Top Cities in the World to Visit
When planning a hip getaway, there are many factors to consider, but among the most obvious is a simple question: What are the best cities to visit? Are you looking for history? An active nightlife? Isolation? Adventure? Something completely off the beaten path? The good news is, whatever it is you’re in search of, there’s a city in the world that meets your needs. Obviously famed destinations like London, Paris, and Rome come to mind, but, if you dig a little bit deeper, many other places will draw your attention. A lot of places you may not have considered yet are worth a longer look. We’ve taken the time to pull together ten cities that rank among the best for whatever your travel needs might be. So pack that suitcase. Open up your passport — it’s about to get stamped.
Mexico
A little-known Mexican city steeped in history, Puebla was actually the site of the Battle of Cinco de Mayo, an important victory for the Mexicans and now co-opted by drunk girls shooting tequila while yelling “Ariba!” The city boasts an array of Spanish architecture and its famed Cathedral of Puebla’s twin towers are the tallest in the country. Visitors can also indulge in the local cuisine and try the mezcal, if they’re feeling daring. And any visit to Puebla should be capped off with a walk down the city’s famous Candy Alley, a two-block sojourn through a wide array of confectioners. Definitely visit on an empty stomach.
Indonesia
One of Indonesia’s hidden jewels, Yogyakarta has something for the culture hound as well as the thrill seeker. Visitors can marvel at Prambanan Temple, the largest Hindu temple in Indonesia. Or, if you prefer, hop over to Borobudur Temple, which happens to be South East Asia’s largest Buddhist temple. Looking for something a bit more awe-inspiring? Mount Merapi, Asia’s most active volcano, is worth the trip. Keep in mind that it erupts every five to 10 years (the last one occurred in 2010). Tread carefully. For an unforgettable experience, you can try roping into Jomplang Cave, a massive underground structure full of lush greenery. When the sun streams through the holes in the cave roof, you’ll think you wandered into an Indiana Jones movie.
Egypt
Cairo is a city that breathes thousands of years of history in every stone under your feet. The Great Pyramids of Giza are just one part of your trip (albeit an essential one). Take a cruise on the Nile, indulge in the array of sweet shops around the city, drink in the stunning Muslim architecture that abounds and, most importantly, take in the thriving nightlife. Cairo is literally a city that doesn’t sleep. Shops, clubs and restaurants stay open well into the dawn and beyond. You won’t sleep much during your stay in Cairo, but you also won’t miss laying around in bed either.
New Zealand
Auckland is an adrenaline junkie’s paradise. Whether it’s bungee jumping from the city’s Sky Tower or the Harbour Bridge or sea kayaking around Waiheke Island, there is something for daredevils of every stripe. But the thrills are only one element of a visit to Auckland. The region offers plenty of incredible hiking and stunning vistas, from verdant parks and botanical gardens to dormant volcanoes. If you prefer to keep things more on the mellow side, you can stop by the Auckland Art Gallery, where the country’s largest collection of Maori items can be found, or stroll through the city’s various bustling markets.
Belgium
A popular tourist destination ever since the 2008 release of the black comedy In Bruges, this Belgian city is full of medieval charm and rustic beauty. With its cozy inns and old bridges stretching over tranquil canals, Bruges is the perfect place to unwind and let your troubles slip away. One “can’t-miss” experience is the 366-step climb to the top of the Belfry. Once you’re there, you’ll enjoy a panoramic view of the entire city. If the climb makes you hungry, take the city’s “chocolate walk,” a leisurely and picturesque stroll that takes you through a host of chocolate shops, with flavors you’ve likely never even imagined before.
Switzerland
Most people know about this Swiss city for the lake that furnished its name. And trust us, the lake alone is well worth the trip. You can enjoy its beautiful vistas via paddle boat or on foot or cross over the Chapel Bridge, the oldest truss bridge in Europe. For more land- based adventures, take a cable car ride and 10-minute hike to the top of Mount Pilatus, which offers unbeatable views of the Alps. Take the time to get lost in the Old Town, with its colorful timber-frame buildings and idyllic, narrow side streets that twist and wind in all sorts of directions.
Scotland
Scotland itself should be a “must-stamp” stop in any traveler’s passport, but its capital city is truly the stop you’ll want to make first. Edinburgh Castle, the ancient fortress that dominates the city’s landscape, should be top of your itinerary, as well as Calton Hill, which lets you drink in a view of the whole city from its peak. If you want to feel like royalty for a day, board the Britannia, Queen Elizabeth’s former royal yacht, now permanently docked in Edinburgh. You’ll also want to visit the Royal Mile, the center of Edinburgh and a street filled with a number of secrets, including a hidden grave, a maze of underground streets (called closes) and a place where you can spit on the sidewalk for good luck!
Austria
The birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Salzburg is a city rich in musical history. It’s also the place where the smash hit movie The Sound of Music was filmed, and there are plenty of tours that will take you through all the locations. You might want to try the bicycle tour, which lets you get close to places you can’t access on the bus tours. If classical music is what makes you smile, then be sure to visit Mozart’s birthplace, and take in one of the regular concerts around the city that pay tribute to the famous composer. Located at the edge of the Eastern Alps, Salzburg also has a wide range of mountain activities, from hiking and biking in the warmer months to skiing in the winter. Visit during the holidays to enjoy the city’s Christmas markets that offer a wide array of seasonal goodies and charms.
South Carolina
This southern locale has charmed visitors from all over the world for years and consistently been ranked among the best American cities to visit. Spend some time there and it’s easy to see why. From its charming cobblestone streets to its fabulous walled gardens, Charleston quickly brings you under its spell. A key strategic point in both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, Charleston is also history buff’s dream. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic district and drink in the sights of moss-covered oaks and luxurious mansions, some of which are open for tours. Make time to travel down Rainbow Row, a group of Georgian row houses painted in pastel colors. You can also visit antebellum plantations and graveyards that date back to the country’s earliest days. Its seaside location also allows beachgoers to keep themselves well occupied with charming scenic spots and tranquil islands to visit.
Japan
Considered by many to be the cultural center of Japan, Kyoto is a city that welcomes more than a half million tourists every year. Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a 385-year-old Buddhist temple that was built without using a single nail (it’s a World Heritage Site). The city also has a number of samurai strongholds, including Nijo Castle, home of the Tokugawa Shoguns, the one-time rulers of Japan. Be sure to visit some of the city’s famed teahouses and restaurants, and sample delicious Michelin-starred dining (and what some claim is the best sake in all of Japan). If you have a sweet tooth, Kyoto is famous for its various confections made with matcha green tea, from ice cream to parfaits. Be sure to visit the Gion district to take in the bustling streets, shrines and markets. You’re also certain to spot a geisha, as the performers regularly entertain travelers with traditional songs and dances.
CHEAT SHEET
For more on the best cities in the world to visit, also see:
· Time Out - The 37 Best Cities in the World
· Forbes - The World’s 15 Best Cities
· Afar – The World’s 25 Best Cities in 2022