Need inspiration for your next vacation? Well, you have plenty of cities to choose from as the world’s best have just been announced.
For the tenth consecutive year, Time Out has released its rankings of the 50 best cities in the world for 2026 — and Melbourne, Australia, snagged the top spot.
The coastal capital of the Australian state of Victoria is famous for its vibrant, fast-paced feel.
Tourists can enjoy everything from a plethora of sporting events (like the Australian Open, F1 Australian Grand Prix, the AFL Grand Final and the Boxing Day Test) to a thriving culinary scene (which includes the famous Melbourne Food and Wine Festival). The city’s new Metro Tunnel also makes it easier than ever to get around town.
Shanghai, China snagged the annual list’s second spot. Known for its history yet modern architecture, visitors can take in Chinese and colonial-era architecture alongside more modern projects, such as Wong Kar Wai and Prada’s cinematic restaurant Mi Zhang.
Coffee lovers should also rejoice — this city claims to have the most coffee shops in the world, so visitors will never be left wanting for their next caffeine fix.
Edinburgh, Scotland comes in third this year, touting gorgeous, green spaces and a thriving arts and culture scene. Tourists can take in cherry blossom-covered parks, grandiose Georgian architecture and historic cobbled alleyways. It’s almost too easy to get around by foot — head to the iconic Fringe festival if traveling there in August.
Number four on the list is London — especially those craving a budget-friendly visit. The city has a wealth of free museums and galleries, like the historic British museum. Pick up a pint in one of the city’s many pubs afterwards, as a treat.
New York City is the first U.S. city on Time Out’s yearly list this year, ringing in at number five.
The Big Apple is famous for its cooler-than-cool vibes, where something new and exciting to do lurks around every corner. Take in a Broadway show or visit one of the city’s famous parks — Central Park, anyone? — as the weather gets nicer. Make sure to grab a slice of iconic New York pizza from one of the city’s countless pizzerias on the way home.
Cape Town in South Africa comes in at number six on the ranking. The city is described as a retreat for relaxation, boasting gorgeous beaches, countless laid-back restaurants and friendly locals.
Mexico City is number seven on the list for its delicious food scene and free art exhibitions — not to mention its bustling nightlife — but it does currently come with a caveat. The U.S. embassy in Mexico has issued an advisory for Americans traveling to Mexico, noting that even though violence in the country has subsided, “risks of crime and kidnapping remain.”
“Crime, including violent crime, can occur anywhere in Mexico, including in popular tourist destinations. This includes homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery,” the advisory said, also mentioning sexual assault, extortion and scams.
Following the cartel violence that came to Puerto Vallarta after the killing of “El Mencho” — one of the country’s most well-known drug lords — travel experts have advised Americans to consider switching their spring break and tourism plans.
Rounding out the top 10 is Bangkok, Thailand, at No. 8. The city is easy to navigate due to its pristine Skytrain network and boasts street food that is supposedly to die for. Visitors can easily lose themselves in the creative hubs of Talat Noi and Song Wat, which have an eclectic vibe.
Number nine is Seoul, South Korea. Known for its highly innovative plastic surgery centers and beauty treatments, it’s one of the top cities in the world for aesthetic tourism. After getting treatments to look good, try a bite from one of the city’s many bakeries, which are experiencing a boom as of late.
Coming in at No. 10 is Tokyo, Japan. Notoriously safe and walkable, tourists can grab a bite in one of the Michelin-starred restaurants in the city (of which they have the most of any) and enjoy the cutting-edge fashion scene.
The outlet said they “quizzed more than 24,000 locals” to determine which cities have the best food scene, nightlife, shops, museums, parks and people, and where people feel the happiest and have the best quality of life.
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