Where to next: Time Out unveils their top 50 cities of 2025
Our world is wide and vast, with endless possibilities for travel. Sometimes it is hard to decide where you would like to visit next. Thankfully, Time Out has unveiled their annual list of the top 50 cities in the world. Spanning continents and oceans, this list presents a diverse range of cities to explore, each as exciting as the last.
This list is more than a recap of trendy hotspots, but a curated selection of places where tourists and travellers can have an unforgettable experience. Time Out surveyed around 18,500 city residents and consulted an internal panel of 100 travel experts. Using a range of criteria, from insights on food and culture to livability and affordability metrics, the participants were asked to name top cities. Time Out carefully synthesized this data to create their list.
Cape Town, South Africa
Coming out on top is the stunning Cape Town. This vibrant city on the coast of South Africa is famed for its exciting urban cityscape and proximity to nature. Stroll along pristine beaches, climb the impressive Table Mountain, or savor a fragrant beverage at a luxurious vineyard.Â
Being in Cape Town is a treat for the senses, owing to the impressive diversity of the landscape. From the dizzying heights of the city’s mountains to the blue brilliance of ocean escarpments, the city is dazzling in every way. South Africa’s oldest city, Cape Town has a fascinating history.
Adventurous, beautiful, and inspiring, it’s no wonder Cape Town has been declared Time Out’s number one city of 2025.
Bangkok, Thailand
Thailand’s capital city earned the second place spot. Bangkok is a bustling and captivating city. A foodie’s dream, Bangkok is notable for its wide range of cuisine and offers visitors the very best of Thai delicacies. Dig into the classic pad Thai or feed your sweet tooth with mango sticky rice.
Bangkok is also an excellent spot for shopping. From high-end boutiques for bespoke pieces, to the enchanting pull of downtown markets, visitors are spoiled for choice. Â
The city has several iconic landmarks that are a must-see. The Grand Palace, in the heart of the city, is the official residence of the Thai royal family and an architectural marvel. Bangkok is full of friendly locals, stunning landmarks, and cultural sites, making it a wonderful place to visit.
New York, USA
A location that requires no introduction, the infamous ‘city that never sleeps’ has long captured the hearts and minds of visitors and locals alike. New York City is ever-exciting and diverse. Home to a thriving and always expanding arts and culture scene, New York City remains a top destination.
Think about the sheer amount of songs and movies written in homage to the city, New York has amazing nightlife, countless entertainment options, and architectural sights to behold. Have a relaxing afternoon picnic in sunny Central Park or get lost in one of many iconic museums.
Melbourne, Australia
Number 4 is beautiful Melbourne. Located in Australia’s southeastern state of Victoria, this coastal city has a thriving art scene combined with a laidback beach vibe. Visiting Melbourne is a breath of fresh air.
Melbourne is known for its coffee culture, eating at the artisanal cafés and coffee shops that are located all around the city is a must-do. There is also a plethora of arts activities to immerse yourself in. It has an abundance of theaters, galleries, music halls, as well as year-round festivals celebrating artistic expression.
London, UK
London’s range of activities and long history has made it a popular and sought after tourist destination for years. Featuring iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, and Big Ben, London is an eclectic blend of culture, historical intrigue, and modern innovation.
London is always compelling and filled with things to do and discover.Â
Finishing up the top ten are five more equally intrguing cities: New Orleans, USA, Mexico City, Mexico, Porto, Portugal, Shanghai, China, and Copenhagen, Denmark.
Follow this link to get to the full article.
