20 Best Cities to Visit in the World

Lisbon is the capital of Portugal and a city that blends old-world charm with a modern ambiance. Known for its hilly landscape, the city offers stunning viewpoints, known as miradouros, where you can soak in panoramas of the cityscape overlooking the Tagus River. Lisbon's rich maritime history is celebrated in the eponymous museum, while the iconic Tram 28 gives you a unique way to traverse the undulating hills as it winds through narrow streets past historic landmarks. From a live fado performance in Alfama, where the soulful music captures the essence of Portuguese culture, to witnessing the Age of Discoveries statue, Lisbon stands out as one of the best cities to visit in the world.

Highlights: Belém Tower • Jerónimos Monastery • Alfama District • São Jorge Castle • Praça do Comércio

Recommended length of stay: 3-4 days

Learn more: Portugal Tours & Vacations • Portugal Travel Guide

Tokyo is a city of contrasts, where ancient traditions meet futuristic technology. As the most populous city in the world, Tokyo offers a diverse range of experiences, from participating in a traditional tea ceremony to exploring the vibrant Akihabara district known for electronics shops and otaku culture. Tokyo's culinary scene is unmatched, boasting more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other city globally. Seasonal festivals, like the cherry blossom festivals in spring, add to its allure as you navigate efficient public transportation or dine in an izakaya with locals.

Highlights: Shibuya Crossing • Sensō-ji Temple • Meiji Shrine • Tokyo Tower • Tsukiji Outer Market

Recommended length of stay: 4-5 days

Learn more: Japan Tours • Japan Travel Guide

Buenos Aires is often called the "Paris of South America”, focusing on how European elegance meets South American passion. Its European-style architecture, vibrant street art scene, and lively tango music define the cosmopolitan atmosphere. A tango lesson in San Telmo or a visit to a local milonga has its own way of introducing you to the city's cultural heart. The Recoleta Cemetery features Argentina's elite in eerie and beautiful ways, making it a unique attraction. Argentine cuisine, especially its world-renowned beef, is featured in parrillas found throughout a city blending history, culture, and flavor.

Highlights: La Boca Neighborhood • Recoleta Cemetery • Teatro Colón • Plaza de Mayo • Giardino Garibaldi

Recommended length of stay: 3-4 days

Learn more: Argentina Tours & Vacations • Argentina Travel Guide

Rio de Janeiro is synonymous with vibrant energy, stunning landscapes, and cultural richness. Famous for its Carnival, one of the largest festivals in the world, Rio is a city that knows how to celebrate. The dramatic mountains, pristine beaches, and sprawling Tijuca National Park provide a perfect backdrop for your adventure. Take a cable car ride to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain for breathtaking views or indulge in Rio’s samba schools that are deeply rooted in Afro-Brazilian culture. Whether you're dancing or exploring along the colorful Selarón Steps, Rio is a city of layers.

Highlights: Christ the Redeemer • Sugarloaf Mountain • Copacabana Beach • Tijuca National Park • Maracanã Stadium

Recommended length of stay: 4-5 days

Learn more: Brazil Tours & Vacations • Brazil Travel Guide

Known as the "City of Lakes,” Udaipur is one of India's most romantic and picturesque cities. Its beautiful artificial waterways include Lake Pichola, which reflects the surrounding scenery at the heart of the city. The City Palace is a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture, overlooking the lake for a glimpse into the city's royal past. Udaipur is also famous for its vibrant culture, with markets brimming with handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry. Participate in a cooking class to learn about traditional Rajasthani cuisine or take a boat ride at sunset on Lake Pichola to embrace the rich history and cultural vibrancy that echoes the city’s lasting regal memories.

Highlights:  City Palace • Lake Pichola • Jag Mandir • Saheliyon-ki-Bari • Jagdish Temple

Recommended length of stay: 2-3 days

Learn more: India Tours & Vacations • India Travel Guide

Florence is famous as the birthplace of the Renaissance, creating a city where art and history come alive. Home to masterpieces by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and other masters of art, Florence's museums remain world-renowned. The city's historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring a treasure trove of architectural marvels. Famous for its leather goods, visiting a local artisan workshop to see traditional leather-making techniques depicts a bygone era. Whether you're exploring the Boboli Gardens or attending a cooking class to make traditional Tuscan dishes, Florence solidifies its place as one of the best cities to visit in the world.

Highlights: Florence Cathedral • Uffizi Gallery • Ponte Vecchio • Palazzo Vecchio • Accademia Gallery

Recommended length of stay: 3-4 days

Learn more: Italy Tours • Italy Travel Guide

Often referred to as the "Venice of the Alps,” Annecy is a charming city nestled at the foot of the famous mountain chain. The city's picturesque canals, colorful old town, and stunning alpine views make it a favorite destination for travelers of all types. Lake Annecy is one of the cleanest lakes in Europe, perfect for swimming, boating, or cycling around its scenic shores. With its beautiful setting and vibrant culture, Annecy offers relaxation and adventure.

Highlights: Lake Annecy • Palais de l'Isle • Château d'Annecy • Old Town • Annecy Market

Recommended length of stay: 2-3 days

Learn more: France Tours & Vacations • France Travel Guide

Ubud is celebrated as the cultural heart of Bali, known for blending natural beauty, spirituality, and artistic expression. The Sacred Monkey Forest is home to hundreds of playful monkeys and ancient temples, while wellness retreats, yoga centers, and traditional Balinese dance performances have gained popularity over the years. The Tegalalang Rice Terraces have become a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing the island's agricultural heritage. Whether you're exploring the local art scene, taking a Balinese cooking class, or simply enjoying the tranquil scenery, Ubud is a peaceful yet enriching getaway.

Highlights: Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary • Tegalalang Rice Terraces • Ubud Palace • Campuhan Ridge Walk • Ubud Art Market

Recommended length of stay: 3-4 days

Learn more: Bali Vacations & Tours • Bali Travel Guide

Istanbul is a city that straddles two continents, offering a unique blend of cultures from East and West. Its rich history as the capital of the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires is reflected in its stunning architecture and cultural landmarks. The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, offering you a shopper's paradise. A traditional Turkish bath provides a relaxing and cultural experience, while the culinary scene represents flavors from various cultures, offering a mouthwatering treat for food lovers. Whether you're cruising the Bosphorus or exploring historic sites, Istanbul is undoubtedly one of the most exciting cities in the world.

Highlights: Hagia Sophia • Topkapi Palace • Blue Mosque • Grand Bazaar • Bosphorus Strait

Recommended length of stay: 4-5 days

Learn more: Turkey Tours & Vacations • Turkey Travel Guide

The "Red City" of Marrakech is a sensory feast famous for its vibrant markets, stunning architecture, and rich history. The souks are a labyrinth of stalls selling spices, textiles, and handicrafts, providing a glimpse into historic Moroccan culture. A traditional Moroccan tea ceremony in a local riad or exploring the city's historic gardens and palaces blend modern life with celebrated heritage. Marrakech's unique mix of old and new, along with its gateway to the Atlas Mountains, makes the city endlessly alluring.

Highlights: Jemaa el-Fnaa Square • Koutoubia Mosque • Saadian Tombs • Majorelle Garden • Bahia Palace

Recommended length of stay: 3-4 days

Learn more: Morocco Tours & Vacations • Morocco Travel Guide

Edinburgh is Scotland's capital and a city where history and culture thrive. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its medieval Old Town and neoclassical New Town, with literary heritage connected to famous authors like Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe remains the world's largest arts festival, acting as a highlight of the city's cultural calendar. A ghost tour through the city's haunted streets or a visit to a local whisky distillery provides unique ways to experience local folklore, culture, and history.

Highlights: Edinburgh Castle • Holyrood Palace • Arthur's Seat • The Royal Mile • National Museum of Scotland

Recommended length of stay: 3-4 days

Learn more: Scotland Tours & Vacations • Scotland Travel Guide

The capital of Finland is a city that beautifully blends nature with design. Surrounded by water, with numerous islands and waterfronts, Helsinki offers a serene environment for exploration. The city's design and architecture are recognized by its UNESCO City of Design designation. The local food scene focuses on sustainability and local ingredients, offering a treat for food lovers from around the world. Visiting a traditional Finnish sauna or exploring the Design District accentuates the unique blend of natural beauty and modern culture, allowing Helsinki to stand out as one of the best cities to visit.

Highlights: Helsinki Cathedral • Suomenlinna Fortress • Market Square • Temppeliaukio Church • Uspenski Cathedral

Recommended length of stay: 2-3 days

Learn more: Finland Vacations & Tours

Hobart is often overlooked when visiting Australia, but as the capital of Tasmania, it is a city that offers stunning natural beauty and rich cultural scenery. The waterfront stands as a hub of activity, known for its markets, cafés, and restaurants showcasing the best of Tasmanian produce. The Museum of Old and New Art is often referred to as MONA, offering a provocative and unique art collection, with exciting exhibits throughout the year. The growing food and wine scene, along with the vibrant arts culture, easily connects with nearby Mount Wellington, celebrated for its panoramic views of the city and beyond. The surrounding wilderness is perfect for hiking and exploring, often acting as the inspiration for much of the art and culinary culture within the city. Hobart's blend of art, food, and nature makes it a top destination for travelers seeking a unique experience.

Highlights: Museum of Old and New Art • Mount Wellington • Food and Wine • Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery • Salamanca Market

Recommended length of stay: 2-3 days

Learn more: Australia Tours • Australia Travel Guide

Slovenia’s capital city is a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. The centerpiece is the Ljubljana Castle, perched on a hill and offering panoramic views of the cityscape and beyond. Tivoli Park is the largest and most beautiful park in the city, perfect for a leisurely stroll and to experience the rhythm of daily urban life in the country. The iconic Triple Bridge connects the historical and modern parts of the city, the Dragon Bridge acts as a symbol of Ljubljana, and the Central Market is a great spot to experience local produce and seasonal delicacies.

Highlights: Ljubljana Castle • Tivoli Park • Triple Bridge • Central Market • Dragon Bridge

Recommended length of stay: 2-3 days

Learn more: Slovenia Tours

Cape Town is a city that offers an incredible mix of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and adventure. Table Mountain dominates the skyline, offering stunning views and a chance to stretch your legs on a scenic hike near the city center. The V&A Waterfront is a lively area with shops, restaurants, and museums, while nearby Robben Island is a poignant reminder of South Africa's challenging history. Cape Town's beaches include the famous Clifton and Camps Bay, which are perfect for sunbathing and water sports. A visit to the nearby Cape Winelands for a wine tasting or a drive along the scenic Chapman's Peak Drive adds to the city's individuality.

Highlights: Table Mountain • Robben Island • Cape of Good Hope • Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden • V&A Waterfront

Recommended length of stay: 4-5 days

Learn more: South Africa Safari Tours & Vacations • South Africa Travel Guide

Budapest has been referred to as the "Paris of the East”, famous for its stunning architecture and neighborhoods uniquely divided by the Danube River into Buda and Pest. Known for its thermal baths, with numerous historic spas offering relaxation in beautiful settings, Budapest is culturally lively, with events like the Budapest Spring Festival and the Sziget Festival attracting visitors from around the world. The city’s famous ruin bars demonstrate the creative way entrepreneurs turned abandoned buildings and courtyards into thriving centers for nightlife.

Highlights: Buda Castle • Fisherman's Bastion • Széchenyi Thermal Bath • Chain Bridge • Hungarian Parliament Building

Recommended length of stay: 3-4 days

Learn more: Hungary Tours

Hanoi is a rare city that beautifully blends history and modernity. Known for its rich history and bustling street life, Hanoi features a mix of French colonial architecture and traditional Vietnamese culture. The city's street food scene is legendary, offering a variety of delicious local dishes, from bánh mì to phở. The traditional water puppet shows demonstrate a unique Vietnamese art form dating back hundreds of years and the bustling streets also act as a gateway to the stunning karsts of Hạ Long Bay.

Highlights: Hoàn Kiếm Lake • Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum • Old Quarter • Temple of Literature • One Pillar Pagoda

Recommended length of stay: 3-4 days

Learn more: Vietnam Tours & Vacations • Vietnam Travel Guide

Valletta can feel surprising when exploring the streets steeped in history and culture. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Valletta is known for its well-preserved historical architecture and rich heritage. Despite being one of the smallest capitals in Europe, the city is packed with things to see and do, all within walking distance. Whether hosting various cultural events and festivals, including the Valletta Film Festival, or touring Saint John’s Co-Catherdal, you can feel a remarkable influence in such a small capital city.

Highlights: St. John's Co-Cathedral • Upper Barrakka Gardens • Valletta Waterfront • Fort Saint Elmo • National Museum of Archaeology

Recommended length of stay: 2-3 days

Panama City is a fascinating blend of old and new, with a skyline that features modern skyscrapers and historic buildings. While best known for its access to the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, Panama City has emerged as a harbinger of character, heritage, and exciting experiences. The historic district of Casco Viejo is a UNESCO World Heritage site with colonial architecture and buzzing nightlife. Panama City's tropical climate makes it a year-round destination and its diverse culinary scene reflects the multicultural population that has grown over time. Whether exploring the historic district, watching ships pass through the canal, cycling along the waterfront, or visiting Monkey Island, Panama City offers a unique travel experience.

Highlights: Panama Canal • Casco Viejo • Miraflores Visitor Center • Amador Causeway • Biomuseo

Recommended length of stay: 3-4 days

Learn more: Panama Vacations • Panama Travel Guide

Zaragoza in Spain showcases influences from Roman, Moorish, and Christian civilizations. The Basilica del Pilar is one of Spain's most important Baroque temples and remains a major pilgrimage site. The city is also known for the Fiestas del Pilar, one of Spain's largest festivals and celebrated for the passing of flowers, when participants dress in period costumes and create elaborate floral displays. Zaragoza's position along the Ebro River provides scenic views and the vibrant culinary scene shaped around tapas features local specialties demonstrating an individual charm unlike anywhere else in the country.

Highlights: Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar • Aljafería Palace • Plaza del Pilar • Goya Museum • Ebro River Walk

Recommended length of stay: 2-3 days

Learn more: Spain Tours & Vacations • Spain Travel Guide

From the historic streets of Lisbon to the bustling markets of Marrakech, let us light the way to cities that offer diverse experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you're drawn to breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, or vibrant local scenes, each city on this list promises an unforgettable adventure. Their unique charms and standout attractions make them some of the best cities in the world to visit.

For more travel inspiration and tips on planning your next vacation, discover your preferred experiences with our trip ideas for the city enthusiast or find your next destination with our ideas on the top places to travel by each month of the year.