From buzzing capitals packed with art and culture to hidden gems tucked away in the mountains, these 25 cities will have you saying only one thing: “Right, I’m off!”
Whether you’re after inspiration for your next romantic getaway, a solo adventure or a family escape, Travel + Leisure has rounded up 25 cities you just have to experience for yourself.
Ever wandered down alleyways painted entirely blue, crossed a bridge suspended over the sea, or sipped a cocktail while gazing at a skyline full of lights and big dreams?
On this journey through some of the world’s most beautiful cities, you’ll find it all: jaw-dropping architecture, pockets of nature nestled in the urban jungle, and cultures that’ll steal your heart at first glance.
Surf, skyline and one seriously dreamy bay. The Opera House and Harbour Bridge aren’t just landmarks, they’re the welcome sign to a city full of sunshine, sea and energy. Hop on a ferry to Manly Beach and prepare to fall for the Aussie coast.
An irresistible mix of history, wine and old Caucasus legends. The old town feels like something out of a fairytale, with wooden balconies, hidden courtyards and the smell of fresh khachapuri in the air. Watching the sunset from Narikala Fortress? Pure magic.
Futuristic and full of life, Singapore is a feast of flavours, colours and cultures. From the towering Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay to the hawker centres serving up finger-licking street food, it’s a place you’ll explore with all five senses.
The city of love… and perfect design. From the Eiffel Tower to the backstreets of Le Marais, every corner of Paris feels like a work of art. Between a macaron and a stroll along the Seine, let yourself be charmed by this timeless diva.
A golden-yellow dream filled with lanterns and canals. Hội An is pure poetry – tailor shops, ancient temples and buzzing night markets. And the bike? Easily the best way to explore every corner.
Gaudí, tapas and golden beaches. Barcelona is open-air art, with the Sagrada Familia and Parc Güell stealing the show. Don’t skip a late-night dinner with views over La Rambla.
Adrenaline and postcard-worthy views. Think glacial lakes, dramatic mountains and every extreme sport you can imagine. Queenstown is a dream for anyone who loves nature turned up to full volume.
A bridge between two continents and a thousand different eras. Majestic mosques, maze-like markets and epic sunsets over the Bosphorus… Istanbul pulls you in with its energy and mouthwatering food.
Hills, cable cars and ocean views – San Francisco is a constant showstopper. From the Painted Ladies to the Golden Gate Bridge, every corner’s camera-worthy. Don’t miss a wander through the mural-covered streets of the Mission District.
Sicily in all its raw glory. Palermo is a symphony of Arab and Norman architecture, buzzing markets and the smell of freshly fried arancine in the air. Hop on a scooter (or one of those little three-wheeled Ape trucks!) and head off to explore its authentic soul.
Where mountain meets sea. With Table Mountain on one side and dreamy beaches on the other, Cape Town is ideal if you’re after a mix of adventure, culture and excellent wine.
A futuristic metropolis with an ancient heart. Seoul blends traditional palaces, glittering skyscrapers and a nightlife that barely stops to breathe.
Colour, music and tropical vibes. Cartagena greets you with flower-filled balconies, colonial walls and sunsets over the Caribbean Sea. Ready to dance to the rhythm of salsa?
Temples, cherry blossoms and steaming teapots. Kyoto is all about delicate beauty – think zen gardens, lanterns and geishas vanishing into the shadows of Gion.
A burst of nature and non-stop energy. Iconic beaches, jaw-dropping views and nights alive with samba rhythms. Rio is pure electricity.
The Eternal City and not by accident. Every step is a stroll through history, from ancient forums and grand fountains to pasta dishes worthy of a standing ovation.
Classic, modern, and impossible to resist. London is a mash-up of eras and cultures, with free museums, vintage markets and green parks perfect for lounging with some fish and chips and a craft beer.
Pure passion. With tango, steakhouses and architecture that feels a bit like Paris, Argentina’s capital oozes charm with a bold, carefree edge.
Like stepping onto a film set but better. With ancient city walls and sweeping views over the Adriatic, the “Pearl of the Mediterranean” is a journey through time and beauty.
Red rock energy and a touch of zen. The landscapes around Sedona look like they’ve been carved by the heavens. Between canyons and stargazing, the beauty here feels almost spiritual.
Blue, blue, and more blue. This magical city at the foot of the Rif Mountains is something else. Every corner looks made for Instagram (but honestly, it’s more of a heart-stealer than a photo-op).
Skyscrapers, temples and buzzing night markets. Taipei is fast-paced, welcoming and home to street food that’s dangerously addictive.
Mysterious and full of drama. Edinburgh is like stepping into a gothic novel, with castles, cosy pubs and romantic hills. Visiting in August? You’ll catch the Fringe Festival, when the whole city turns into an open-air stage.
A living colonial painting. With pink churches, cobbled lanes and art galleries around every corner, this Mexican city has a bohemian soul that’s hard to resist.
Skyscrapers, parks, jaw-dropping museums and a mix of cultures that make it truly one of a kind. Central Park, the MoMA, a slice of pizza and suddenly, you’re in a movie.
Not sure where to start? Save this list and pick your top five to tick off over the next few years. Whether you’re into zen vibes, buzzing metropolises, mountain villages or seaside cities, one thing’s for sure: the world’s full of wonders… and we can’t wait to help you discover more!
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