The best cities in the world: 2024 Readers' Choice Awards
As Samuel Pepys, who traversed London by foot for miles every day, knew, a city easily navigated à pied is so much more appealing than one that stops you in your tracks. Walkability was one criterion on which you judged your urban hits, and Glasgow and Valencia came out top – though the well-connected Mediterranean city also scored highly with those who prefer to hop on a tram. Elsewhere, the fashion labels of Milan’s Via Manzoni put it in the front row for shopping, Las Vegas hit the jackpot for its all-singing, all-dancing hotels, and Paris and Vienna are your go-to cultural icons.
These are the best cities in the world, according to the 2024 Readers' Choice Awards.
Getty Images20. New York, USA. Score 88.02
Will our adoration for the Big Apple ever die? With so many things to do in New York City, we find ourselves returning to it time and time again. It seems that every month, fabulous new hotels, tasty restaurants and quirky attractions open their doors.
Getty Images19. Marrakech, Morocco. Score 88.63
This former imperial city is our go-to for short-haul shoulder season and winter sun. As summer transitions into autumn, we spend afternoons at our desks dreaming of poolside lounging in some of the city's most opulent hotels.
Getty Images18. Seville, Spain. Score 88.76
Due to scorching temperatures in the south of Spain, Seville seemingly empties during the peak summer months. However, if the heat isn't an issue, there's always respite to be sought in the city's exceptional museums, palaces, and cathedrals. Alternatively, extend the summer with an autumn trip and don the shorts and colourful dresses as Britain shivers.
Getty Images17. Las Vegas, USA. Score 89.19
A long weekend in Sin City is never a bad idea. Where else can you see superstars perform in an intimate setting, explore the waterways of a reimagined Venice on a gondola, splash the cash in a casino and feast in a Michelin-starred restaurant?
Getty Images16. Palma, Spain. Score 89.21
One of our favourite things to do in Mallorca is to amble through Palma's pretty streets. Put aside a day (or more) to explore characterful squares and alleyways, people watching over local dishes and full-bodied Spanish reds along the way.
Getty Images15. Istanbul, Turkey. Score 89.26
This bicontinental metropolis, home to over 15 million people, has thousands of years of history to uncover. It may not be Turkey's capital, but you'd be forgiven for assuming it was. The post-pandemic upsurge in interest is well deserved, thanks to numerous exceptional new restaurants opening alongside the classically opulent hotels.
Getty Images14. Chicago, USA. Score 89.35
Chicago is a culture vulture's dream. The city, one of the largest in the US, offers more than 80 museums, so planning and prioritising are key to any visit to the Windy City.
Getty Images13. Cape Town, South Africa. Score 89.37
South Africa’s capital truly offers the best of both worlds. There are few cities in the world as culturally rich as Cape Town, where you can lounge on spectacular beaches frequented by penguins before heading to gorgeous vineyards and chic rooftop bars.
Getty Images12. Paris, France. Score 89.38
You could visit Paris dozens of times and still fail to discover all the city has to offer. Ultimately, that's part of the appeal, and the reason we hop on the Eurostar to the French capital given any opportunity. See our guide to the best things to do in Paris for itinerary inspiration, and our ultimate Paris hotel guide before deciding where to lay your head.
Getty Images11. Madrid, Spain. Score 89.61
Following cries of over-tourism in cities such as Barcelona, many Brits could turn their attention to the Spanish capital for their city break-fix. It's a destination long adored by admirers of spectacular architecture and history and a favourite among foodies, who seek out neighbourhood spots in the city's outskirts.
Getty Images10. Budapest, Hungary. Score 89.86
Remarkable architecture, grand hotels and relaxing thermal baths – Budapest is certainly one of Europe's most intriguing cities. It's a favourite among wellness-seekers who bathe in the city's restorative waters; there's enough to choose from to easily fill a long weekend or two.
Getty Images9. Milan, Italy. Score 90.13
Milan is associated with glitz, glamour, and fashion week, strutting just as much as it is a base from which to explore the leafier corners of Italy. However, delay the train to the Italian lakes by a day or two and uncover the Milan the locals love. While we've been singing this city's praises for many years, it seems an increasing number of travellers are, too.
Getty Images8. Berlin, Germany. Score 90.29
There really is a side to Berlin that every type of traveller can embrace. We've seen some exceptional restaurants open in the German capital in recent years, and it's no secret Berliners know how to party like few other Europeans. Hotels continue outdoing themselves, too – luxurious bases from which to travel back to more troubled times, hopping between fascinating attractions.
Getty Images7. Vienna, Austria. Score 90.93
Vienna's musical legacy is one of the biggest draws for travellers – but it's well worth putting time aside for a wiener schnitzel and an indulgent slice of sachertorte. Our favourite things to do in the city include picturesque tram rides, world-class concerts, and tours of regal palaces.
Getty Images6. Tokyo, Japan. Score 91.06
Is it possible to decipher this neon city in all its glory? We're unsure, but we love giving it a good go given any opportunity to visit Japan's most iconic city. Cultures and ages collide among these streets, where sleek hotels embrace ancient traditions. It's a unique experience, but one you'll never forget.
Getty Images5. Stockholm, Sweden. Score 91.11
Stockholm is the European go-to for super-chic travellers. People watch over steaming coffees by the waterside and expect a sleek fashion show as the Swedes go about their day. There's a lot to be said for the food scene here, especially where fine dining is concerned, while the city's bright young things swarm the colourful streets on long summer nights for spritz-sipping and comforting light bites.
Getty Images4. Hong Kong. Score 91.72
Ask any committed traveller if they've been to Hong Kong, and if they have, there's a fine chance they saw little more than the airport walls – which is pretty spectacular as airports go. However, the curious city breakers among our readers helped propel this Asian city into the top five of the best cities in the world. For inspiration ahead of future visits, see where we recommend laying your head in our guide to the best hotels in Hong Kong.
Getty Images3. Singapore. Score 92.47
Where else can you tuck into Michelin-recommended dishes using spare change before witnessing one of Earth's most spectacular open-air light shows? Our love for Singapore is enduring, and we're constantly looking for long-haul excuses to see what's new in the city en route to destinations further afield. For more inspiration, see our 10 recommendations of things to do in Singapore.
Getty Images2. Valencia, Spain. Score 92.78
Valencia misses out on the title of the best city in the world by an exceptionally narrow margin, suggesting that today's travellers favour the slightly less tourist-filled streets found in the country's largest cities. Hotels range from grand Art Deco properties in the centre to beachside resorts ideal for dipping in and out of culture and sunbathing, making it a great alternative to Barcelona's beachside hustle and bustle in peak season.
Getty Images1. Sydney, Australia. Score 92.96
And the 2024 crown goes to… Sydney. If you've experienced a snippet of life Down Under, you've probably fallen hard for the unique, indoor-outdoor way of life the Aussies embrace so well. Planning that bucket list trip? Be sure to read Contemporary artist Gabrielle Penfold's guide to Sydney, where she shares tasty in-the-know spots and more.