colony) all point to ongoing volatility in this fascinating city. Of course, Russia’s meddling went next-level with its invasion of Ukraine and the automatic inclusion of the Belarusian regime as its puppet ally and most recently a safe harbor for Wagner mercenaries. With the second-most educated citizens globally, the hunger for change is ravenous in a place where you shouldn’t drink the tap water or speak your mind freely. The city itself is frozen in time: it was almost entirely rebuilt after its destruction by the Nazis in WWII via post-war Soviet urban planning, and little has changed since. When Russian authoritarianism eventually crumbles in the region, citizens of Minsk, already tops for Labor Force Participation, are poised to reimagine their city as the next great European capital.

A Roman city founded more than two millennia ago, Lyon is to be savored nose to tail, past to future, literally and figuratively. If the city’s middling Attractions (#73) and Museums (#137) rankings rise with the plentiful planned investment, that’s just icing on the gâteau. Locals are buzzing about the new OL Vallée leisure center (although it’s a lot more than that). Yes, there’s the massive gym and semi-Olympic pool, but also five indoor soccer pitches, a 32-lane bowling alley, escape rooms and the City Surf Park. More new investment is pouring into La Confluence, a 370-acre urban redevelopment that not only brings together Lyon’s two fabled rivers—the Rhône and the Saône—but also gives new life to an industrial urban wasteland. Most notable in the new development’s crown is the Musée des Confluences, an architectural enigma glittering at the very point where the rivers meet, with an outstretched park disappearing into the flows. Lyon also takes care of business with its #4-ranked convention center in the heart of the Renzo Piano-designed Cité Internationale, and is poised to develop its future talent in-house, with the Université de Lyon among the finest in France.

79. Portland

Portland’s blissful isolation, ambivalence toward norms and self-sustainability have long made it one of the most earnest cities in the U.S. Portlanders are among the most engaged urbanites on the planet, and have always built it themselves if they couldn’t find anything to their liking—from performance outdoor apparel like Columbia and Nike to hospitality brands like Ace and McMenamins. Their #12 global ranking for GDP per Capita, therefore, is no surprise. But the urban utopia of recent decades was ravaged by the pandemic, with homelessness spiking by almost 70%, vehicle theft almost doubling and shootings tripling, all since 2019. The population shrank for the first time in decades in 2021. Portlanders are fighting for the city’s inclusive livability and identity, one that still boasts almost 100 breweries (among the most per capita in the U.S.) and boundary-pushing nightlife and shopping that ranks in the Top 50 globally. New public projects prioritizing bikes and pedestrians are everywhere, none more Portland than the new Ned Flanders Crossing pedestrian bridge, in honor of native son and The Simpsons creator Matt Groening. A 35-story Ritz-Carlton, the city’s first five-star hotel, is scheduled to open by late 2023.

80. Rotterdam

The urban post-war rebuild wasn’t exactly equal in the Netherlands. Take Rotterdam: re-engineered to provide Europe with its largest port. Today, it still does. Fittingly, the city was also saddled with the continent’s largest red-light district. These days, you can start there, in the once-dingy Katendrecht neighborhood, to witness Rotterdam’s current ascent. It’s now the city’s culinary heart, with its Deliplein Square, an outdoor dining room ringed by restaurants, and the Fenix Food Factory, packed with stalls, a local brewery and workshops in a waterfront warehouse. Watch the city’s high-100s Restaurants ranking pop in the coming years. Rotterdam is also Europe’s design and architecture hot spot. Places like the Wilhelminakade district, the steamship embarkation point for U.S.-bound Dutch émigrés, is today home to towers designed by Álvaro Siza, Norman Foster and local starchitect Rem Koolhaas. There’s even an all-timber floating office building moored nearby. What rising sea levels? Sustainable architecture elsewhere includes the air-filtering Smog Free Tower and the Windwheel (you’ll have to see it to believe it, in 2025). With that kind of office space, no wonder the city’s workers boast the world’s third-highest ranking for Labor Force Participation.

Skyscrapers soar next to sprawling barrios, hipster shops and restaurants make their presence felt in the gritty neighborhoods and a once-overwhelming crime rate is dwindling. This is the new Bogotá: part cosmopolitan city, part couture hub and all charm. The sophisticated center, La Candelaria, welcomes tourists with its cobblestone alleyways (small wonder the city’s Walk Score ties for tops among all global cities), colonial buildings, 300-year-old houses and a collection of Baroque and neoclassical churches and cathedrals. But, in recent years, Bogotá has staked its claim in the design world, too, consciously leading a slow fashion movement. It’s a natural extension of Bogotanos’ artistic identity and complements the country’s existing commitment to preserving folkloric handicrafts. It’s not just sustainable fashion that the city is aiming for, it’s sustainable everything . Colombia’s capital is aiming for net zero by 2050, and the Séptima Green Corridor initiative aims to better integrate the city’s transport network, part of a broader effort to cut climate-changing emissions and pollution. Change is slow, and not without its challenges, but Bogotanos and smitten visitors love the city (it ranks #48 in our overall Lovability index) and are doing the work to raise its ascendant profile on the world stage.

Few cities in Eastern Europe boast more historical significance than Kraków. Largely spared from Second World War bombing, the city features ancient urban gems ranging from the Wawel Royal Castle perched on a hill in all its Gothic-meets-Renaissance glory to the Cloth Hall, which, built in the 1200s, could vie for Europe’s oldest shopping center. It’s why the city is increasingly a destination for Europeans looking for new urban holidays, with its #22-ranked Attractions and #32-ranked Museums, soon bolstered by this spring’s opening of a new home for the Museum of Contemporary Art overlooking the Vistula River. Like in Warsaw, foreign investment is everywhere. Ryanair recently announced a €750-million expansion of its Kraków operations while Google continues to invest. Volvo Cars should open an entirely new tech hub to drive electrification by the end of 2023, noting the need to beat competitors to Kraków’s untapped talent pool. The investment will create an estimated 500 to 600 local jobs. Office and residential investment is also pouring in, with global real estate developer Panattoni, Finland’s YIT and Hungarian developer Echo Investment all building this decade. A new priority building bike infrastructure powers Kraków to #6 globally.

83. Valencia

Spain’s third-largest city has always flown under the radar for non-Europeans. Emerging from a harrowing pandemic, the city was named the 2022 World Design Capital by the World Design Organization. Its reasoning? “With impressive urban infrastructures that coexist harmoniously with the natural and built environment, the city has become a leading example of effective and strategic use of design in public policy.” We can’t argue. Ranking #19 in our Sights & Landmarks subcategory, Valencia is going all in on sustainability, building on 1,200 acres of carbon-absorbing urban gardens like Jardines del Real/Viveros and the city’s 10 miles of European Blue Flag–status beaches. Its new Parque Central unveiled 25 acres of green space and tree canopy on top of a reused rail yard last year. Amazingly, Valencia also just became the first city in the world to verify its carbon emissions from tourist activity. Look it up—it’s a big deal. This is also the home of the City of Arts and Sciences and the site of Europe’s largest aquarium, and its new CaixaForum history museum will improve the city’s underrated museum reputation.

84. Santiago

Located in the middle of a valley, surrounded by mountains and crossed by a river, Santiago—Chile’s capital—is probably the only place in the world where you can ski down the Andes at sunrise, then surf in the Pacific by sunset. This eclectic mix of old and new is home to emerging artists, intrepid travelers and hotshot chefs, all looking for inspiration from this elemental landscape. But it’s not all sunny. In the previous year, confronted by an unrelenting and historic 13-year drought, Chile took the unprecedented step of introducing a water rationing plan in Santiago, while crime rates, pollution and an evident neglect in public space investments persist. As economic projections for the nation appear somewhat diminished—though there is a glimmer of optimism for a resurgence in 2024—its poverty rate (#171) is abhorrent. Nonetheless, the reopening of China’s markets is expected to offer a brief respite, lending a helping hand to the national economy despite mining strikes and the specter of inflation and higher interest rates. Despite these hurdles, there’s a positive outlook for the country’s hospitality sector, with a moderate influx of new establishments in the pipeline for its capital.

85. Birmingham

Birmingham (or “Brum”), the largest city in the West Midlands and second-largest in England, has inspired both industry and imagination throughout the centuries. The area’s rich coal and iron deposits fueled its ascent as a vital engine for the British Empire, resulting in some of the fastest urban growth on the planet in the 19th century. At the same time, its economic success provided a ringside opportunity to assess the true cost of all that progress long before such things were questioned. J.R.R. Tolkien grew up here, and the author often cited his childhood adventures in the West Midlands countryside as the inspiration for Middle Earth. No wonder the city ranks #48 in our Sights & Landmarks subcategory. Or that the Birmingham Library is the largest public library in Europe. Fellow Birmingham cultural analysts Black Sabbath shared their own local inspiration with the world a half-century later. Beyond the cultural clout of the region (Shakespeare’s birthplace, Stratford-upon-Avon, is a 40-minute train ride south), the city today is as entrepreneurial as you’d find in the U.K., with business finally back at the #36-ranked convention center and a talent pipeline stocked by it eponymous #42-ranked uni.

86. New Orleans

In the face of poverty and injustice—and “natural” disasters compounded by both—NOLA has, over its three centuries, created a culture of presence, music and festivals. They may pale in size but not in intensity compared to others in the world. It’s why the city ranks in the Top 50 globally in our overall Lovability index, which includes Nightlife (#18), Shopping (#23) and Tripadvisor Reviews (#25). But the city works as hard as it plays, ranking #22 in GDP per Capita (even more impressive when you consider the post-Katrina exodus over the past two decades). And things are busy in the Crescent City. The French Quarter may be touristy, but the investment continues with the One11, the area’s first new hotel in 50 years. A new Four Seasons Hotel and Residences opened in the former World Trade Center, followed by local icon and men’s clothing store Rubenstein’s turning their second floor into an eponymous 40-room boutique property. The city’s Top 25 Museums ranking will improve with the Warehouse District’s new Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience, along with this summer’s massive new Audubon Aquarium of Americas and Insectarium opening right on the Mississippi adjacent to the French Quarter.

87. Bucharest

Bucharest is your suggestion to well-traveled acquaintances who’ve been “everywhere” in Europe. More than three decades after it left the Iron Curtain, Romania’s capital is finally getting the attention it’s sought since the ’90s. Culturally endowed, historically vital and gastronomically mind-blowing, no wonder the city was just named tops in Europe for digital nomads based on a study by Panache Cruises, driven by its tech infrastructure and affordability. (Apparently, one can live like a count for $1,500 per month, all in.) The #36 Attractions ranking is demonstrative that the Old World beckons here, despite Soviet-backed dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu’s zealous bulldozing of centuries-old architecture. Must-sees include the Arcul de Triumf, and of course the ornate beer halls that rival those of Vienna. Foreign investment is picking up, inspired by locally born software and robotics company UiPath, which went public with a $1.3-billion software IPO on the NYSE in 2021, one of the largest in U.S. history. Local culinary talent is also returning, following chefs like Alex Petricean (formerly of Copenhagen’s Noma) and London talent Radu Ionescu. No wonder that work ethic among the citizenry ranks Bucharest at #36 for GDP per Capita and #46 for Labor Force Participation.

The U.K.’s fourth-largest city finally gets to reap the fruits of its labor after it lost its European Capital of Culture bid on a post-Brexit technicality in 2017. City leaders applied some Yorkshire pragmatism, got their £10 million bid money matched and launched their own year of culture, called Leeds 2023. January kicked off with concerts, a literary festival and a senior storytelling initiative. The celebration builds on a legacy of cultural programming (ranked #98 globally and sure to improve), powered by a storied nightlife (an impressive #41) supported by six (six!) local universities and a proud ’90s past of bringing acid house dance music to the world. The ongoing Back to Basics weekly club night, launched in 1991, claims to be Europe’s longest-running, while downtown’s Mojo bar has been making foggy memories since 1996. New spots helping shape the city include the Viaduct Showbar, an LGBTQIA+ hot spot. The deep culture also resonates outdoors, and Roundhay Park, with its 285 hectares of lakes, forests, playgrounds and cafés (and the occasional Rolling Stones, Madonna or U2 show), is one of Europe’s largest urban green spaces.

Nestled snugly between the imposing Hajar Mountains and the graceful expanse of the Gulf of Oman, Muscat emerges as an unequivocal haven for aficionados of history. The Omani capital paints an exquisite tableau of architectural splendor, with iconic landmarks such as the Al Alam Palace and the mosaic-adorned Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque dotting its landscape. Zealously dedicated to the art of preservation, Muscat shows a commitment that extends even to its contemporary skyline, where modern structures showcase traditional domes, arabesque windows and other hallmarks of heritage. While Muscat’s reputation as a weekend escape from Dubai might be firmly established, the city’s aspirations reach far beyond as it embarks on a transformative journey to becoming a leisure destination. Tourism developments bloom in alignment with Oman Vision 2040, particularly with the opening of the illustrious Jumeirah Muscat Bay, the imminent arrival of the Four Seasons Resort and Private Residences, and the highly anticipated Hotel Indigo in Jebel Akhdar. Of course this latent luxury isn’t surprising in a place with one of the lowest poverty rates on the planet and that ranks in the Top 5 for GDP per Capita.

Canada’s capital has long lived in the shadow of its bigger-city siblings, Toronto and Montreal. But a national 150th birthday in 2017 brought attention to the citizens (ranking an astonishing #6 globally for Educational Attainment) of a city where one in four is an immigrant. All that brainpower has poured into almost 2,000 knowledge-based businesses—everything from cleantech and life sciences to aerospace. Tens of thousands of new jobs are the result—along with a #38 ranking in global Poverty Rate (the lower the number, the better). In a city with a relatively low cost of living (although house prices are ascending, as with most Canadian cities), that means money to spend on the #59-ranked Attractions, which increasingly (and finally) prioritize Indigenous reconciliation. Mādahòkì Farm (meaning “share the land” in Algonquin Anishinaabe) is a new agritourism venture out of the Canadian Museum of History where Indigenous communities can reconnect with the land through healing and wellness programs and social enterprise. The city’s understated outdoor bounty is also a growing priority, with the newly renovated NCC River House in the Rockcliffe area doing its best Helsinki impression, and Westboro Beach being restored for swimming.

91. Cologne

Despite aesthetic riches like the twin-spired Cologne Cathedral, which rises above the historic buildings of the city’s Old Town, and the cultural bounty of places like the Museum Ludwig with its 20th-century art, the perception of the city lags behind its virtues. Cologne ranks cruelly low in our Sights & Landmarks (#55), Culture (#92) and Museums (#128) subcategories. That last one hurts, given the range of museums in town, from Middle Age riches at the Schnütgen, classics at the Wallraf-Richartz and the Picassos and more modern marvels at the Museum Ludwig. The city even has its own beer, Kölsch. Its global ascent is inevitable, especially with both Germans and international visitors rediscovering the city—like the more than one million who attended the restarted Pride parade in 2022. In addition to its overlooked cultural bounty, Cologne is also a regional business powerhouse and destination, powered by its Top 25-ranked convention center and fueled by citizens ranked #55 for Labor Force Participation. It’s also home to Lufthansa, traditionally the second-largest airline in Europe, which should help draw new head offices post-pandemic.

92. Charlotte

America’s Old South is up to new tricks in Charlotte, a global banking powerhouse (the second-most important in the U.S. after New York) and ranked #24 in our Global 500 Companies subcategory. All that productivity comes with relative housing affordability, and combined with its #56-ranked GDP per Capita, it’s no wonder the city ranks #73 globally in our overall Prosperity index. Charlotte is building on the good thing it has going: the already walkable downtown recently extended its east-to-west hybrid streetcar system that runs an impressive four miles over 17 stops. The city is further investing in its economic innovation with massive projects like the medical school campus and an innovation district called The Pearl, funded by Atrium Health and Wake Forest Baptist—26 acres in Midtown that will help position Charlotte as a destination for research and innovation and create thousands of jobs this decade alone. But with 1,000 apartments, a hotel, restaurants and bars, the project will be a destination, too. As will a former Sears department store that reopened last year as the Visual and Performing Arts Center, a new home to dozens of galleries, studios, theaters and classrooms.

93. Calgary

Although Toronto is Canada’s business heart, it’s Calgary—with one of the country’s youngest populations and home to its oil-industry-forged entrepreneurialism—that’s always been the challenger. The city has long been home to the most Americans per capita in Canada and is increasingly the destination of choice for immigrants. Ranking #31 globally in our GDP per Capita subcategory, by far the highest in Canada, the city is now slowly emerging from a near decade of economic hardship (its fortunes rise and fall with the price of crude). The pandemic added to the misery, which manifested into high unemployment and sky-high downtown office vacancies. In typical Calgarian pragmatism, rapid residential conversions of office towers are today inspiring places like Manhattan, and the resulting housing affordability is driving a massive population boom as Canada jacks up immigration with chronically low supply in its urban centers. New projects, like the recently opened Central Library in the burgeoning cultural hub of East Village, reinforce the city’s long-lauded quality of life that awaits arrivals (and engages a curious citizenry ranked #21 globally for Educational Attainment). A half-dozen new hotels are keeping returning business travelers happy.

Completely rebuilt after the bombings of the Second World War, today’s Nagoya boasts modern architectural marvels and opulent department stores, leaving no doubt that it ranks among Japan’s wealthiest cities. With its rich historical significance as the birthplace of the first Shogun, Minamoto Yoritomo, and the origins of the Three Unifiers—Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi and the Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu—Nagoya beckons with some of Japan’s most underrated must-see attractions. The city ranks #135 for global Attractions, which speaks to the city’s obscure tourist bounty: three Toyota museums (the automotive giant launched here), the SCMaglev and Railway Park museum, which celebrated 150 years of rail travel in the country last year, and a science museum featuring one of the world’s largest planetariums. Last year the world’s inaugural Studio Ghibli theme park opened as a 200-acre, five-theme ode to several of the studio’s most beloved movies. Then, of course, there’s the food culture that’s helped the city rank #4 globally for Restaurants, characterized as comfort food that balances sweetness with spices—with miso playing a starring role in any and every dish, and unagi a popular protein. With its #13-ranked Labor Force Participation, Nagoya enjoys a high overall Prosperity ranking (#46).

95. Dusseldorf

Düsseldorf has the special blend that makes an efficient, prosperous city perform for its residents and visitors. Take the Messe Düsseldorf, the city’s convention center (ranked #29 globally). Several Global 500 firms are here (#33), attracting residents and placing Düsseldorf at an impressive #44 in Labor Force Participation by its citizenry. New talent is welcomed by an understated multiculturalism (including Germany’s largest Japanese community, in the Immermannstrasse area), and the capital of the North Rhine-Westphalia state’s plentiful job opportunities. The small but mighty cultural scene (ranked #138 but poised for big things) supports more than 100 galleries, and Joseph Beuys, the sculptor and performance artist, is a local icon almost 40 years after his death. The Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen museum is home to important classical and contemporary European art collections, performances and screenings. The architecture at MedienHafen—a waterfront development juxtaposing old with new—boasts buildings and hotels by Frank Gehry, David Chipperfield, Jo Coenen, Steven Holl and Claude Vasconi alongside restored historic warehouses that maintain the industrial port character of the Rhine River shoreline.

Although not as expansive or bustling as Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi offers a plethora of activities and attractions, from urban landmarks (you haven’t seen Hanoi unless it’s through the glass-bottom terrace of the Lotte Center observation deck), chaotic markets for bargain hunters, awe-inspiring heritage structures like the Imperial Citadel—a UNESCO World Heritage site—and a vibrant nightlife that holds its own charm. However, many of Vietnam’s endemic problems persist in the city—government bans on independent labor unions, human rights groups and political parties; police intimidation; restricted movement; arbitrary arrests; unfair trials; and imprisonment are some of the challenges. Small wonder, then, that the city is near the bottom of our list, with Livability at #61 and Prosperity at #184. Still, Vietnam’s economy has proven its resilience amid challenges in the global economy—growth is projected at 4.7% in the second half of 2023. What’s more, according to the Vietnam News Agency, the Hanoi hospitality market is expected to boom; there are plans for an additional 66 new projects with more than 11,000 hotel rooms. Out of these, 61% are five-star hotels—making the city ready to host the world (and coveted business travel).

97. Gothenburg

Sweden’s second city is wrapping up a three-year celebration of its 400th birthday (2021–2023). When you’re the second-smallest city by population in our Top 100 (trailing only Dublin), you’re allowed. This under-the-radar European city has always done things its own way. There’s birthday storytelling, like Gothenburg Stories, the main installation of the city museum, showcasing interviews with 100 locals. There’s massive sustainable infrastructure, like the expansion of Jubileumsparken (Centenary Park). There’s the Hisingsbron vertical-lift bridge, which rises to accommodate river traffic, allowing residents to bike and walk safely over the Göta River. There are ambitious new attractions, from the completely renovated Gothenburg Maritime Museum and Aquarium to rollercoasters in the new Luna Park at Liseberg amusement park. A half-dozen high-profile hotels have opened over the past 18 months, from the Jacy’z skyscraper resort to the 451-room Scandic Göteborg Central and Clarion Hotel the Pier, built by Chinese automotive company Geely (owners of Gothenburg-based Volvo) next to their innovation center, called Uni3. Its citizens boast the #28-ranked Labor Force Participation on the planet, as part of its #60 rank in our overall Prosperity index.

98. Sapporo

A first-timer on our list, Sapporo is one of Japan’s newest and most orderly cities. With little in the way of traditional architecture, it lacks in that unique “Japanese-ness” of places like Tokyo and Kyoto, but makes up for it with opportunities for summer road trips and snowy winter adventures (don’t miss the ice sculptures on Susukino and the castles and manga characters made of snow—with stops at the Sapporo Clock Tower and the open-air Historical Village of Hokkaido along the way). Of course, no visit to the city would be complete without stops at the Sapporo Beer Museum and the Asahi brewery, followed by a leisurely karaoke crawl around the bars of Susukino. Sapporo also has plenty of open-air hot-spring baths, or rotenburo—Tsukisamu Onsen, next to the Sapporo Dome stadium, is just one of many—and major department stores, like Daimaru, Mitsukoshi and the Tanukikoji Arcade lining the 1,700-foot underground pedestrian passage. The city’s position as an IT and logistics hub is powered by a citizenry ranked #27 for their Labor Force Participation and #41 for Educational Attainment.

Bilbao, in the heart of Basque Country in northern Spain, last year celebrated 25 years since the 1997 opening of the Guggenheim Bilbao, the Frank Gehry-designed titanium-clad museum that made the city, and its architect, global icons. Proudly one of Europe’s smaller urban centers, Bilbao revels under the cover of its own relative obscurity and isolation, creating its own magnetism. Sure, the Guggenheim’s destination architecture still draws hundreds of thousands annually, but as one of Europe’s most welcoming cities (tied for #1 globally for its Walk Score and ranking #19 for its biking infrastructure), Bilbao is building an accessible hometown full of new green spaces and sustainability-minded housing—with other daring new waves of architecture, like Santiago Calatrava’s Zubizuri Bridge and Bilbao Airport, and Zaha Hadid’s redevelopment of the old port area. Design-forward Bilbao is also emerging as a stealthy, affordable business headquarters, ranking #43 for Global 500 companies in town, including multinational electric utility company Iberdrola and financial giant BBVA. The world is watching this urban dynamo, especially as it hosted the launch of the Tour de France cycling race this past summer in balmy splendor while the rest of Southern Europe sweltered.

100. Baltimore

Less than an hour’s commute from Washington, D.C., Baltimore offers a slower pace of life and significantly cheaper housing than the hyper-charged capital. But the window to buy into one of Baltimore’s diverse, historic communities is closing fast—home prices in the city reached a 10-year record high a year into the pandemic and have only fallen slightly since. No wonder the city’s beguiling urban pockets and dipping crime rates are attracting visitors and curious potential residents seeking unvarnished American urbanism and some of the country’s best museums (ranked #71 globally). According to Q4 2022 numbers, the city’s downtown is back to 95% of pre-pandemic activity. Good thing, too, because the signature placemaking investment is finally opening in phases in South Baltimore’s industrial Warner Street district (since rebranded to The Walk @ Warner Street), with plans for a new entertainment district between M&T Bank Stadium and Horseshoe Casino Baltimore being implemented. The city also boasts the Top 25 most educated residents on the planet, partially the result of Johns Hopkins University, which ranks #7 globally in our University subcategory and is also Baltimore’s largest employer.

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The 50 best cities in the world in 2024

We quizzed thousands of city-dwellers to rank the best cities in the world right now. Ready?

What makes a city great? Some would say it’s all about buzzing neighbourhoods , affordable food and drink and a mighty selection of things to do, from art galleries and museums to live music and theatre. Others might highlight things like the happiness of its locals, access to green space and strong community vibes.

We factor in all that and more in our annual survey, which asks city-dwellers around the world to tell us what it’s like to live, work and play in their hometowns right now. Thanks to the opinions and insights of locals on the ground and our global network of city experts, we’re able to create a global ranking of the world’s best cities – and the 2024 results are in.

As in previous years, the basis of the ranking remains our global survey of the people who know their city best: the locals. Working with research company Potentia Insight, we surveyed thousands of city-dwellers about the quality and affordability of food, culture and nightlife in their city. We also asked locals how their city makes them feel: are they happy there? Is it a beautiful place? Is it easy to make social connections? Their thousands of responses gave us a unique insight into the reality of living in the world’s greatest cities right now.

Now that international travel is forecast to bounce back to the highest levels since 2019 , many travellers will be planning a city break this year – so in 2024, we added a little extra weight to a city’s global appeal. Each survey respondent was asked which other city they would most like to live in, and we polled more than 100 well-travelled Time Out staff writers and editors, based all over the world, for their take on which cities are particularly exciting places to visit right now.

So, ready to find out which cities came out on top this year? On your marks, get set…

RECOMMENDED: 🌍 The 24 best things to do in the world in 2024 😎 The coolest neighbourhoods in the world right now 🖼️ The world’s best cities for culture 🚦 The coolest streets in the world in 2024

An email you’ll actually love

The 50 best cities in the world for 2024

1. New York

What makes us great: You know it as ‘the city that never sleeps’ because many of its restaurants, bars and shops are open 24 hours a day, but the adage extends to New York ’ s spirit, too. This vibrant metropolis is always adapting, always innovating and always pushing the boundaries. It's never asleep. It's fully awake. That means constant must-see exhibits across the city’s galleries and museums, including the MoMA , the Whitney and the American Museum of Natural History . Its neighbourhoods hold the foundation together with their respective community-led events like the Queens Night Market in Flushing, the Lunar New Year Parade in Chinatown and the West Indian Day Parade in Crown Heights. No matter the time of year, there’s always a good party to go to, from a ‘Sip and Stitch’ gathering inside a designer's Chelsea studio to the all-out blowouts at Bushwick's House of Yes . All of this set within the historic boundaries of the city makes NYC shine despite its grit.

Visit now because: NYC is having an incredibly busy Broadway season this spring. Not only are top-rated shows like Sondheim's ‘Merrily We Roll Along’ and ‘Sweeney Todd’ continuing, but the city will see a deluge of new productions, including the highly-anticipated ‘The Notebook’, ‘Water for Elephants’ and ‘The Who's Tommy’ . Make sure to bookmark our guide to upcoming Broadway shows now.

The big numbers: There’s no denying the allure of the Big Apple. When it came to the city people wanted to move to most, New York was head and shoulders above the rest, with 15 percent of survey respondents saying they’d relocate there in a heartbeat.

📍 Discover the best things to do in New York City

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2. Cape Town

What makes us great: With Table Mountain – laced with well-marked walking trails – at the heart of a peninsula fringed by glorious beaches, it’s not hard to be smitten by Cape Town ’s natural beauty. But spend a few days here and the Mother City’s multicultural soul quickly shines through. In the District Six Museum and on Robben Island you’ll get to grips with the country’s turbulent history (remember that South Africa marks 30 years of democracy in 2024), while the colourful homes of Bo-Kaap are an invitation to discover the city’s vibrant Cape Malay community. More and more visitors are using tourist dollars to support independent businesses in townships, while Cape Town’s creative landscape is alive with new energy. Studios, galleries and public events abound – come for the Investec Cape Town Art Fair each February – while Cape Town is also famously the most LGBTQ+-friendly city on the continent.

Visit now because: The new Time Out Market Cape Town is buzzing! You’ll find a dozen of the city’s most creative chefs under a single roof, all set within an historic building on the charming harbourside V&A Waterfront.

The big numbers: Cape Town scored highly across the board. A whopping 100 percent of locals said the city is beautiful and that it made them happy, while Cape Town’s culture scene ranked highest in the world for its quality.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Cape Town

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3. Berlin

What makes us great: Berlin is so much more than its clubs, its galleries, and its reputation as the European capital of cool. The city might not be known for its friendliness, but Berliners are the heart and soul of the German capital. Whether you’re posted up at a smokey pub in Neukölln for people watching, finding your footing on the dancefloor in Friedrichshain, or making your voice heard at any number of community-led protests in Kreuzberg, you’re sure to find your place with likeminded people in Berlin. Getting between the 12 districts with public transportation is easy, but renting a bike is a great way to see the city. Bike lanes criss-cross the capital, and there are seemingly endless wide open green spaces (Tempelhof Field, a disused airport tarmac turned into a massive park, is a local favourite).

Visit now because: This year marks 20 years of Monster Ronson’s Ichiban Karaoke , Berlin’s best-known karaoke bar. Join in the celebration this November, or drop in seven nights a week to belt out your favourite showstopper from the comfort of a private booth. Feeling brave? Take it to the main stage.

The big numbers: We know well that Berliners like to party, and if our survey’s anything to go by, they’re in the right place for it – Berlin’s nightlife scene had an impressive 82 percent approval rating.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Berlin

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4. London

What makes us great: Londoners make London great. Nowhere else in the world can you rub shoulders with such a diverse yet weirdly homogeneous group of people. Is our home as friendly as Dublin , as beautiful as Paris or as gastronomically hyped as Tokyo ? No. But judging by the fact London is consistently named the best city in the world, Europe , and so on, it obviously doesn’t matter. Our galleries are free. Our parks are massive. Our pubs are legendary. Our kebab meat is plentiful. There’s no city like it, and if you don’t agree, we genuinely don’t care. But please visit!

Visit now because: There’s quite simply more to do here than anywhere else on earth, but in recent years our fair city’s been criticised for an ailing nightlife scene. Well, that’s all changed. London now is home to a whole bunch of massive, cutting-edge nightclubs. What they lack in underground grittiness they make up for in jumbo sound systems and killer lineups. Pay a visit to Outernet , Drumsheds or KOKO Electronic to see what we’re on about.

The big numbers: Despite what you might’ve heard about misery and rain, 94 percent of Londoners said they’re happy and 95 percent said they find the city beautiful. London also had the third-highest ‘pull factor’ of all cities surveyed, with 9 percent of respondents saying they’d move there if they could.

📍 Discover the best things to do in London

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5. Madrid

What makes us great: Whether you’re from Madrid or not, when you’re here, we’re all Madrileños. It's a welcoming and lively city that stands out for its exciting (daily) nightlife, its spectacular food, its internationally renowned chefs and its vibrant culture. Don’t just listen to us: in the last year alone, Salmon Guru was crowned one of the best cocktail bars in the world , David Muñoz has once again been voted the best chef on the planet and the Royal Collections Gallery was one of the most important museum projects in Europe. Big names aside, the essence of Madrid is found in its neighborhoods, where lifelong neighbours and century-old stores coexist with new art galleries and specialty cafe – as is the case in Carabanchel, chosen as the third best neighborhood in the world in 2023 . Given all of that, it’s no wonder Madrid is so popular with tourists – as evidenced by the amount of new hotels (most of them luxury) opening their doors around the city, from The Madrid Edition to the UMusic Hotel and the Thompson Madrid .

Visit now because: Any time is a good time to come and enjoy Madrid, but in 2024 the city will experience an explosion of international concerts due to the renovation of the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium . In the coming months, Taylor Swift, Luis Miguel and Karol G will be coming to the Spanish capital. In addition, The Boss (Bruce Springsteen) will perform on no less than three nights in another of the city's stadiums, the Metropolitano, home of Atlético de Madrid.

The big numbers: Did we mention the food is fantastic? Well, it’s worth reiterating – Madrid’s food scene got a very impressive 94 percent approval rating from Madrileños.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Madrid

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6. Mexico City

What makes us great: With a museum on every corner, it’s no surprise Mexico City was named the best city in the world for culture in 2023. There’s plenty more where that came from this year, with exciting emerging art spaces like Laguna , new galleries like Naranjo , and eagerly awaited international exhibitions like Damien Hirst at Museo Jumex . CDMX is also at the forefront of a vibrant gastronomic revolution, from mushroom cultivation at Tencui , Japanese coffee at Panya and the best brisket at Ahumados Pelican . The dark kitchens of Roma will surprise you, San Miguel Chapultepec’s artsy offerings will captivate you, breakfast in Condesa will be delicious and an afternoon in Coyoacán will be unforgettable. Get ready to fall even more in love with our neighbourhoods, our food and our warmth when you visit CDMX this year.

Visit now because: In the summer, the Cineteca Nacional will open a new home in the Bosque de Chapultepec, featuring eight theatres and an outdoor forum.

The big numbers: Mexico City scored highly for its overall liveability, with 100 percent of locals naming the city beautiful, 96 percent saying they were happy there and 94 percent saying it’s easy to make friends.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Mexico City

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7. Liverpool

What makes us great: There's more to Liverpool than Beatles tours and football matches. In fact, it's one of the best places in the world to go for a guaranteed-good-time. The true city that never sleeps, spots such as 24 Kitchen Street , home to some of the city's best DJs, or dive bars like Salt Dog Slims provide ample opportunities for late nights. But the city looks just as good in daylight, with a smiling face on every corner, and plenty of up-and-coming talent to champion, whether you're sampling small plates at Michelin-mentioned Belzan or checking out the work of local artists at FACT .

Visit now because: Still on a high off the back of hosting Eurovision, there's plenty of music events to look forward to in Liverpool this year. In The Park , hosted by much-loved local singer-songwriter Jamie Webster in collaboration with Cream Classical, will see dance anthems from over the years accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra.

The big numbers: Liverpool scored 89 percent for the affordability of its culture scene, making it the cheapest city on the list for art and culture.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Liverpool

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8. Tokyo

What makes us great: Much has been said about Tokyo ’s efficiency. Its wide-reaching network of public transport is always punctual and the urban landscape is world-renowned for being unbelievably clean and well designed. But what makes Tokyo truly exciting is its dynamism. This is a city that never stays the same – there’s always something new and innovative to discover here. Some of the world’s greatest restaurants are now in Tokyo (Massimo Bottura’s Gucci Osteria , Antwerp’s Michelin-starred Le Pristine , and MAZ , sister to Peruvian 2023 World Best Restaurant Central – just to name a few) while cocktail bars are experimenting with local ingredients like miso. Plus, the city now has three gin distilleries focusing on Japanese spirits and botanicals, new shopping malls with rooftop gardens, architect-designed public toilets, a flurry of new openings from anime centres to art galleries… it’s difficult to keep up at times, but we don’t expect anything less from this vibrant city.

Visit now because: The all-new teamLab Borderless digital art museum is opening in Azabudai Hills complex in central Tokyo on February 9. This is arguably the most anticipated new opening of 2024, as the museum promises a number of never-before-seen digital art installations making their world debut.

The big numbers: If our survey is anything to go by, Tokyoites are a merry bunch. 94 percent of locals said the city made them happy. With so much to do, see and (most importantly) eat, are we that surprised?

📍 Discover the best things to do in Tokyo

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9. Rome

What makes us great: Regarded as one of the world’s most beautiful cities, Rome lures travellers with its ancient history, fabled cuisine and laid-back lifestyle. From the majestic Colosseum and intricately carved Trevi Fountain to the Spanish Steps and Pantheon, the city’s architectural splendours provide a theatrical backdrop for daily life. Locals still shop for fresh produce in cobblestone piazzas while nuns gather over coffee and schoolchildren visit iconic artworks in the city’s many museums. Spanning over 2,000 years of history, Rome is a city with layers: head underground to sites like the ancient Roman houses of Palazzo Valentini and the Basilica of San Clemente, and see the city from a bird’s-eye view atop the Castel Sant’Angelo fortress and the terrace of Gianicolo.

Visit now because: A city historically beloved for its guanciale (pork) and offal, Rome is finally welcoming more plant-based restaurants to cater to changing palates. Try Buddy for a decadent vegan brunch, Grezzo for dairy-free gelato and don’t miss Romeow Cat Bistro ’s new vegan pastry shop, Julietta .

The big numbers: No surprises where the Italian capital scored highly. The city’s fabled food scene scored a 98 percent approval rating, with the same percentage of locals saying they found Rome beautiful.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Rome

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10. Porto

What makes us great: There’s good reason we chose Porto as this year’s best European city break . Portugal’s second city is a place where you eat well and drink better. In this wine capital, your glass will never be empty: check into a wine hotel like The Yeatman , The Lodge , or Wine & Books ; sip and snack at stylish wine bars like Genuíno , A Certain Café , or Tia Tia ; learn about all things vinho at the impressive World of Wine (WoW) , a kind of wine-themed Disneyland; and see where the magic happens on a tour of one of the cellars in Gaia (we recommend Sandeman , Cockburn's , and Cálem , to start). Visit now because: Time Out Market Porto opens in 2024 with the best of the city under the same roof. And what a roof – the market will be installed in a wing of the historic and beautiful São Bento Station , a property of public interest, which was designed by renowed architect Souto de Moura.

The big numbers: With those azulejo-tiled buildings and Duoro views, it’s no wonder 98 percent of locals would call their city beautiful. It’s also one of the highest scoring cities for romance, with 82 percent of locals saying it’s easy to find love in Porto.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Porto

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11. Paris

What makes us great: Without bragging (not really the French style), let's just say Paris pulls off a daily miracle. It's the most packed city in Europe, yet it somehow reconciles its unique historic vibe – you know, those stone buildings, iconic landmarks, and centuries-old boulevards – with a constant explosion of creativity in every direction. Fashion, music, food... you name it, this city of 110 nationalities keeps reinventing itself day in and day out, and all through the night. Where else but in Paris can you try a Japanese chef’s take on French cuisine ? Where else but in Paris can you attend a ballroom event in a nineteenth-century theatre ? Where else but in Paris can you visit a former grain exchange home to one of the largest private collections of contemporary art ? Nowhere, that’s where.

Visit now because: Between the Lunar New Year parades in the 13th arrondissement, Fashion Week shows at the coolest spots in town and (of course) this summer’s Olympic Games , the French capital is – as usual – the place to be this year.

The big numbers: Paris was the second-most mentioned city when survey respondents were asked where they’d most like to move if they could.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Paris

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12. Mumbai

What makes us great: Mumbai is India in a nutshell – from history to modernity, spirituality to sports, a colonial past to a dynamic present – all sprinkled with liberal doses of Bollywood magic and wrapped in the balmy breeze of the Arabian Sea. The city exhilirates with contrasts. Grab your hiking shoes to explore the 1500-year-old rock-cut Kanheri Caves and then don your evening best for a swish cocktail bar in Kamala Mills. Bargain at dawn at the Dadar Flower Market and then splurge at Kala Ghoda’s haute couture boutiques. Dare a rush-hour ride on the local trains and then find peace of mind in Gorai’s Vipassana Centre. Marvel at the enterprising spirit in Dharavi’s shanties and gawk at the towering Antilla, home to India’s wealthiest man.

Visit now because: Two new stars shine brightly on Mumbai’s cultural canvas: the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre is a world-class arts space hosting theatre, musicals, concerts and exhibits; and then there’s the Museum of Solutions , an innovative and experiential children’s museum that’s bound to pique young minds.

The big numbers: Only two cities got a 100 percent approval rating for their food scene, and Mumbai was one of them.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Mumbai

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13. Lisbon

What makes us great: The light of Lisbon , the hilltop viewpoints overlooking the Tagus River, the terraces to enjoy the sunset, the beaches just half an hour away… there are endless reasons the Portuguese capital is so compelling. And in 2024, there’s another thing that makes us great: the city’s increasingly lively music festivals. Lisbon is in for a belter of a summer, with names like Doja Cat, Camila Cabello, Calum Scott, and Ed Sheeran at Rock in Rio Lisboa in June; Dua Lipa, Pearl Jam, Benjamin Clementine, and Smashing Pumpkins at NOS Alive in July; Måneskin at Super Bock Super Rock in July and LCD Soundsystem, Sam Smith, Massive Attack, and The Kills at MEO Kalorama in August.

Visit now because: Two major museums are reopening in 2024: the Gulbenkian Modern Art Centre (aka the CAM ), home to the most renowned collection of modern and contemporary art in Portugal, and the MUDE (Lisbon’s Design and Fashion Museum).

The big numbers: Ninety-six percent of locals think Lisbon is beautiful. Those Tagus river views? Those pastel-painted buildings? All that golden light? Yep, we’d have to agree.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Lisbon

14. Chicago

What makes us great: Whether you want to spend a night listening to blues until 4am or a day marvelling at awe-inspiring architecture, Chicago has you covered. The unofficial capital of the Midwest offers all the expected amenities of a world-class city – a vibrant nightlife and heaps of culture, to start – plus a whole lot more. No matter the season, Chicago is full of exciting things to do, from a festive holiday marketplace in the wintertime to lively street fests every weekend during the summer. And the food and drink scene is second to none, boasting Michelin-starred dining destinations alongside iconic institutions renowned for Chicago-style specialties, such as the legendary deep dish pizza and the irresistible Italian beef sandwich.

Visit now because: There’s never been a better time for fine dining. Smyth has just earned three Michelin stars – only the second Chicago restaurant to be honored with the distinction – while newcomers like Indienne and Maman Zari are serving up boundary-pushing Indian and Persian cuisines, respectively.

The big numbers: You can’t fault the Windy City for entertainment: locals rated the city’s nightlife and culture offering highly at 83 percent respectively.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Chicago

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15. Manchester

What makes us great: Few cities have achieved more than Manchester. Countless incredible bands, two globe-conquering football teams, and one world boxing champ, thanks to local lad Tyson. But Manchester doesn’t stand still. Since Ancoats’ Mana bagged a Michelin star in 2019, the food scene has soared, leading to astonishingly inventive meals at the likes of Erst , 10 Tib Lane and MUSU . The underground clubbing scene is unrivalled, thanks to the progressive (and semi-lawless) feel of Hidden , The Loft and The White Hotel . Meanwhile, The Peer Hat , Eagle Inn and Aatma prove that alternative music isn’t dead, just more experimental than ever. Most excitingly, the live comedy circuit harks back to the golden age of Caroline Aherne and Steve Coogan, full of uncompromising northern voices, and refreshingly light on nepo babies. Our hot tips: scathing working-class wit Rachel Fairburn , twisted club comic Chris Cantrill and menacing-hearthrob-slash-viral-video-sensation Tom Lawrinson , to name but three.

Visit now because: It's no coincidence that Chanel held its 2023 fashion show here , mere weeks after the UK’s landmark arts hub Factory International opened its doors. The balance of cultural power has finally shifted up North, making Manchester one of the most vibrant and fast-growing cities in Europe right now. And the rain isn't that bad. Honest.

The big numbers: Clubbing and comedy seem to be the key ingredients for a happy life – 96 percent of Mancunians said that their city makes them happy.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Manchester

16. São Paulo

What makes us great: Unjustly overlooked as a layover destination for too long, São Paulo is now firmly established as a must-visit spot in a country with no shortage of attractions. The largest city in the Southern Hemisphere is a global destination for foodies, rivaling Lima and Mexico City for the mantle of Latin America's culinary capital. Generations of immigration from Europe , Asia , South America and, more recently, Africa have made São Paulo's restaurant scene as diverse and vibrant as the species in the Amazon rainforest. Come for the food, stay for the nightlife, stunning cityscapes, jaw-dropping Carnival and the world's largest Pride parade.

Visit now because: São Paulo's thriving restaurant scene gets more exciting every day. Check out some of the city's new openings, like the Thai fine dining at Ping Yang , Japanese-Korean fusion at KuroMoon , or Shoshana Delishop for refined Jewish diaspora fare.

The big numbers: São Paulo was among the cities with the highest score for romance, with 88 percent of locals saying it’s easy to find love in the city. What’s more, 100 percent of Paulistanos surveyed said the city made them happy.

📍 Discover the best things to do in São Paulo

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17. Los Angeles

What makes us great: No city is all sunshine and rainbows, but LA actually comes close – at least in a literal, meteorological sense. After years of drought, welcome wet weather has reinvigorated already-stunning natural retreats across the city with seasonal snowy mountaintops and colorful carpets of flowers. But LA’s appeal isn’t limited to the outdoors: cinephiles can again flock to the century-old Egyptian and Vista Theatres, revived by Netflix and Quentin Tarantino respectively, while the intimately-mid-sized concert venue the Bellwether and multi-themed club Level 8 have reawakened Downtown LA’s after-dark offerings. As for navigating between it all, a trio of new line-linking subway stops have made the city’s Metro remarkably more useful. And, of course, LA’s dining scene continues to impress with wow-worthy pasta at Funke , standout omakase at Sushi Sonagi and Japanese-Mexican mariscos at Loreto .

Visit now because: Luna Luna: Forgotten Fantasy has resurrected a 1980s art carnival with works by Jean-Michel Basquiat, Keith Haring and Salvador Dalí inside a soundstage next to the LA River. Though you sadly can’t go on the rides, the atmosphere is still magical.

The big numbers: Angelenos are rightly proud of the city’s food scene, giving it a healthy 89 percent approval rating in our survey.

📍 Discover the best things to do in LA

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18. Amsterdam

What makes us great: Amsterdam is a city that constantly confounds. On one hand, it’s a classic, old European city, a beautiful and prestigious metropolis overflowing with fine dining, high art, and the type of architecture to melt the coldest heart. Yet on the other? Amsterdam is rugged and counter-cultural, a city of coffeeshops , alternative art, and bleeding-edge clubs. What separates Amsterdam from the rest is how these two sides aren’t contradictory. In fact, they complement each other, forming a collective whole unlike anywhere else in the world. That’s the true spirit of Amsterdam: it’s a city that enables you to be yourself, to do what you want and be who you want to be, all without an ounce of judgement.

Visit now because: You need to experience Koningsdag (King’s Day). While Pride and ADE (Amsterdam Dance Event) have similar vibes, neither feel quite as Dutch as Koningsdag. Here, on April 27th, Amsterdam turns orange, as people flood onto the streets and throw what must be close to Europe’s biggest street party. It’s chaotic, busy, but totally unforgettable.

The big numbers: With all its quaint streets and pretty canals, it’s no surprise Amsterdam is one of the most romantic cities on the list – a whopping 88 percent of locals said finding love is easy in the city.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Amsterdam

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19. Lagos

What makes us great: Whether you’re a staunch mainlander or from Lekki, there’s something for everyone in Lagos, Africa’s most populous city. Posh Victoria Island continues to deliver a trifecta of swanky resorts, food haunts, and nightlife. Lekki is for the brunchers – make Maple Lagos your first stop. On the mainland, Kuti’s Bistro in Ikeja, owned by the legendary afrobeat family, serves up reliably delicious food and hosts parties, karaoke and games nights. And then there are the beaches – hit up Oniru Beach for some fun in the sun, but be sure to bring naira for this private beach. For those who live for the night, Hard Rock Cafe Lagos provides a massive indoor-outdoor playground with top artists including DJ Obi (‘Obi’s House’ on Mondays), who set a Guinness World Record in 2016 for a 240-hour marathon set.

Visit now because: Both the city and its suburbs are expanding – just check out live-work-play concept Eko Atlantic City . Just out of town, Epe, on the north side of Lekki Lagoon, is experiencing a boom. The town is home to the legendary Oluwo Fish Market, the biggest in Lagos state, where almost all traders are women. Fittingly, there’s a giant two-fish statue in the centre of town.

The big numbers: When it comes to standard of living, Lagos has a lot going for it – 96 percent of locals are happy, 98 percent would call Lagos beautiful and the city got a 92 percent friendliness rating, too.

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20. Melbourne

What makes us great: Right, where do we begin? Not only is Melbourne home to the sixth coolest neighbourhood in the entire world (shout out to Northside ‘burb Brunswick East), but this bustling metropolis of ours was also named the world’s tenth best city for culture right now . And don’t even get us started on the recent avalanche of new restaurant openings: from a French fine diner housed in the city’s cavernous old Stock Exchange building to an authentic Mexican joint slinging the best tacos in town, there’s no doubting which Aussie state wears the culinary crown (we see you coming for it, Sydney!). Add all of this to an impressive programme of major events – Australian Open , F1 Australian Grand Prix , Melbourne International Comedy Festival , to name just a few – and yeah, we’d say Melbourne’s is pretty darn great right now.

Visit now because: Melbourne is currently a haven for audiophiles thanks to a bevy of insanely cool, late-night listening lounges that have popped up across the city. Hit up hot spots like Wax Music Lounge , High Note and Music Room for live bands, jazz nights and DJs spinning vinyl tunes.

The big numbers: A very impressive 97 percent of Melburnians would describe Melbourne as beautiful, while the city’s eating and drinking scene got a tasty 87 percent approval rating.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Melbourne

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21. Naples

What makes us great: Nestled between Mount Vesuvius and the sea, Naples is Italy 's cultural soul. Beautiful and bustling, Naples will have you falling in love at first visit with its old-school charm, Unesco World Heritage Sites, vibrant street life, warm Neapolitan hospitality, a lot of sunshine and delectable food. It is the birthplace of pizza , after all. Get lost underneath the dangling clothes of the Quartieri Spagnoli, sip on a smooth shot of espresso from Bar Mexico , take a dip in the sea in the coastal neighborhood of Posillipo, and munch on a traditional sandwich of cicoli and ricotta from Antica Salumeria Malinconico for a wholesome Neapolitan experience.

Visit now because: Stroll through the reawakened Galleria Principe di Napoli, where young Neapolitan entrepreneurs are repurposing abandoned spaces like cocktail bar and bistro ScottoJonno and jewelry artisan AG Albachiara Gatto , to name a few.

The big numbers: Not only is the food in Naples excellent, but it’s pleasantly cheap too, with locals scoring their city’s dining scene 96 percent for quality and affordability. It’s also the friendliest city on the list, with 98 percent of locals saying its’s easy to make friends.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Naples

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22. Singapore

What makes us great: Though small, Singapore is teeming with incredible things to do – from arts venues and themed nightlife spots like Ark11 to adrenaline-inducing attractions like HyperDrive . We’re home to some of the best restaurants in the world , but also plenty of humble hawker stalls serving traditional fare. And all of this is highly accessible via an uber-efficient public transport system, plus it’s clean, and super safe for solo travel . For a respite away from city bustle, head to Sentosa’s beach clubs like the new Tipsy Unicorn , soak up the sun at the Southern Islands, or venture to the outskirts for farms like Bollywood Veggies .

Visit now because: New events, pop-up festivals, and food and drink outlets are springing up pretty much every single week. The thrifting scene in Singapore has had a huge revival recently, so there are plenty of cool spots like NearesTTen and The Née Vintage Store to snag rare vintage togs. Lots of new cycling and trekking routes have opened up as well; check out the Rail Corridor , which recently got an extension with over 21 kilometres of trails.

The big numbers: Singapore knows how to eat out and stay out. The city’s food and nightlife scenes had approval ratings of 91 percent and 80 percent respectively.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Singapore

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23. Miami

What makes us great: We could list off our 35-mile stretch of beachfront, year round balminess and 24/7 nightlife, but that’s stating the obvious. Over the past few decades, Miami has evolved from a resort town to a full-fledged metropolis, offering all the things other global powerhouse cities do – fantastic restaurants and bars, sporting arenas and events, an enviable arts and culture scene – only our high rises come with an ocean view and whatever’s offered in English is offered in Spanish, too. As a city we are unapologetically and authentically ourselves – whether you like it or not. And damn, do we know how to have a good time.

Visit now because: Between globally recognized chefs like Massimo Bottura opening restaurants here ( Torno Subito is coming to Miami this year) and secondary outposts for Latin American restaurant groups, you can get a taste of the entire world in one place. Local chefs are leveling up, too. Check out our latest food hall opening, Julia & Henry’s , for a sample.

The big numbers: Miami’s legendary party scene got a big thumbs up from locals – the city had the second-highest score for nightlife, with a 94 percent approval rating.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Miami

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24. Bangkok

What makes us great: Food is both an indulgence and a source of pride for Thais, and eating in Bangkok is practically a sport. From street-side stalls and food carts on bustling streets to fancy restaurants in sleek skyscrapers, the options are endless – and many are wallet-friendly and available around the clock. Visiting more than one restaurant a night is a regular occurrence for locals, who fill up before heading out for a night at one of the trendy bars that define the local cocktail scene. That’s not all – alongside a thriving food and drink scene, Bangkok is seeing an emerging pop art culture promoted in a spate of hip galleries across town.

Visit now because: The citywide art fest Bangkok Design Week is coming up this month. Hop aboard the city’s new train lines and discover the work of local talents – and in between gallery and event visits, drop by one of the city’s best dining spots, which includes 35 restaurants with Michelin stars and 9 venues on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants lists (not to mention night markets and food streets).

The big numbers: Thailand ’s not shaking that ‘Land of Smiles’ nickname: 98 percent of Bangkok locals said their city makes them happy – and the same percentage said it was beautiful, too.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Bangkok

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25. Lima

What makes us great: In a montage of ancient temples, modern high-rises, arresting museums and many of South America ’s finest restaurants, Lima spreads along the clifftops of Peru ’s glittering Pacific coast as one of Latin America’s most alluring destinations. This capital is ostensibly chaotic, and underappreciated because of it, but beneath the surface Lima is a creative and sophisticated city. It’s the cooking pot for many of the continent’s most exciting culinary innovations and the address of some of its suavest city neighborhoods. In Lima’s centre, you could spend days roaming around troves of colonial architecture and museums showcasing Peru’s huge breadth of indigenous cultures, or hit the coast for phenomenal surfing – in the country which has a strong claim to have been the birthplace of the sport.

Visit now because: You’ll get to experience one of the world’s most exciting food destinations right now. Lima’s Central was crowned number one in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list in 2023 , which has added extra buzz to the eating scene – and there are a clutch of other city restaurants in close pursuit. 2024 will also see Lima host the World Athletics U20 Championship in August.

The big numbers: Surprise, surprise – the city home to the world’s best restaurant scored full marks for its food scene, with 100 percent of locals rating it highly.

📍Discover the best things to do in Peru

26. Budapest

What makes us great: Europe’s most beautiful capital lounges either side of the Danube, connected by elegant bridges and superb public transport. Budapest is more than just two cities in one, having recently celebrated the 150th anniversary of the union of Buda and Pest. It’s a green city, lined with bike lanes every which way. It’s generally a safe place to party , for women, too. And it’s the same gorgeous metropolis the City fathers created from the 1870s onwards, all grand façades and remarkable detail. Its spas are another unique attraction – don’t miss the panoramic jacuzzi at the Rudas – along with floating nightspots, most notably the A38 live venue and DJ space. Michelin-starred restaurants cluster in the business quarter, the informal Borkonyha, the perfect introduction to Hungarian wines and gastronomy. Many seek out the homely comfort of classic Magyar dishes, best sampled at the cosy Lánchíd Söröző , where queues snake out the door in winter holiday season towards the Chain Bridge it is named after.

Visit now because : The big hitters in the Liget Project , the transformation of City Park to a contemporary cultural hub, are always showcasing something new. Exhibitions and live shows feature at the House of Hungarian Music , while a new National Gallery will be taking shape on the site of a former concert venue.

The big numbers: No-one can deny Budapest’s good looks – when asked if their city is beautiful, 94 percent of locals said yes.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Budapest

27. Beijing

What makes us great: Beijing is a delightful blend of ancient charm and modern drive that stands out as the ever-beating heart of China . Its streets have stood since the times of emperors and ceremonies, with sites like the Forbidden City and Summer Palace offering glimpses into the past. Meanwhile, its unique neighbourhoods are great for anyone who wants to experience the friendly hum of local life. The 798 art district buzzes with creativity, the varied food scene ranges from humble street food like Chinese pancakes to vegan food and Peking duck feasts, and the Hutong alleyways showcase the city's soul.

Visit now because: Beijing's coffee culture is growing, with cafés across the city offering their spin on serving coffee with a Chinese touch. The dining scene in the CBD is vibrant, and a new shopping haven, Scitech More Shopping Mall , has recently opened.

The big numbers: Beijing scored highly across the board, but stands out for its dining scene, which got a very impressive 98 percent approval rating.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Beijing

28. Dubai

What makes us great: Dubai has sealed its position as the city everyone wants to live in (like we didn’t know). The city is the first choice for wannabe expats and is ranked as one of the most affordable tax-free destinations in the world , so if you fancy upping sticks this year, look no further. There are pool parties, brunches and beach clubs; shows, festivals and gigs; a phenomenal home-grown dining scene (perfectly paired with stunning outposts of the world’s best restaurant brands), a city-wide fitness campaign and an incredible, all-encompassing approach to kids. Entrepreneurs thrive, families flourish and nationalities blend to create a culture of togetherness. It’s hands down the cleanest, friendliest, most welcoming city you could wish to visit. Oh, and did we mention the weather?

Visit now because: You’ll be in good company: Ed Sheeran is on his way, as are American band One Republic . There are nine lush new hotels to stay in too, with the epic One&Only One Za’abeel home to the UAE’s longest suspended infinity pool and next door to the Middle East’s first eatery from the world’s most decorated female chef, Anne-Sophie Pic.

The big numbers: Superior quality is the name of the game in Dubai, so it’s no surprise the city’s food and nightlife scenes ranked highly, with an approval rating of 98 and 96 percent respectively (making Dubai the best city on the list for nightlife).

📍 Discover the best things to do in Dubai

29. Montreal

What makes us great: Combine one of the biggest cultural hubs in the world with old school European architecture and cutting-edge design and you’ve got Montreal . Add a smattering of some of the finest food in the country , a cutting-edge cocktail scene, free family activities and some of the coolest festivals (including Montreal en Lumiere, one of the largest outdoor winter events in Canada), and it’s easy to see why everyone falls in love with it – ubiquitous orange cones, endless construction and language laws included. Come for the friendly, open atmosphere, and stay for the winter party. With an illuminated giant ferris wheel, evening disco skating nights and free museum visits, you can’t go wrong.

Visit now because: When the temperature drops, the city’s nightlife scene heats up. We’re talking about new free interactive light installations all over downtown, and Igloofest , where you can dance under the stars all night.

The big numbers: It might be below freezing this time of year, but Montrealers don’t let the cold bring them down – 94 percent of locals we surveyed said they are happy.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Montreal

30. Glasgow

What makes us great: Plenty of cities boast world-class food, beautiful scenery and popping nightlife. Only one is full of Glaswegians. Glasgow ’s identity and sense of community are infused into its soul, and spare no newcomer. Expect to be welcomed with open (albeit playfully mocking) arms as you explore a world of unique museums, indie bookshops, and £1 shots. You heard that right: your wallet will escape Glasgow unscathed, with restaurants like Sugo and Topolobamba offering cheap but delicious grub, and in a place that was recently named the best UK city break for architecture , simply walking around becomes an event in itself. Plus, culture is taken seriously. It’s no surprise Glasgow has produced most of Scotland’s best bands and actors, considering the city’s thriving live music scene and the enduring appeal of the near century-old Glasgow Film Theatre . Whoever you are, Glasgow awaits with great patter and a cool pint of Tennent’s.

Visit now because: Independent shops selling locally handmade gifts and produce are popping up around the entire city, so there’s always something new to treat yourself to. And of course, the eclectic Barrowlands Market , having recently celebrated its 100th anniversary, remains a perfect distillation of the city’s good-hearted chaos.

The big numbers: Good food, happy people – Glasgow’s got it nailed, with a 92 percent food quality score and happiness rating.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Glasgow

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31. Sydney

What makes us great: It’s impossible not to start with the harbour, widely recognised as one of the most spectacular in the world. But there’s more to this ocean inlet than the section near our famous white-sailed Opera House and the Harbour Bridge – the waterway weaves around the whole city, carving out breathtaking nooks bordered by walking tracks, public gardens, restaurants and bars. And then, of course, there are our pristine beaches. It’s no wonder everyone fixates on Sydney ’s stunning coast and nature, but our food scene is also world-class, with a curated pick’n’mix of the best food from every corner of the world.

Visit now because: Sydney’s absolutely buzzing right now, with loads of exciting new restaurant and bar openings. There’s huge post-pandemic investment in nightlife, music, the arts, events and a speedy metro rail, so the streets are more alive than ever. And this year, the huge international festival SXSW will be held in Sydney.

The big numbers: Surrounded by nature, fringed by beaches and boasting one of the world’s most iconic harbours, Sydney is undeniably gorgeous – and 97 percent of locals agree.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Sydney

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32. Buenos Aires

What makes us great: After Michelin’s first guide to the Argentine capital was published in November, it’s safe to say Buenos Aires is one of South America’s leading food and drink cities. Some 52 restaurants were recommended, a healthy debut that included six Bib Gourmand awards, two one-stars in Trescha and Don Julio and a lone two-star in Aramburu – all confirming the city’s position as a dining hotspot. Meanwhile, bartenders are continuing to shake up the cocktail scene after Tres Monos took home the prestigious Art of Hospitality prize from last year’s World’s 50 Best Bars awards; two other watering holes, Cochinchina and Florería Atlántico , also rank in the top 50. A host of tipple taverns have opened in the past year, including Kona, Mixtape Listening Bar , Sofa , Punto Mona and Dimi . The latter three bars can all be found in the Chacarita neighbourhood, a stone’s throw from well-known Palermo, and the barrio is going from strength to strength. Dining hotspots include Na Num , Picaron and Ajo Negro that bear Michelin mentions, while other openings include Acido and Guchito Taller de Sanguches sandwich bar.

Visit now because: Big-name Latin indie bands such as Conociendo Rusia, Bandalos Chinos and El mató a un Policía Motorizado frequently rock up at intimate venues across the city such as Konex , C Complejo Art Media and Luna Park ; there are also cool home-grown festivals such as Buena Vibra . In November, Creamfields makes a welcome return to the EDM circuit after a nine-year hiatus.

The big numbers: Excellent dining is one thing Buenos Aires can claim, but the city’s culture scene got high praise in our survey, too, with a 79 percent approval rating for its quality and a 60 percent affordability score.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Buenos Aires

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33. Kuala Lumpur

What makes us great: A meeting of the old and the ultra-modern, Kuala Lumpur ’s centuries-old heritage sites — including mosques, Taoist temples and stunning Hindu shrines — sit in the shadow of sky-high supertowers and sprawling shopping malls. The food scene is a melting pot of some of the world’s best street eats, whether you go the way of kopitiams (a type of dependable local café), hawker stalls or neon-lit night markets. Let’s not forget the rest: charming coffee-slinging cafés, hot-ticket chef’s openings spotlighting local produce, Michelin-starred restaurants, and everything in between. Explore the city’s many arts and culture hubs, like APW, REXKL and The Zhongshan Building , which house cafés, bars and specialty shops. These multi-purpose venues are where the creative class and the city’s cool kids work hard and play harder, with weekend events with no shortage of things to do.

Visit now because: This is a city celebrated, above all, for its cuisine. At two-Michelin starred Dewakan , Darren Teoh is redefining modern Malaysian cuisine through indigenous ingredients harvested from one of the oldest rainforests in the world. Stay out for a drink or two at one of KL’s many craft cocktail bars ( Bar Trigona , Coley , the list goes on) or dance the night away at drum‘n’bass haunts, rooftop parties, and the like.

The nig numbers: The city’s top qualities, according to our survey, are its friendliness (with 90 percent of locals saying it’s easy to make friends) and its food (which scored a healthy 94 percent approval rating).

📍 Discover the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur

34. Manila

What makes us great: A city that used to be regarded as a necessary stopover before jumping off to one of the Philippines ’ famed white sand beaches, Manila ’s current renaissance proves it deserves to be a destination in its own right. Although the notorious snarling traffic remains omnipresent, it can be credited for the organic growth of micro-communities, like Poblacion and Legaspi and Salcedo Villages. It’s easy to spend the day exploring one of these walkable neighbourhoods: enjoy a cold brew from a third wave coffee joint like Yardstick and Assembly Hall ; explore an artisanal jeweler’s studio such as Erica Concepcion and Joyce Makitalo ; discover homegrown designers and craftsmen like Rajo Laurel , Puey Quiñones , Jo Ann BItagcol and Sapatero ; and then grab a bite in one of the many chef-driven bistros like Tandem , Sampiro , Lampara , and Metronome . For a night cap, head to a cocktail bar or speakeasy; La Vie en Rose , Bar Good Times , ITO Space and The Curator are some favourites.

Visit now because: Manila’s contemporary art scene is flourishing, with festivals like Art Fair Philippines and Art in the Park forging the way. On the classical front, a handful of heritage buildings and museums have been refurbished and reopened to the public recently thanks to an administrative push that celebrates local history and culture.

The big numbers: With a 90 percent score for quality and an 88 percent score for affordability, Manila’s food scene got a big round of applause from locals this year.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Manila

35. Seoul

What makes us great: There’s something for every type of traveller in Seoul . Looking to party all night? The neighbourhoods of Hongdae, Itaewon and Gangnam are calling your name. Food your driving force? Seoul has street food, polished plates and everything in between. There are international art shows, like Frieze Seoul , for the culture-seekers and tours to the border between North and South Korea for the history buffs. Nature lovers can take their time to explore the famed Bukhansan Mountain, and if you’re a coffee addict, Seoul’s cafe culture (there are 18,000 joints and counting!) is not to be missed. One thing’s for sure: no two days will ever be the same here.

Visit now because: With K-anything all the hype these days, it shouldn’t come as a surprise to know that the government has announced a whopping 1.3 trillion South Korean won into the ‘2023-2024 Visit Korea Year campaign’, which means there will be a load of events happening all throughout the year. Particularly exciting events include the Korea Beauty Festival in June and a large K-culture festival in September.

The big numbers: Four percent of Time Out editors worldwide voted for Seoul as one the coolest cities in the world right now.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Seoul

36. Hanoi

What makes us great: Ancient, bustling and endlessly beguiling, Vietnam ’s capital is not short on options for a good day out. Stroll through the maze of narrow streets in the Old Quarter, revealing a piece of history on every corner, from French colonial architecture to ancient temples. Join locals sipping Vietnamese coffee by the tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake, and then wander down alleys looking for street food – don't miss Bun Cha Huong Lien ’s famed bun cha, a noodle dish served with grilled pork and a savoury, sweet, and tangy broth. Get to know Hanoi ’s cultural side with a visit to the Temple of Literature, honouring knowledge and scholarship, or explore the innovative art scene at the Manzi Art Space .

Visit now because: An influx of new openings are redefining the dining scene in this legendary food city. Get stuck into some ribs at smokehouse Barbaros , try contemporary Korean cuisine at JUMARC , or relish elevated northern Vietnamese flavours at The East . Round out the night with stunning cocktails and panoramic views at the boat-inspired Lighthouse Sky Bar .

The big numbers: Hanoi got a seriously impressive overall liveability score in our survey, with 100 percent of locals saying they’re happy and that they think the city is beautiful, 94 percent saying it’s easy to make friends and 88 percent saying it’s easy to find love.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Hanoi

37. San Francisco

What makes us great: Don’t believe the ‘doom loop’ narrative about San Francisco – the city is buzzing once again and remains one of the greatest travel destinations on the planet. Sure, the office-heavy financial district is still quieter than in 2019, but the rest of the city is alive with a palpable energy that harks back to the pre-2020 glory days. For visitors, San Francisco offers all the makings of a perfect vacation: an unbeatable food scene, great weather year-round, abundant natural beauty, beautiful neighborhoods to stroll, trendy hotels and, of course, world-class wine – be it sipped in a cosy neighbourhood restaurant or on a sprawling vineyard under an hour away in Wine Country.

Visit now because: San Francisco’s bar scene is having a moment. There’s been an onslaught of lively new openings recently, from sky-high rooftop bars like Cavana and underground speakeasies like the Felix to natural wine bar GluGlu . Sober folks will appreciate another trend in SF: a great selection on non-alcoholic drinks on every menu.

The big numbers: Locals in San Francisco remain optimistic, with a huge 98 percent of San Franciscans saying that the city makes them happy.

📍 Discover the best things to do in San Francisco

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38. Barcelona

What makes us great: Of course, Barcelona ’s many magnificent attractions make it a magnet for tourism – and while certain areas should be avoided because of tourist saturation, there are plenty of others where you can experience the real heart of the city. For every iconic and overcrowded site like the Sagrada Familia, there's a hidden gem waiting to be discovered – ever heard of Gaudí’s Torre Bellesguard ? Barcelona’s bars ( SIPS ) and restaurants ( Disfrutar , Àbac ) consistently top lists of the world's best places to eat and drink. There are always exciting dining novelties popping up – take Xeixa , located in the former brothel where Picasso met the ladies of Avignon. Year after year, Barcelona's street culture draws crowds to popular festivals like Llum BCN , and commemorations provide the perfect excuse to celebrate the city's great artists. 2024 marks the Year Tàpies , where the city will be celebrating 100 years since the birth of the Barcelona-born painter and sculptor.

Visit it now because: This is shaping up to be an exciting year for Barcelona, especially along its waterfront. Beyond the thrill of the America's Cup happening between August and October, the highlight of the summer will be the grand opening of Time Out Market Barcelona , right by the sea on the Maremagnum terrace.

The big numbers: Barcelona’s a beauty, that’s for sure – and so say 95 percent of locals who live there.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Barcelona

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39. Abu Dhabi

What makes us great: Many visit Abu Dhabi to see iconic buildings like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Louvre Abu Dhabi , only to be pleasantly surprised by UAE capital’s nature and culture. On one end of the emirate, adjacent to Eastern Mangrove National Park, skyscrapers kiss the horizon, while the other end sees 4X4s smashing over sand dunes. Abu Dhabi loves to welcome visitors – 90 percent of locals rated the city for friendliness – and over 200 nationalities call the emirate home. Enjoy the best entertainment at Etihad Arena, a stellar line-up of award-winning restaurants as seen in the Time Out Abu Dhabi Restaurant Awards , a jam-packed calendar of international sporting events including the F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and UFC, cultural heritage festivals like Sheikh Zayed Festival and events that break Guinness World Records not once, but four times in one single evening.

Visit now because: It’s a great time to get stuck into beachside eats at the vibrant Mamsha Al Saadiyat, from acclaimed Japanese hotspot Niri to the booming UAE-born burger brand Pickl . Meanwhile Saadiyat Island is currently hosting the star-studded Saadiyat Nights , where you can catch performances from Mariah Carey, Sting and more.

The big numbers: Eating out in Abu Dhabi won’t break the bank, according to locals. The city’s food scene got an 84 percent approval rating both for its quality and affordability.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Abu Dhabi

40. New Orleans

What makes us great: New Orleans is rightly a bucket-list destination for its big-ticket annual events like Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest, but the party never stops in this celebratory city. Every season brings a new set of festivals , while the city's iconic dining scene can, of course, be enjoyed any time of year. There’s everything from century-old institutions and James Beard award-winners to celebrated dives and top-tier bars (the cocktail was invented here, after all). The city itself is a museum, with historic buildings and unique architecture – and not just in the French Quarter. As the birthplace of jazz , music is a part of everyday life, and the live music calendar is always packed. And after all the celebrations? The city’s many beautiful parks offer a serene escape.

Visit now because: This year, the legendary Jazz Fest expands to eight days to include the Rolling Stones, and Essence Fest celebrates its 30th anniversary. New Orleans will also be home to a major event on the culinary calendar, as the city hosts the Bocuse d’Or and Pastry World Cup in June – the first time the competition has been held in the US.

The big numbers: New Orleans is the friendliest US city on the list, with a near-perfect 94 percent of locals saying it was easy to make friends in the Big Easy.

📍 Discover the best things to do in New Orleans

41. Philadelphia

What makes us great: Exploring Philly is a bit like sifting through a cultural archaeological dig. The new layers don’t so much sit on top of the existing as they are marbled into the grain. When they mix, you get magical restaurants like Friday Saturday Sunday , a Rittenhouse neighbourhood staple and the 2023 James Beard winner for Most Outstanding Restaurant, which has existed under the same name and address since the ’70s but was taken over in 2015 and transformed into the must-visit dining spot it is today. You get the transcendent spaces of the Bok Building , cradled in the bones of an FDR-era trade school that by day is an enclave for artists and creatives, and by night, is home to a world-class rooftop bar and one of Philly’s best restaurants in Irwin’s. You get one of the smartest examples of urban redevelopment in the Navy Yard, a riverfront community in the shadow of rusting warships with dozens of acres of public park space and walking trails. You get a city that’s peaking at a moment in time when what it's becoming and what it once was are still intertwined.

Visit now because: Philly’s sprawling Lincoln Financial Field will be home to WWE’s week-long WrestleMania extravaganza this spring. Ready to rumble?

The big numbers: Ninety-two percent of locals said their city makes them happy. Maybe it is always sunny in Philadelphia.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Philadelphia

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42. Austin

What makes us great: There are a million reasons everyone’s moving to Austin , but there’s one reason they stay: nature. From Ladybird Lake , where you’ll often see a corral of tech bros on paddle boards, to the various crystal-clear creeks hiding outside city limits, nature is a cornerstone of Austin’s culture. When temps climb over 100 degrees (which is often), a dip into the lush blue oasis of Barton Springs Pool , minutes from downtown, refreshes both body and soul. Beyond Barton, Austin's surrounding creeks and swimming holes will make any visitor rethink the notion that Texas is only a barren desert. Stroll down any of the several greenbelts encircling the city and you, too, will ask yourself, ‘Should I move here?’

Visit now because: The CMT Awards are returning to Austin for a second year on April 7, bringing country music's biggest stars to the Lone Star state. Or you could see for yourself why Austin is renowned for its festivals at SXSW and Austin City – and the United States Grand Prix rounds out the rest of 2024, so there’s plenty to keep you busy.

The big numbers: Ninety-four percent of Austinites would vouch for Austin’s beauty, while 82 percent said it’s easy to find love in the city. There’s clearly a connection there…

📍 Discover the best things to do in Austin

43. Boston

What makes us great: If you’re looking for charming neighborhoods, iconic landmarks and sometimes overbearing accents, you’ve come to the right place. Between strolling the historic Freedom Trail, exploring the Museum of Fine Arts and eating your way through the North End, the list of things to do in Boston is endless. Despite the citywide 2am closing time, nightlife here is as vibrant as ever, from the chic bars in Back Bay to the more eclectic scene in Cambridge. Boston in 2024 remains a hub of innovation and tradition, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a city that can do both this year.

Visit now because: The Back Bay just became home to the first Raffles in North America – a pretty knock-out pad to base yourself at while you get stuck into Boston’s better-than-ever restaurant scene.

The big numbers: Locals gave major props to Boston’s art and culture scene, which got a respectable 75 percent approval rating.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Boston

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44. Accra

What makes us great: With over 4 million people , Accra is nothing if not lively. New bars, restaurants and galleries continue to spring up and find their place in the rhythm of bustling markets, honking motorists and raving nightlife. Largely thanks to its day parties and DJ sets, Accra is increasingly becoming a favourite holiday destination – especially during the festive months. It’s also a hub for learning and creativity, with Africa’s biggest photography and archive library, Dikan Center , recently opening in the city. The rise of galleries, studios and curated art exhibitions happening across Accra have transformed parts of the city into vibrant hubs for creative gatherings, nurturing a grassroots artistic community and cementing Accra as Africa's new favourite art destination.

Visit now because: Accra is positively humming with exciting new ventures across music, nightlife and the arts. Creative dining space Palm Moments hosts Accra’s hottest nightlife trend, Fake Fridays , every last Thursday of the month, while Accra’s Imullar Sound System is a daytime event featuring killer live DJ sets. In the art world, Thursday Lates is a monthly series of free art exhibitions, showcasing the latest from the city’s emerging creatives.

The big numbers: Accra scored a stunning 100 percent happiness score, with the same percentage of locals saying the seaside city was beautiful to look at.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Accra

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45. Marseille

What makes us great: Distinct from any city in France – or the world for that matter – Marseille is an intriguing mix of big-city swagger and southern coastal charm. It has all the cool street art and sleek architecture you’d want from a city break, while also offering the chance to sail the Mediterranean and hike the limestone cliffs of Calanques National Park . A port city that’s been around for over 2,600 years, Marseille is home to a myriad of cultures, reflected in the Armenian delis, Algerian rappers and Tunisian restaurants. The dynamic culinary scene embodies the city’s appealing mix of old and new, from iconic 1943 pizzeria Chez Etienne to meat-centric hotspot Bouillon . Food has also fed the many social impact projects, like Après M , a former McDonald’s that’s now a food bank, community hub and job training centre.

Visit now because: Chosen over other French coastal cities, Marseille will host sailing events for the Paris 2024 Olympics between July 28 – August 9. Summer kicks off with the multi-cultural Festival de Marseille (June 14 – July 6) and wraps up with the Kouss Kouss Festival (last week of August), where over 100 restaurants get creative with the classic Maghreb dish.

The big numbers: With 92 percent of locals saying it’s easy to make friends in Marseille, the coastal city is up there as one of Europe’s friendliest.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Marseille

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46. Taipei

What makes us great: The fact that Taiwan is the first Asian country to legalise same-sex marriage speaks volumes about its progressive stance, and Taipei is the liberal heart of the island. Modern skyscrapers and the Miramar Ferris Wheel might dominate the skyline, but in their shadows you’ll find colourful temples and Hokkien-style old houses. Visitors can enjoy savoury local treats and cuisines from around the world, a fantastic nightlife scene and abundant natural beauty (the city sits beside several rivers and is surrounded by mountains). Best of all, Taipei is affordable, and the convenient transportation system enables you to get around the city with ease.

Visit now because: The Taipei Dome – Taiwan's first indoor baseball stadium – opened in December, and will house approximately 14 restaurants that will start running in the first half of the year. Next door, Eslite 's Songyan outlet is scheduled to begin operating in late January – a 24-hour bookstore not to be missed by bookworms.

The big numbers: Eighty-eight percent of Taipei locals would call their hometown beautiful, while the city’s eating and drinking scene scored an impressive 90 percent approval rating.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Taipei

47. Istanbul

What makes us great: Once the capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, Istanbul is now the dynamic and cosmopolitan heart of Türkiye. The city is packed with historical riches – take the Topkapi Palace, the Basilica Cistern, the Hagia Sophia, the Grand Bazaar and the Blue Mosque, to name a few. Those who want to experience Istanbul’s buzzing social life should head to the lively areas of Kadikoy, Galata, Besiktas or Karakoy. The Bosphorus on the European side is, of course, one of the most beautiful parts of Istanbul – make sure to visit the neighborhoods of Ortakoy, Arnavutkoy, and Bebek, take a walk on the coastal promenades and spend a morning in one of many cosy cafés. Istanbul Modern , Türkiye's first modern and contemporary art museum, was recently renovated and reopened in a new location and is a must-see. Finally, there’s the immense clubbing scene – we recommend Klein Phönix , Frankhan , Mini Müzikhol , and Gizli Bahçe .

Visit now because: In 2022, Istanbul’s restaurants were featured in the Michelin Guide for the first time. Michelin-starred Turk is a shining example of the city’s colourful and innovative dining scene, headed up by chef Fatih Tutak whose modern interpretation of traditional Turkish flavors is truly fantastic.

The big numbers: A whopping 100 percent of Istanbul residents said their city was beautiful. When you see the shimmering Bosphorus and the Blue Mosque’s miranets silhouetted against the sunset, you’ll see why.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Istanbul

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48. Osaka

What makes us great: Japan has one of the fastest-ageing populations in the world, but you wouldn’t know it from walking through the bustling streets of Osaka . The city has a decidedly youthful spirit, jam-packed with boisterous standing bars and affordable food stalls. It’s easy to see why Osaka is hailed as ‘the nation’s kitchen’. There are the okonomiyaki (savoury pancake) restaurants and kushi-katsu (deep-fried skewer) counters. Sashimi at car park-turned-outdoor-eatery Izakaya Toyo and two-Michelin-starred La Cime , ranked eighth on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list . Then there’s the city’s rich history, found in landmarks like the sixteenth-century Osaka Castle, and a community of locals known for their uninhibited and friendly nature. Is it any wonder Osaka was chosen to host the World Expo 2025?

Visit now because: Following the success of the world's first Super Nintendo World, opened in 2021, Universal Studios Japan is set for an exciting upgrade this spring with an all-new Donkey Kong-themed area . Building on Super Nintendo World’s real-life video game features, Donkey Kong Country promises more opportunities for visitors to interact with their surroundings using their Power-Up Bands, as well as a hair-raising mine cart rollercoaster.

The big numbers: Luckily for locals, eating out in the kitchen of Japan won’t batter the bankcard, as Osaka’s food scene was given a very impressive 88 percent affordability score.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Osaka

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49. Hong Kong

What makes us great: 2024 marks the first year since 2020 Hong Kong is fully open to the world again, ushering in the return of many exciting events . It’s still one of Asia’s most unique places to visit, particularly when it comes to food – the city has a distinct street food scene and its open-air dai pai dongs are perfect for budget travellers, while those with a bit more cash to splash can head to any number of Michelin-starred restaurants and restaurants with scenic views of the Victoria Harbour . It’s also surrounded by nature, with plenty of outdoorsy activities such as hiking , coasteering and canyoning to get stuck into – and its brunch scene is popping. In March, Hong Kong cements its status as Asia’s art hub with the full-scale return of Art Basel and Art Central , where a mix of local and international artworks will be showcased alongside enhanced programmes at M+ and the Hong Kong Palace Museum . New attractions include the world's first Frozen-themed land at Hong Kong Disneyland and the near-completion of Kai Tak Sports Park .

Visit now because: Hong Kong's bars are regularly crowned on prestigious lists – check out the city’s OG-hidden bar 001 and the new Cantonese-inspired bar Kinsman , followed by breathtaking skyline views at Cardinal Point .

The big numbers: Hongkongers rightfully rate their city’s good looks, with 88 percent saying they find Hong Kong beautiful.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Hong Kong

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50. Vancouver

What makes us great: Vancouver is the kind of city in which climbing a nearly three-kilometre mountain trail is considered a good time. But there’s more to the West Coast metropolis than just hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, snowboarding, and skiing. The city is as much a summertime destination as it is a wintertime one – locals flock to beaches and events such as the Celebration of Light fireworks extravaganza, the Vancouver International Jazz Festival, and Khatsahlano , a street party in one of the city’s most photogenic neighbourhoods. Year-round, Vancouver is – outside of Japan – the unofficial sushi capital of the world, and boasts an exciting contemporary foodie scene with nine one-Michelin-starred restaurants. A hip new spot, Andrea Gail , is very Vancouver: the décor is punk, the food vegetarian, and it’s located near a shipping yard.

Visit now because: Drinking in Vancouver has never been more exciting than it is right now. For craft beer aficionados, no trip is complete without a visit to Storm , one of the city’s oldest and boldest. And cocktail lovers will swoon over the selection at Key Party , a speakeasy hidden behind a faux accountancy firm storefront.

The big numbers: Vancouver could well lay claim to being Canada’s prettiest city, with 94 percent of locals saying they found the city beautiful (beating Montreal by 2 percent).

📍 Discover the best things to do in Vancouver

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These are the world's five most-visited cities

A golden age for tourism in cities such as Bangkok

.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo{-webkit-transition:all 0.15s ease-out;transition:all 0.15s ease-out;cursor:pointer;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;outline:none;color:inherit;}.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo:hover,.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo[data-hover]{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo:focus,.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo[data-focus]{box-shadow:0 0 0 3px rgba(168,203,251,0.5);} Sean Fleming

.chakra .wef-9dduvl{margin-top:16px;margin-bottom:16px;line-height:1.388;font-size:1.25rem;}@media screen and (min-width:56.5rem){.chakra .wef-9dduvl{font-size:1.125rem;}} Explore and monitor how .chakra .wef-15eoq1r{margin-top:16px;margin-bottom:16px;line-height:1.388;font-size:1.25rem;color:#F7DB5E;}@media screen and (min-width:56.5rem){.chakra .wef-15eoq1r{font-size:1.125rem;}} Travel and Tourism is affecting economies, industries and global issues

A hand holding a looking glass by a lake

.chakra .wef-1nk5u5d{margin-top:16px;margin-bottom:16px;line-height:1.388;color:#2846F8;font-size:1.25rem;}@media screen and (min-width:56.5rem){.chakra .wef-1nk5u5d{font-size:1.125rem;}} Get involved with our crowdsourced digital platform to deliver impact at scale

Stay up to date:, travel and tourism.

The global travel and tourism industry is worth an estimated $8.8 trillion a year and much of that growing economic activity is concentrated among a narrow group of destinations.

In its Global Destination Cities Index 2019 , which tracks visitors and their spending habits, Mastercard found that numbers were up by an average 6.5% year-over-year since 2009, with tourism expenditure growing up an average of 7.4%.

Some of the most-visited cities are experiencing much higher than average growth. With the 2020 Olympics being held in Japan next year, Tokyo (currently 9th) is forecast to see growth in excess of 10%.

Here are the top five destination cities as featured in the 10th annual Mastercard Global Destination Cities Index:

5. Singapore

In 2018, 14.76 million overnight visitors went to Singapore – that’s the measure Mastercard uses to differentiate between visitors and those on a short stopover.

Half of the top cities on the list are in the Asia-Pacific region, which has registered the largest increase in international travellers since 2009, growing 9.4%.

Singapore is riding a wave of growing tourist visits

Once there, visitors to Singapore were relaxed about spending their money, pushing the city to number four in the list of where tourists spent the most.

The Data for the City of Tomorrow report highlighted that in 2023, around 56% of the world is urbanized. Almost 65% of people use the internet. Soon, 75% of the world’s jobs will require digital skills.

The World Economic Forum’s Centre for Urban Transformation is at the forefront of advancing public-private collaboration in cities. It enables more resilient and future-ready communities and local economies through green initiatives and the ethical use of data.

Learn more about our impact:

Net Zero Carbon Cities: Through this initiative, we are sharing more than 200 leading practices to promote sustainability and reducing emissions in urban settings and empower cities to take bold action towards achieving carbon neutrality .
G20 Global Smart Cities Alliance: We are dedicated to establishing norms and policy standards for the safe and ethical use of data in smart cities , leading smart city governance initiatives in more than 36 cities around the world.
Empowering Brazilian SMEs with IoT adoption : We are removing barriers to IoT adoption for small and medium-sized enterprises in Brazil – with participating companies seeing a 192% return on investment.
IoT security: Our Council on the Connected World established IoT security requirements for consumer-facing devices . It engages over 100 organizations to safeguard consumers against cyber threats.
Healthy Cities and Communities: Through partnerships in Jersey City and Austin, USA, as well as Mumbai, India, this initiative focuses on enhancing citizens' lives by promoting better nutritional choices, physical activity, and sanitation practices.

Want to know more about our centre’s impact or get involved? Contact us .

Less than 60 years ago, Dubai was a fishing village . Today, the emirate has a population of more than 3 million. And last year, their numbers were boosted by 15.93 million visitors.

Famed as a centre for shopping and as a destination for conferences and exhibitions, when it comes to how much money visitors spend in their chosen destination, Dubai dominates. In 2018, visitors spent a whopping $30.82 billion.

Big Ben. Parliament. Buckingham Palace. London is full of famous landmarks. So it’s small wonder 19.09 million people went there last year.

However, London was the only city in the top 10 to experience a fall in visitor numbers – a drop of 4% that saw it slip from last year’s second-placed spot.

The UK’s top 10 visited attractions are all in London, according to the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions , which lists the Tate Modern art gallery (5.86 million), the British Museum (5.82 million), and the National Gallery (5.73 million) as the city’s big three draws.

London’s loss was Paris’ gain, as it moved up the rankings from three to two, with only marginally more visitors than the UK’s capital. It might not have a monarchy, but there is plenty of pomp and splendour to see in Paris - not to mention the Louvre, the world’s most visited museum.

Of the 10.2 million people who descend through its glass pyramid entrance each year, about 80% are believed to come just to see the Mona Lisa.

Paris – reflecting on an increase in visitor numbers

Disneyland Paris, which opened in 1992, casts a long shadow over the rest of the city’s tourist attractions. In the 25 years between opening in 1992 and 2017, it had 320 million visits, making it Europe’s top tourist destination .

It has contributed $75 billion (€68 billion) to the French economy , and represents 6.2% of France’s tourism revenue.

Have you read?

Venice will now start charging tourists an entrance fee, why tourism policy needs to use more imagination, you might soon be travelling without a passport – this is how.

Hanging on to the top spot for the fourth year running, Thailand’s capital welcomed more than 22 million visitors last year.

According to the World Travel and Tourism Council’s 2018 data, Thailand has the largest tourism economy in Southeast Asia. The $70.1 billion that tourists spent there last year accounted for 20.8% of Thailand's export earnings, the WTTC said.

But being heavily dependant on one sector can put an economy at the mercy of global trends. A strengthening Thai currency and a slowdown in the global economy could impact Thailand’s tourism income, Mastercard said.

In the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report 2019 , the number of international tourist arrivals worldwide reached 1.4 billion, with emerging economies contributing larger proportions of travellers to this global trend.

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America's Most Visited Cities

The United States is home to some of the most amazing cities in the world. No matter where you are from or what you look for in a travel destination, there is a little bit of something for everyone. From New York City to Boston , visitors witness memorable skylines and historical monuments commemorating the rich history of each city. Each year the United States is graced with millions of tourists each year looking for their own slice of the nation to explore. Now, read on if you want to understand the hype behind these incredible places.

The 10 Most Visited Cities In The United States

Data procured from The International Trade Administration

1. New York City - 6,992,000

The bustling Times Square in New York City.

Let's kick off this journey in the Big Apple! With the hustle and bustle of city life, New York City(NYC) presents itself with features that undoubtedly make it an exciting place for visitors. Central Park , a remarkable spread of green, spans 843 acres, and sights of yoga classes or horse carriages are to be expected. Now, when you think of towering structures, NYC doesn't disappoint. With around 314 skyscrapers dotting its skyline, there's no doubt that the city reaches impressive heights. Amongst its significant landmarks, the 9/11 Memorial is poignant, occupying eight out of the sixteen acres at the World Trade Center. And for those intrigued by animals and history, The Bronx Zoo, established in 1899, provides education with 843 animals dwelling in 22 exhibits. Ultimately, the five boroughs ensure there's always something to explore, and for our beloved visitors, the magnitude of NYC allows for emergent adventures at every turn.

2. Miami - 4,086,000

Sun, sea, and a touch of history! Miami brings you closer to nature and architecture like no other. The city gleams with the Art Deco Historic District, sheltering over 800 historically significant buildings that tell a story of design evolution. Taking a sharp turn towards festivities, Miami's Calle Ocho Festival paints the town in the vibrant colors of Hispanic celebrations. But that's not all; this is a city where visiting a castle made entirely by hand is possible. Coral Castle, crafted painstakingly by Edward Leedskalnin, is an astounding construction of 1,100 tons of coral rock. Beyond its sandy shores and festive streets, Miami introduces visitors to the wild side, with the Everglades National Park waiting just west of the city limits. Last but not least, anyone seeking a luxurious voyage will note that Miami houses the world's largest cruise ship port.

3. Orlando, Florida - 2,920,000

A crowd of visitors walking towards the entrance of the Universal Orlando Resort theme parks

Orlando , often termed the "City Beautiful," is more than just theme parks. With over 100 lakes decorating the city, visitors get a chance to relax thanks to the former citrus industry's water needs. Now, how about some focus on the unusual – Gatorland is a park that has been acquainting people with alligators and crocodiles since 1949. For those keen on space and technology, the launch site for SpaceX at Cape Canaveral is a sight into the future of American ambition. However, art lovers might be more interested in the world's most extensive collection of Tiffany glass, found in the Morse Museum. And if that wasn't enough, the Orlando Science Center has provided 'edutainment' since 1955, while the surprising revelation of Lake Eola being a sinkhole adds another layer of mystery. Beauty, mystery, and human prowess: there is a reason the beaten path to Orlando is heavily traveled, after all.

4. Los Angeles, California - 2,750,000

Hollywood Boulevard, a popular tourist area in Los Angeles, at dusk.

There is a story behind every corner in Los Angeles . Did you know that the globally recognized Hollywood Sign once flashed the words "Hollywoodland" to onlookers? The history of how this town grew into an iconic cultural powerhouse is embedded in these types of stories and sights. For example, stargazing at Griffith Observatory is often paired appropriately with braving the waves at Zuma, Santa Monica, or Venice Beach. For those passionate about the world of animals, the Los Angeles Zoo keeps 2,200 species on exhibit, and it has become a staple-stop since its inception in 1966. But if you are more into folk art and bizarre crafts, the Watts Towers are the mosaic result of Simon Rodia's 34-year dedication. Visitors also come far and wide to engage in their love for sports: Dodger Stadium is the focal point of that intrigue, with a seating capacity that surpasses 56,000. Add to that, with over 100 museums in the vicinity, visitors are never short of revolutionary experiences.

5. San Francisco, California - 1,739,000

Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco at sunset.

San Francisco's legacy can be felt with every step on its over 50 hills. An engineering marvel, the Golden Gate Bridge, which came into existence in 1937, has since become a symbol of the city. Although, beyond the bridges and buildings, there is a peculiar history. Alcatraz Island , with its notorious past as a federal prison, is an icon of villainy and a forgotten industrial era. That era is not all doom-and-gloom; cable cars that have been efficiently running since 1873 in the city add a new flavor to transportation. Visitors, especially seafood sharks, find themselves spoilt for choice at Fisherman's Wharf, where countless seafood vendors display their fresh catch. The city's resilience is also worth noting, as it rose from the ashes after the 1906 earthquake and subsequent fires. And for those with an eye for architecture? The Painted Ladies, colorful Victorian and Edwardian structures, are the definition of admiration.

6. Las Vegas, Nevada - 1,660,000

Aerial view of the thriving downtown of Las Vegas, Nevada.

From shimmering lights to thrilling highs, Las Vegas serves excitement on a silver platter. For those feeling lucky, there is no shortage of places to test your fate, with over 150 casinos and gambling joints ready to roll the dice. While the Strip is an attraction in itself, drawing in over 38 million total visitors each year, it is the Stratosphere Tower that provides a bird's-eye view like no other, being the tallest freestanding observation tower in the U.S. Taking a step back in time, the Neon Boneyard offers a nostalgic journey, preserving the illuminated memories of old Las Vegas signs. On a lighter and tastier note, a fun fact for the visitors: around 60,000 pounds of shrimp are enjoyed daily in the city! Finally, for those seeking a blend of nature and engineering, the Hoover Dam stands proudly just 30 miles southeast, concluding our dazzling tour of Las Vegas — No wonder international visitors just cannot get enough of this unstoppable metropolis.

7. Washington D.C. - 1,167,000

Pennsylvania Avenue and United States Capitol Building inWashington D.C.

To step into Washington D.C . is to face the totality of the country's decisions and dreams. While the three branches of the federal government operate here, they are not the sole highlights. Bookworms would be elated to know that the Library of Congress, located here, possesses over 39 million books. A visitor could spend days, if not weeks, exploring the Smithsonian Institution's 20 museums, with displays of authentic spacecraft and ancient relics. On the streets, every turned corner reveals monuments and memorials. The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial in West Potomac Park is a reminder that civil change is possible, however costly. Another foundational stop is the White House, which many feel is representative of the greatest concentrated power on the planet. Lastly, the city's global connectivity is evident, with around 177 foreign embassies residing in D.C. If that is not a welcoming reality to international visitors, what is?

8. Chicago, Illinois - 1,061,000

Chicago River flowing through downtown Chicago.

There is a certain energy about Chicago that can be felt the moment one steps into the Windy City. Once ruling the skies, the Willis Tower dominated as the tallest building globally for a quarter-century. Now, there is actually more to the city than skyscrapers. Imagine a river flowing backward! The Chicago River does just that after engineers pulled off the impossible and reversed the flow. Stretching its arms into Lake Michigan, the Navy Pier has curated the memories of romantics and entrepreneurs for over a century. While the pier might now cater to modern pleasures, Chicago's history is flavorful, evident in every slice of deep-dish pizza that originated here (although, in my New Englander opinion, is it not just tomato soup in a bread bowl?). Moving on to parks and monuments, Millennium Park, with its Cloud Gate, or as many call it, "The Bean," reflects the city's spirit and sky. As for the sport-inclined, cheering for the Chicago Cubs at a home game is an experience hard to forget. Chicago, after all, knows how to make its visitors feel right at home.

9. Boston, Massachusetts - 738,000

Quincy Market, a historic market complex near Faneuil Hall in downtown Boston

Stepping back into the past, Boston is a time capsule of early American victories in the name of colonial freedom. For instance, the Boston Tea Party of 1773 was a bold call for independence, and apparently, there are still remnants of British tea at the bottom of Boston Harbor. Then we have Fenway Park, decorated by the legendary green monster, which has achieved the title of one of the world's oldest baseball stadiums. However, what truly encapsulates the essence of this historic city is the Freedom Trail. Meandering through a stretch of 2.5 miles, it guides those curious about the past, connecting them to pivotal sites like Paul Revere's house – a resilient structure from the 1600s right in the city center. For visitors, the greatest difficulty when it comes to traveling to Boston is tearing themselves away because there is always more to see.

10. Honolulu, Hawaii - 711,000

The beautiful Waikiki Beach in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Visiting the heart of the Pacific might make one feel worlds away from the usual, and Honolulu does not disappoint its 2.7 million foreign guests. With a city framed by azure waters, Diamond Head serves as a towering reminder of Earth's dramatic geologic power. A visit to Honolulu is not merely about sun and sand; it is about the legacies of the people who first stepped foot on the island chain. Iolani Palace, wearing the crown of distinction as the only royal palace in the U.S., is a privilege to experience for those with a leaning toward nobility. However, tracing history takes a solemn note at Pearl Harbor , where thousands died in the infamous WWII attack. Elsewhere, Waikiki Beach attracts a colossal number of visitors, and photos and selfies from the beach have established it as a social media mainstay. Meanwhile, the Bishop Museum hosts one of the largest collections of Hawaiian artifacts. However, for guests to truly witness the spirit of Hawaii, the Merrie Monarch Hula Festival is an essential event to experience.

An upstart country filled with upstart cities, it is fitting that each metropolis is in constant competition to outdo the next. That drive for bigger and better is ultimately a boon for the traveling visitor, both domestic and foreign. The grandness comes from the reality that each location is made up of countless blends of immigrants and cultures, allowing for the greatest flavors to shine brightest. Visitors are always invited to contribute to each city's mosaic, provided they have the financial means — but then again, that's America for you!

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South Carolina

This South Carolina Destination Was Just Named the No. 1 City in the U.S. by T+L Readers — Here's Why

With a fantastic new Filipino restaurant, the opening of the International African American Museum, and an ever-expanding luxury hotel scene, it's easy to see why T+L readers' old standby stays relevant and exciting year after year.

Charleston, South Carolina, has once again charmed Travel + Leisure readers, winning the top spot in the 2023 World's Best Awards ' favorite cities in the U.S. category for the 11th year in a row. Last year, the South Carolina city earned a coveted spot in the WBA Hall of Fame .

Readers especially loved Charleston's thriving culinary scene and easy walkability, all doused with Southern charm.

The dining scene, of course, spotlights Southern cuisine, with fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, hush puppies, and she-crab soup as staples. Charleston's must-try dishes include the okra soup at Bertha's Kitchen ; biscuits from Callie's Hot Little Biscuits ; deviled crabs from Dave's Carry-Out ; and crab rice from Hannibal's Soul Kitchen .

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

The restaurant hype continues to surge with several new openings in the last few years, like Bevi Bene Brewing ; Sorelle , which just opened in February 2023 with a wine room and a pizza counter; and Raw Lab , an omakase-style raw bar. Perhaps the biggest restaurant news of this year is the opening of Filipino restaurant Kultura , by Chopped champion Nikko Cagalahan , which just started welcoming diners this month.

Other additions to the Charleston culture scene include the long-awaited International African American Museum in June 2023. The luxury offerings are also on the rise, with a new Soho House coming in next year.

The new hot spots add a fresh perspective to a city steeped in history — another aspect that resonated with T+L readers. Fort Sumter National Monument ; Historic Charleston City Market ; Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum ; Magnolia Plantation and Gardens ; Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens ; and Rainbow Row all offer a look into Charleston's past. The Charleston Heritage Federation preserves its history through centuries-old homes and museums, while the Historic Charleston Foundation holds an annual Festival of Houses and Gardens in the spring for an inside look at some the nation's most beautiful homes.

The 9 Most Visited Cities in the United States

By Rachel Chang

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

We all have our go-to vacation destinations—the places that dot your daydreams and find their way onto your physical itineraries time and time again. For those who live here, getting to many of the most visited cities in the US is relatively simple thanks to daily flights and the multitude of iconic American road trips . From the bustling energy of New York City to the showmanship of Las Vegas , the beauty of the United States is that every urban center has its own personality, luring travelers in for a taste of its distinct culture. Visitors come in droves to immerse themselves in city life, whether that's with a side of sunshine or skyscrapers.

To help dig into the destinations travelers are honing in on, we looked at the International Trade Administration's data as it clocked in overseas travelers’ visitation last year (2023 data is forthcoming) to see which big cities are getting the most traffic. Without further ado, here are the top nine most visited cities in America—and the reasons people can't get enough of them.

1. New York City

Annual overseas visitation: 6.99 million

The beauty of New York City never sleeping is that it’s constantly evolving. In recent years, the city’s iconic staples—the Empire State Building , Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty —have been joined by fresh landmarks like The Edge (the western hemisphere’s highest outdoor sky platform), Summit One Vanderbilt (a high-tech observation deck in Manhattan’s tallest skyscraper), the Museum of Broadway (an immersive exhibit through the history of the Great White Way), and Gansevoort Peninsula (Manhattan’s first sandy beach).

Even longtime staples have found ways to reinvent themselves. The American Museum of Natural History debuted a new $465 million Richard Gilder Center for Science wing this past spring, Top of the Rock just launched The Beam experience for visitors to recreate the iconic 1932 ironworkers lunch photo, and The Tour at NBC Studios reopened last month with four new video exhibits . Buzzy new hotels are also on the city scene, like the recently opened The Fifth Avenue Hotel in Nomad, The Warren Street Hotel (opening this February in Tribeca), and The Surrey, A Corinthia Hotel, New York (opening next spring on the Upper East Side). The top of the year is one of the best times to visit, with NYC Hotel Week offering up to 24 percent off rooms, Broadway Week with two-for-one tickets, and Restaurant Week serving up prix fixe menus at a discount.

Annual overseas visitation : 4.09 million

Come for the beach, stay for the culture—there’s no doubt that there’s always a good time to be had in Miami . But while it used to revolve mainly around South Beach and Ocean Drive , where it was all about seeing and being seen, the range of experiences is so much richer these days.

Take, for example, the neighborhood of Wynwood . The former garment district had fallen into disarray until a renaissance started in the early 2000s—in the form of graffiti art. Now 35,000 square feet of walls are covered by colorful murals at Wynwood Walls , transforming the entire area into arguably the hippest district right now. Visit the Museum of Graffiti , Nader Art Museum Latin America , and Bakehouse Arts Complex , before grabbing a bite at Spanglish Craft Cocktail Bar + Kitchen , Zak the Baker , or the Japanese speakeasy Hiden .

Elsewhere in Magic City, the 10-mile-long urban park The Underline is opening in phases; a new branch of Soho House, Miami Pool House , is set to open in 2024; and the city’s highest tower, the whimsical 1,049-foot-tall Waldorf Astoria Residences is taking over the skyline.

Annual overseas visitation : 2.92 million

Endless family fun draws visitors from all over the world to Orlando year-round, thanks to the allure of Walt Disney World , Universal Orlando Resort , SeaWorld Orlando , and Legoland Florida Resort . To add to the list, the first new theme park in decades is on its way: Universal Epic Universe , which will include a Super Nintendo World and is set to welcome guests in 2025.

Contrasting the fantastical experiences, Orlando is also filled with natural experiences. Take your pick from birding at Gatorland Bird Rookery , kayaking with Epic Paddle Adventures , or zip lining at Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Garden . Also notable: an eco-friendly, faster rail service Brightline , traveling between Miami, Boca Raton, and West Palm Beach debuted in September. For large groups seeking some sunshine, the long-anticipated Evermore Resort —opening January 1, 2024—is specifically built for crowds, offering two- to 11-bedroom vacation rentals.

4. Los Angeles

Annual overseas visitation : 2.75 million

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The spotlight always shines so naturally on Los Angeles that it’s easy to overlook the fact that the southern California hub has grown up right in front of our eyes—and continues to do so. Always-trendy neighborhoods like Silver Lake and West Hollywood mix with those finding new life in recent years like Downtown’s Arts District and Culver City . LA's 75 miles of coastline is boosted by the glamor of the film and television industry, marked by the iconic Hollywood Sign celebrating its 100th anniversary this month. And getting an inside look at all the movie magic is easier than ever these days, with four studios bringing visitors onto their working studio lots: Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood , Sony Pictures Studio Tour , Paramount Studio Tour, and the original, Universal Studios Hollywood , with its trademark backlot tram tour celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2024.

This year marks the opening of Destination Crenshaw , four acres of cultural space with pocket parks and the country’s largest Black-led public art project. Also next year, the Natural History Museum will debut a $75 million project, NHM Commons, adding 75,000 square feet of space, while LACMA is set to open a new David Geffen Galleries building for its permanent collection. To top it off, the Intuit Dome will become the new home court of the Los Angeles Clippers.

All over the city, distinct boutique hotels are capturing L.A.’s personality in their own ways. Old-school Hollywood class and sass shines at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel , while a chill, laid-back downtown vibe radiates at The Hoxton , where the rooftop bar has a direct view of the Crypto.com Arena, which will unveil a bronze Kobe Bryant statue in February. Other recent openings include The Shay in Culver City, The Winfield in DTLA’s Jewelry District, and Alsace LA Hotel in West Adams.

5. San Francisco

Annual overseas visitation: 1.74 million

There's too much to do in San Francisco in a single visit, which may be precisely why it's among the five most visited cities in the US: Hop on a cable car , drive down curvy Lombard Street , climb to the top of Coit Tower , eat your way through the country’s oldest Chinatown , and even go bison-gazing in Golden Gate Park . The Presidio Tunnel Tops , which opened in 2022, has quickly become one of the new favorite public spaces, while the Landing at Leidesdorff pedestrian space offers pop-up cultural programming. Beloved museum The Exploratorium has opened a public art project in Civic Center Plaza, Middle Ground: Reconsidering Ourselves and Others . Experiences are also going more high-tech, as origami store Paper Tree launched an augmented reality origami tour in partnership with Adobe.

This fall, the Asian Art Museum opened its East West Bank Art Terrace , a 7,500-square-foot with city views. The 654-acre Filoli recently made headlines when President Joe Biden visited in November—the Georgian revival mansion and 16 acres of English gardens are located about 30 minutes south of the city in Woodside. New hotels are opening in full force, including The Jay in Jackson Square, Hotel Julian in Nob Hill, and SoMa House in the south of Market District.

6. Las Vegas

Annual overseas visitation: 1.66 million

As Google’s top searched flight destination of 2023, no doubt your social media feeds have been trending with footage from the many concerts—namely U2 —at The Sphere , proof that Las Vegas always knows how to put on a show. The Irish band continues its debut series on select dates through March and will hand off the baton to Phish in April, but visitors can always immerse themselves in the stadium at The Sphere Experience . The city also set the scene for the first Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix last month and will continue to steal the show by hosting Super Bowl LVII in February.

Events aside, Vegas is also experiencing a new wave of celebrity-helmed eateries. Last year, the Jonas Brothers’ family ’s Nellie’s Southern Kitchen opened in MGM Grand, bringing the distinct flavors of its original Belmont, North Carolina, location’s home cooking to The Strip. The Bedford by Martha Stewart also opened in 2022, modeled after her 1925 farmhouse in upstate New York, and Blake Shelton will be opening a branch of his Ole Red next month. The hotel scene also got a major boost this month with the opening of Fontainebleau Las Vegas , a 3,600-key mega hotel with a 150,000-square-foot casino. Fun fact: Justin Timberlake, Tom Brady, Cher, and Paul Anka all attended its opening celebration.

7. Washington, D.C.

Annual overseas visitation: 1.17 million

The best thing about visiting the nation’s capital is that the itinerary writes itself. Just head to the Washington Monument , and you’ll be right in the center of The Mall , with the Lincoln Memorial to the west, the White House to the north, the Jefferson Memorial and Tidal Basin to the south, the Capitol on the east, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial to your southwest. And all around the circumference are Smithsonian museums—all free of charge—for every interest. (Note that free timed-entry passes are required for the popular National Air and Space Museum .)

But venture further and newcomers are complementing the historic center. Planet Word , an immersive museum about the origins of language, opened in 2020 in a historic schoolhouse. Across the way, the Asian American-owned Eaton DC merges a hip hotel with community living. After a two-year renovation, the National Museum of Women in the Arts has reopened, and the Hirshhorn Sculpture Garden is being spruced up ahead of its 50th anniversary next year. And just making its debut in the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery is a portrait of Oprah Winfrey , which will be on display through October 20, 2024.

The Wharf district also expanded last year, bringing along with it Pendry Washington DC - The Wharf . Also new in town: the 807-room Westin Washington, DC Downtown , putting fitness at the forefront with the city’s biggest exercise studio, a 10,000-square-foot space, and a spotlight on its RunWestin program with routes throughout the capital—one of the best ways to truly get to know the city.

Annual overseas visitation: 1.06 million

There's a good reason Condé Nast Traveler readers have voted for Chicago as the best big city in the country for the seventh year running. After all, the Midwestern hub blends together the most vibrant elements: striking architecture (best experienced on a river cruise tour ), expansive museums (the lakeside Field Museum has more than 40 million artifacts and specimens), and eateries helmed by top chefs (Stephanie Izard’s Girl & the Goat remains a game-changing favorite, while Virtue ’s Damarr Brown won a James Beard Award for emerging chef).

Wander through Millennium Park , with its trademark Cloud Gate structure (better known as The Bean), pop into The Art Institute of Chicago , catch a game at Wrigley Field , stroll The 606 elevated trail—and of course, make time for a Chicago hot dog and deep-dish pizza ( Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Company flips the pie over on your plate). New accommodations this fall include the Neighborhood Hotel in Little Italy and The St. Regis Chicago in the world’s tallest building designed by a female architect.

Annual overseas visitation: 738,000

Boston is a city that's always on the move—and it encourages visitors to do the same. One of the best ways to dive deep into its history is by following the 2.5-mile Freedom Trail , connecting 16 of the most significant sites ranging from Boston Common to Bunker Hill Monument. Last year, the Innovation Trail made its debut going from downtown to Cambridge, tracing more than 400 years of scientific breakthroughs rooted in the city. This past summer also marked the opening of the Walking City Trail , connecting 17 neighborhoods on a 27-mile path. Don't forget about the city's most famous route: the Boston Marathon , the most elite of the six Abbott World Marathon Majors runs, which is set to take the streets again for the 128th time on April 15, 2024.

But of course, there’s plenty of downtime to be had as well. Grab a drink with Sam and the gang at the Cheers Boston bar (head upstairs for a replica of the set), dine at The Newbury Boston ’s rooftop restaurant Contessa (don’t miss the squash carpaccio), and stroll the Boston Seaport for waterfront views. As for setting up a home base, consider checking in at the new Raffles Boston (Raffles' first hotel in all of North America) or The Envoy Hotel, Autograph Collection .

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Making Sense Of The World, One Map At A Time

Top 100 International Tourist Destination Cities By Country

Which city is the most popular international tourist destination? Surprisingly, it’s not Paris, London or New York.

According to 2012 data from Euromonitor International , the number one tourist destination in the world was Hong Kong with 23.7 million visitors.

Singapore and Bangkok were ranked numbers 2 and 3 respectively, showing just how much Asian tourism has grown in recent years. London, at number 4, was the top ranked non-Asian city with 15.5 million international visitors and New York City, at number 8, was the most visited city in the Americas with 11.6 million tourists.

When looking at countries as a whole, the map at the top of the page is revealing. At first glance it shows just how few African countries made the list. Another interesting finding is that while London is the 4th most visited city, it’s the only UK city to make the list. Moreover, while many European countries have top 100 cities (Switzerland being a notable exception) none has more than Italy’s 4.

But that’s nothing compared to the big 3 who dominate the list:

India has 6 cities on the list: Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Kolkata.
The United States has 8: New York City, Las Vegas, Miami, Los Angeles, Orlando, San Francisco, Honolulu, Washington D.C.
And, China has whopping 9 cities: Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, Hangzhou, Zhuhai, Suzhou, Guilin, Nanjing.

Plus, this doesn’t include Hong Kong (#1) and Macau (#5), which ae both Special Administrative Regions of the People’s Republic of China .

Below are the complete rankings. Please note if you click on a city you’ll be taken to HotelsCombined where you can compare the cost of local hotels:

The data all comes from this Euromonitor International report . I’d strongly encourage you to read it if you’re curious about their methodology and other interesting findings.

If you’d like to learn about the growth of international tourism, have a look at the following books:

Overbooked: The Exploding Business of Travel and Tourism
Rick Steves Travel as a Political Act
1,000 Places to See Before You Die, the second edition: Completely Revised and Updated with Over 200 New Entries

Did your favourite city not make the list? Let us know in the comments below:

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Sporxx says

March 10, 2015 at 2:09 pm

How about Jerusalem?

March 11, 2015 at 3:20 am

The results are biased. HK does get a massive flow of tourist but this can be explained by the fact that HK airport is a massive hub (works the same for Singapore airport). It’s not a touristic destination in itself, providing the tourist facilities out of HK international airport (very few) and the time people actually spend in hk. It’s more a stop over than a touristic destination. Then, you have the flow of Chinese tourists that cross the border on week ends to go shopping in HK. sqame situation, they benefit to the economy but can they actually be counted as part of the touristic industry ?

So yes, in term of people you can rank it that way but the figures do not say what kind of flows arrive to HK.

Warren Lauzon says

January 20, 2018 at 8:41 pm

No, it is not based on inbound flights. It is based on the fact that thousands of mainlanders walk across the border every day to buy non-contaminated baby formula.

turnipcake says

March 15, 2015 at 8:43 pm

As Sa said concerning Hong Kong, this list measures arrivals of tourists, I assume, at the cities’ international airports (see report). This does not show how long tourists stay in these cities, if at all. Many of the cities are close to interesting historic and scenic areas.

July 4, 2015 at 1:32 pm

Hong Kong first ? Is it a joke ? There’s nithing to see there ! Nothing, comparing to Paris, London, NYC or Beijing…

January 20, 2018 at 8:40 pm

It counts mainland tourists, who can walk across the border. But as far as “nothing to see” – have you ever actually been there?

January 20, 2018 at 9:18 pm

Yes, I’ve been there several times. Besides shopping and a few sites, what can you see there. Paris, for example, is much much more worth it.

January 21, 2018 at 8:34 pm

Funny.. I had the same impression of Paris. Once you see the Eiffel tower and a few other sites, there is not much “there” there except for overpriced restaurants and snooty bakeries 😀

Manamana says

July 26, 2015 at 11:12 am

In Poland Krakow gets much more turists than Warsaw

Rental Italy says

October 12, 2016 at 12:43 pm

Rome on 12th place, lower than Shenzhen and Macau… Wuite surprising results.

emmettbrady says

December 26, 2016 at 12:47 am

that list seems like a load of nonsense

Raj Kishor Kannoujea says

January 6, 2017 at 12:58 pm

Nice job! but need to more.

Helmut Kremers says

March 10, 2017 at 12:58 pm

Munich had 14.1 million visitors last year – and that wasn’t even the best, so how come it isn’t on the list?!

Rahul gupta says

April 24, 2017 at 7:05 am

india brautiful country with lots of diversity and more than 22+ official language having wonders of the world filled with colors and more than 2000+ local language and world second largest English speaking nation having desert ,hills,mountain,snow fall ,largest green forest,.i think it is a pack of whole European + africa. it has lots of beautiful beaches in then having world almost every religion ,here you get temple,mosque ,churchs,and many more

SIDDHANT GARG says

May 5, 2017 at 5:09 pm

apart from India more places should you visit

Bhupinder Singh says

September 12, 2019 at 5:09 pm

If India is such a wonderful place, why does everyone want to leave?

Rental24H says

January 12, 2018 at 4:55 pm

woooww! very nice photos~! good luck

Kanika Bakshi says

January 2, 2019 at 5:02 am

India is a beautiful country with lots and different culture. you will be able to learn more about its culture, traditions and languages with different food recipes.

Jonathan Ridgway says

April 14, 2019 at 12:18 am

This is list is sooo inaccurate. Business insider has a more correct list.

Kaushal Soni says

September 29, 2019 at 4:17 pm

Loved it, Insightful List!

Patricia Kavanagh says

December 22, 2019 at 9:39 am

Echo sentiments above. HK is a transport hub. Much more complex than first seems. India already has large population so will skew figures for there.

Chiku Cab says

January 28, 2020 at 11:17 am

Hey, nice post and very informative, Thanks for sharing this information.

April 4, 2020 at 8:42 am

Here is an interesting fact about the list. Turkish city Edirne has only 200K population and not so much touristic to get in this list on 62th place in the world and 4th in Turkey. Why is it here? Because Edirne covers the western border of Turkey between Bulgaria and Greece and so the EU. It is not just touristic numbers, it is also industrial transportation and transit passages all over to Turkey. This list is not accurate.

Aman Kumar says

September 26, 2020 at 7:06 am

now its very old

Kirti Pathak says

January 5, 2021 at 3:43 pm

You have list top 100 list but I think you can add some more to it.

Big Cab varanasi says

September 10, 2022 at 8:50 pm

Very informative post… Thanks for sharing

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US tourism top cities stats round-up post

The U.S. has been named the world’s largest travel and tourism economy — making it a great place to own an attraction or tour business.

Cities like Orlando and New York easily top the charts of most-visited in the country. Meanwhile, smaller cities like Boise and Savannah are quickly rising in the rankings as domestic travelers hit the road.

In this post, you’ll find the most up-to-date U.S. tourism statistics by city.

What percentage of the US economy is tourism?
How much do Americans spend on travel and tourism each year?
What is the number one tourist destination in the US?
What US city spends the most on tourism?

What are the top 20 US cities with the most tourists?

Top 20 fastest-growing us cities for tourism.

What are the top 20 least-visited cities in the US?

What percentage of the US economy is tourism?

Travel and tourism’s share of GDP fell from 2.9% in 2019 to a historic low of 1.7% in 2020.

In 2021, the total tourism GDP amounted to nearly 1.3 trillion U.S. dollars, which was 22% higher than the previous year but still below pre-pandemic levels.

How much do Americans spend on travel and tourism each year?

In 2019, both domestic and international travelers spent $1.1 trillion in the U.S.

Domestic travelers alone spent $972 billion in 2019, which represented a 4.4% increase from 2018.

Domestic travel spending fell to $642 billion in 2020 as a result of travel restrictions caused by the pandemic.

In 2021, domestic travel spending shot back up to $838 billion .

What is the number one tourist destination in the US?

While NYC is often named the No. 1 tourist destination in the U.SOrlando has been smashing records with its 75 million visitors.

The Central Florida destination home to world-famous Disney theme parks has become the most-visited in America. Orlando became the first destination in the country to surpass 70 million visitors in 2017.

In 2018, Orlando welcomed a record-breaking 75 million visitors, securing a spot among the most popular cities around the world. That number rose to 75.8 million in 2019, until plunging to around 35 million in 2020.

The city’s tourism industry started to pick back up in 2021 as Covid restrictions began to ease. Orlando drew 59 million visitors in 2021, with international visitors still lagging behind pre-pandemic norms.

What US city spends the most on tourism?

Las Vegas, for instance, is fueling hundreds of millions of dollars into tourism marketing for the 2022-2023 fiscal year. The city’s tourism authority has a $398 million budget to promote the destination and reel in visitors, its biggest budget yet.

Meanwhile, New York City launched its largest-ever campaign in 2021, valued at $30 million . Orlando has followed suit with a new $28.5 million global campaign to bring both tourists and business owners back to the city.

These are the top 20 most-visited U.S. cities, according to pre-pandemic visitor numbers.

Orlando ( 75.8 million )
New York City ( 66.6 million )
Chicago ( 57.6 million )
Atlanta ( 57 million )
Los Angeles ( 50 million )
Philadelphia ( 46 million )
Las Vegas ( 42 million )
San Antonio ( 41 million )
San Diego ( 35 million )
Dallas ( 27 million )
San Francisco ( 26.2 million )
Kansas City, Missouri: ( 25 million )
Washington D.C. ( 24.6 million )
Miami and Miami Beach ( 24.2 million )
Boston ( 22.7 million )
Houston ( 22.3 million )
Seattle ( 21.3 Million )
New Orleans ( 19.75 million )
Denver ( 17.7 million )
Nashville ( 16 million )

From Georgia to Montana, these are the fastest-growing tourism destinations in the U.S.

1. Boise, Idaho

In 2018, Boise was named the fastest-growing city in the country. People continued flocking to the destination even during the pandemic, mainly for outdoor travel. A record 7.6 million people visited Idaho’s state parks in 2020. Lucky Peak State Park, which is located just outside of Boise, was the most-visited; the park welcomed over 1 million visitors for the first time.

2. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

The popular beach destination in South Carolina welcomes 19 million visitors annually. The Myrtle Beach area’s population is expected to grow exponentially — over 80% — over the next four decades.

3. Providence, Rhode Island

Providence is the fastest-growing city in Rhode Island. The state welcomed 21.6 million visitors in 2020, a 17.5% decline from 2019.

4. Milwaukee County, Wisconsin

The Greater Milwaukee area represents 26% of the state of Wisconsin’s tourism economy. In 2019, tourism was up in Milwaukee, with over 29 million visitors traveling to the destination.

5. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia set a record in 2019 with 46 million visitors , representing 10 consecutive years of growth. The city is well on its way to recovery from the pandemic. About 36 million people visited in 2021, a 21% increase from 2020.

6. San Diego, California

Before Covid, the sunny California city of San Diego hosted about 35 million visitors each year. In 2021, the city welcomed 24 million people and held the fourth-highest hotel occupancy rate (74%) in the nation.

7. Bozeman, Montana

Visitors are flocking to Bozeman to visit the nearby Yellowstone National Park: The Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport welcomed a record 1.94 million passengers in 2021.

8. Dallas, Texas

Over 27 million people visit Dallas each year. Meanwhile, DFW International Airport already surpassed pre-Covid passenger numbers in May 2022 .

9. Las Vegas, Nevada

In 2019, Las Vegas welcomed 42.5 million visitors , up from 42.1 million in 2018. Las Vegas has the most hotel rooms than any city in the U.S., and there are thousands more in the pipeline.

10. Savannah, Georgia

In 2019, an estimated 14.8 million visitors spent $3 billion in Savannah. The city’s tourism industry is beginning to rebound from the aftermath of the pandemic, with a big boost in visitor spending in 2021. That year, visitors funneled $3.3 billion into the local economy.

11. Bend, Oregon

Bend is a big summer destination in Central Oregon, which welcomes about 4.5 million visitors each year.

12. New Orleans, Louisiana

In 2018, New Orleans welcomed 18.5 million visitors, a 4% increase from the previous year. The destination’s visitor numbers doubled from 2014 to 2018. In 2019, the city welcomed 19.75 million visitors. The state of Louisiana is rebounding quicker than expected, with events like the Jazz and Heritage Festivals in New Orleans welcoming record numbers .

13. Vail, Colorado

An average of 1.2 million people visit Vail in the summer, compared to about 1.7 million in the winter. As pandemic restrictions ease, more and more people are hitting the slopes, which is great for big ski destinations like Vail. The 2020-2021 winter season was the fifth best ski season on record, with 59 million skiers flocking to ski resorts.

14. Memphis, Tennessee

About 10.7 million visitors traveled to Memphis, Tennessee in 2021. Hotels were nearly as full as pre-pandemic times during the first three months of 2022, proving that the destination is quickly bouncing back.

15. Greenville, South Carolina

Greenville welcomes an estimated 5.5 million visitors every year. Hotel occupancy in the South Carolina destination was up 32.8% in 2021, compared to 2020, and down only 5.3% compared to 2019.

16. Orlando, Florida

Orlando is one of Florida’s most popular destinations. The city welcomed 59.3 million visitors in 2021, compared to just 35 million the year prior. During the first quarter of 2022, Florida’s total visitor numbers were up 38% from the same period in 2021

17. Key West, Florida

About 5 million visitors traveled to the Keys in 2018. In 2019, Key West welcomed about 1 million cruise passengers and just over 2 million land-based visitors. In May 2021, the Keys experienced a record-setting 84% hotel occupancy rate . Meanwhile, the occupancy rate in Key West alone hit 91% — with a whopping daily hotel rate of $412.

Nearly 66,000 arrived in January of this year at Key West Airport, more than ever before during the month of January.

18. St. Louis, Missouri

Before the pandemic, St. Louis attracted about 25 million visitors per year. About 7.6 million people visited the city’s top museums and tourist attractions in 2021. That’s a big improvement from the mere 3 million that visited in 2020.

19. Scottsdale, Arizona

Over 11 million people visit Scottsdale, Arizona annually. The destination attracted 4.7 million domestic overnight visitors; 1.7 million international overnight visitors; and 4.6 million domestic day trip visitors in 2019.

20. Austin, Texas

Austin, known as the live music capital of the world, attracts over 30 million domestic visitors every year. The city’s hotel revenue is expected to exceed 2019 numbers, with over $620 million already generated this summer.

What are the top 20 least-visited cities in the US?

1. Boise, Idaho: While the 7.6 million people that visited Idaho’s state parks in 2020 is remarkably less than the numbers seen in more popular places like NYC, they did set a new record for the city.

2. Charleston, South Carolina: About 7 million tourists a year visit Charleston, which is repeatedly ranked as the No. 1 city in the U.S.

3. Portland, Maine: About 5.4 million people visit the Greater Portland region each year.

4. Sioux Falls, South Dakota: About 1.3 million people visited in 2021.

5. Flagstaff, Arizona: Flagstaff welcomes nearly 6 million visitors every year.

6. St. Augustine, Florida: About 2.5 million people visit St. Augustine.

7. Asheville, North Carolina: About 10 million people visit Asheville annually.

8. Santa Fe, New Mexico: In recent years, an average of 2 million overnight visitors have visited Santa Fe each year.

9. Salem, Massachusetts: An estimated 500,000 people visit Salem every October for the destination’s Halloween events.

10 . Beaufort, South Carolina: Nearly 2 million visitors arrive in Beaufort each year.

11. Salem, Oregon: About 2.5 million people visited in 2019.

12. Duluth, Minnesota: About 6.7 million people visit Duluth every year.

13. Knoxville, Tennessee: Over 5 million visitors stayed overnight in 2020.

14. Columbus, Ohio: The Greater Columbus region welcomed 43 million day and overnight leisure visitors in 2019.

15. Twin Falls, Idaho: Shoshone Falls and Dierkes Lake attract over 300,000 visitors each year. From March to May 2021, the visitor center recorded 24,800 visitors , which surpassed 2019’s visitor numbers.

16. Louisville, Kentucky: Louisville attracts 16.4 million visitors annually.

17. Baltimore, Maryland: In 2019, 27 million people visited Baltimore.

18. Greenville, South Carolina: Greenville welcomes an estimated 5. 5 million visitors every year.

19. Tacoma, Washington: Tacoma draws over 3 million visitors each year.

20. Bend, Oregon: Bend and the surrounding Central Oregon region welcome about 4.5 million visitors each year. It’s one of the fastest-growing tourism destinations in the state.

Whether you’re already running a tourism business or just starting one, you’re in the right place at the right time.

Writer Carla Vianna

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Top Tourist Cities In The USA

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There are many remarkable places located in the United States. From small towns to bustling cities, and beautiful coastlines this country seems to have it all. But where exactly is the best place for visitors? We searched for places that have the best attractions from historic sites to thrilling activities as well as top places for tourism. Here is our list of the top tourist cities in the USA that are worth visiting.

New York City, New York

More than 50 million visitors travel to New York City every year making it the number one tourist destination in the USA. New York City is known for its diverse culture and world-renowned attractions. During your stay in the Big Apple be sure to take a free boat ride from Manhattan to Staten Island to check out the Statue of Liberty and to take in the breathtaking view of the Manhattan skyline. You may also enjoy visiting the Metropolitan Museum of Art, catch a show on Broadway, or stop by Times Square where you will see costumed characters and towering billboards. When you’re ready to escape the hustle and bustle of the city be sure to check out the serene Central park. Finally, before you leave don’t miss your chance to try the city’s famous New York-style pizza.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas, also commonly known as Sin City, lures all different types of travelers from all over the world. Whether you’re looking for world-class entertainment, luxury hotels, or to test your luck at one of the city’s many famous casinos, Las Vegas has it all! Las Vegas is also known as a culinary destination as world-famous chefs come here to show off their work! During your stay be sure to stroll along the famous Vegas Strip. But if you’re hoping to avoid all the top touristy hot spots you may want to venture outside of the city where you can go hiking and sightsee. Some great places include Hoover Dam, Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, and Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. With so much to see and do you certainly will not get bored on this trip!

New Orleans, Louisiana

Louisiana’s “Big Easy” is definitely worth a spot on your bucket list. This beautiful city is full of culture, personality, and plenty of exciting attractions. One of the best times to visit is during the city’s annual Mardi Gras celebrations. The city is also rich in music and is renowned for jazz, blues, and rock ‘n’ roll. In addition to music, you’ll also get to taste delicious food from gumbo to beignets and beyond! During your stay be sure to check out Bourbon Street in New Orleans’ oldest neighborhood, the French Quarters. This historic street is bustling and full of famous bars!

San Francisco, California

San Francisco is the 16th most populous city in the U.S. and the fourth most populous in California. This beautiful city is a popular tourist destination and is known for its cool climate, fog, steep rolling hills, and famous landmarks. Some must-see landmarks include the Golden Gate Bridge and the former Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary. We also highly recommend riding a cable car, and checking out the city’s Chinatown district! The city is also known for many food trends and boasts plenty of vibrant and trendy restaurants, rooftop bars, and cafes. Finally, San Francisco and the surrounding Bay Area is considered a global center of the sciences and arts where you can check out cultural institutions such as the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, SF Jazz Center, the California Academy of Sciences, and more. Make sure to pack a pair of comfortable shoes because there will be plenty of exciting things to do and see on this trip!

Seattle, Washington

Seattle is home to many famous attractions which makes it a very popular tourist destination. Start your day by ordering a cup of coffee at one of the city’s trendy cafe’s. Seattle takes their coffee seriously so you know you’re about to get a good cup of java. Then be sure to check out the world’s first Starbucks. Next, you need to check out Pike Place Market which happens to be one of the oldest and most famous farmers markets in the U.S. Your trip won’t be complete without a stop at the city’s most famous landmark, The Space Needle. Just be sure to pack an umbrella as the city is known for rain!

Napa Valley, California

Wine country is calling your name if you love all things wine and scenic views. There are over 400 wineries located in Napa Valley which lure in nearly four million visitors each year. This beautiful place boasts a stunning landscape and a small-town atmosphere that you are really going to love. The wineries offer everything from exquisite wine tastings, delicious food, and shopping. Some of the best wineries include Castello di Amorosa, Chateau Montelena Winery, and Sterling Vineyards but there are many other notable wineries too. While wine may steal the spotlight during your visit to Napa, there are other sites worth visiting. These include Skyline Wilderness Park, Old Faithful Geyser of California, and Calistoga’s Petrified Forest.

Portland, Oregon

Many people can attest to the fact that it’s hard to leave after a visit to Portland. This laid back city is home to some of the friendliest people and offers its guests delicious dining opportunities as well as breathtaking landscapes. You’ll enjoy the trendy cafes, bustling restaurants, and beautiful hiking trails. During your stay be sure to visit the city’s Japanese Garden. It happens to be one of the biggest Japanese Gardens outside of Japan. The city is also renowned for its breweries and offers you amazing craft-beer.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Endless sand and surf await you in Hawaii’s capital, Honolulu. This breathtaking city is surrounded by a stunning landscape and with so much nature at your disposal, you will surely need to take advantage of the many outdoor activities such as surfing, snorkeling, kayaking, horseback riding, and more making it one of the best cities to visit in USA . You may also enjoy checking out the Pearl Harbor Historic Site, Diamond Head (a dormant volcano and famous landmark), the Honolulu Zoo, or the beautiful Hanauma Bay.

Sedona, Arizona

If you love the outdoors you are going to love Sedona, Arizona. This beautiful desert community is surrounded by some of the Earth’s oldest rocks and is commonly referred to as Red Rock Country. There are also plenty of magnificent landmarks worth seeing such as the Chapel of the Holy Cross, Bell Rock, Oak Creek Canyon, and the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village. Just when you think the beautiful sunsets are some of the most breathtaking scenes on earth, Sedona’s night sky will astound you. After a day of exploring you can retreat to one of the city’s award-winning spas or wellness centers. The city also has plenty of luxurious resorts where you can stay.

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is America’s third-largest city and offers something for everyone from world-class museums to sporting events and amazing food. Your trip to the Windy City will not be complete without trying the famous Chicago-style hot dog, deep-dish pizza, and Italian beef sandwich — trust us, it’s worth indulging on this trip! You may also enjoy checking out Millennium Park’s iconic “Bean” sculpture as well as the amazing collections at the Art Institution of Chicago or take in the scenery on a river cruise. Willis Tower, America’s tallest building is also worth seeing and you should also consider catching a comedy show at The Second City theater where several famous comedians got their starts such as Tina Fey and Mike Meyers.

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

Featured city guides.

Moscow Became the Best Travel Destination of 2019

Apart from Moscow, the category featured such cities as London, New York, Lisbon, Paris, Saint Petersburg, Sidney, Rio de Janeiro, and others. The awards ceremony took place in the city of Muscat, Oman, on November, 28. “World Travel Awards is a quality mark, and it means that Moscow is consolidating its positions as one of the world’s travel capitals. Moscow has a rich history and culture, it is a city with one of the biggest economies of the world, a huge busy metropolis. Tourists coming to Moscow from all parts of the world get positive impressions, unique experience and feel comfortable and secure. The best proof is the appraisal of travelers who voted for our city along with the world travel industry professionals. It is a great honor for us to win such a prestigious award! I am sure that we have many global wins ahead!”,– Yekaterina Pronicheva, Chairman of the Moscow City Tourism Committee, said.

Moscow was nominated to the World Travel Awards 2019 in three major categories: “World’s Leading City Destination”, World’s Leading Festival & Event Destination, and World’s Leading Sports Tourism Destination. Additionally, the award organizers nominated Moscow in two more categories: World's Leading Business Travel Destination and World's Leading Cultural City Destination. Winners were chosen in an open vote held at the Award’s official site until October 20.

In 2019, World Travel Awards have been granted in 80 categories. The winners are hotels, airlines, tour operators, cities, resorts, and attractions. All in all, there were more than 1,000 participants in 2019.

Except for Moscow, among Russian participants in different categories were cities (Kazan, Saint Petersburg), airlines (Aeroflot), hotels (Mamaison All-Suites Spa Hotel Pokrovka, Radisson Royal Hotel, Swissôtel Krasnye Holmy, Lotte Hotel), restaurants (City Space) and tourist companies (Academservice).

In 2019, Moscow’s tourist flow has been growing. During the first 9 months of 2019, Moscow received 19.5 million tourists. During this period, Moscow received 753.8 thousand tourists from China, 267.8 thousand from Germany, 121.7 thousand from France, 118.4 thousand from Italy and 113.6 thousand from Israel.

The most typical guests of Moscow – people younger than 34 y.o., so-called “millennials” (the generation born between 1981 and 1996) – are the most active visitors. They visit the capital to get new impressions; they are attracted by numerous festivals, sporting events, and cultural scenes.

The capital currently has 1,718 hotels. The annual occupancy rate of the capital’s properties equals 77 %, which is comparable with that of Amsterdam, London, and Paris. Moscow is also a traditional point of tourist interest on the New Year holidays. Four and five-star hotels near Tverskaya Street are the top performers: 95 % of their rooms are occupied during the New Year holidays.

In Moscow, there are 1,691 certified guides and interpreters who conduct tours in 26 different languages, and 1,972 guides who conduct tours in Russian and work for the local travel market.

Marina Zatsepina, with more than 15 years experience in Marketing in Tourism Industry, Marina is our expert in promotion on the Russian market. She worked in position of Marketing Director in one of the biggest tour operators in Russia, before to organize in partnership with Natalia Klimenok it's own enterprise. She graduated from Penza State University (Russia) with specialization in Public Relations, and has Master Degree in Russian-English Translation from Kent State University (USA). Recently Marina works in BAGINET PR and Consulting Agency as Commercial Director.

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Study ranks Chicago as most walkable city in America for tourists

By nbc chicago staff • published april 20, 2024 • updated on april 23, 2024 at 10:26 am.

With summer on the way and tourism ramping up in Chicago, a recent study shows that there is plenty of reason behind the appeal of traveling to the Windy City.

The study, conducted by Preply , analyzed major U.S. cities and measured how easy it was to navigate each city's most recognizable tourist landmarks on foot.

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Compared to European cities that are known for being walkable, the expansive and car-dependent nature of many American cities makes it much more difficult to see what a city has to offer without a vehicle.

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The study found that Chicago is the most walkable city for tourists in the U.S. by this metric, with it taking just 28 minutes to explore the city's most famous landmarks, including "The Bean" or "Cloud Gate" and the Magnificent Mile.

The brisk pace in Chicago is miles ahead of Orlando, which the study ranked as the least walkable city for American tourists.

According to Preply, it takes over 11 hours and 65,100 steps to cover Orlando's major landmarks on foot.

The only other cities where major landmarks can be seen within an hour on foot were Nashville and Dallas, taking 33 minutes and 41 minutes, respectively.

Rounding out the top five were Santa Fe and New Orleans, each requiring between 6,000 and 7,000 steps and less than an hour and 15 minutes to see the major attractions.

In addition to The Bean and the Magnificent Mile, Preply included Millennium Park itself, The Art Institute of Chicago and the Chicago Architecture Center as the spots that could be seen within 28 minutes of walking.

Outside of Chicago, Milwaukee was the lone U.S. city to crack the top 15, coming in at 15th at 2 hours and 35 minutes of walking and 14,280 steps.

You can see how other major American cities ranked along with more information about the study here.

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