They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but some cities around the world are undeniably stunning—whether it’s the classic charm of Paris or the vibrant chaos of NYC. Some boast perfectly preserved historic architecture, while others dazzle with crystal-clear waters. Many are packed with world-class museums and restaurants. What all 25 of the world’s prettiest cities share is their ability to leave visitors breathless. Whether you’re searching for beauty close to home or somewhere far-flung, these are the places to go.
Best tourist destination: Sydney, Australia
Underrated hidden gem: Tbilisi, Georgia
Best for families: Singapore
Best for couples: Paris, France
Best for solo travelers: Hội An, Vietnam
This list isn’t exhaustive, but it’s a great starting point for your next adventure.
Sydney, Australia
Sunny Sydney glistens with its yacht-dotted harbor, golden beaches, lush parks, and pristine streets. Hop on a boat tour to admire the Harbour Bridge and the iconic Sydney Opera House—a symbol of Australia’s oldest, largest city and the continent itself. Stroll along scenic coastal walks and visit incredible beaches like Queenscliff Beach, at the northern tip of famous Manly Beach. With its wide sandy stretch, pro-surfer waves, a 164-foot rock pool, and a lagoon, it’s a dream spot. You can even take a charming ferry ride from Darling Harbour or Circular Quay to get there.
Tbilisi, Georgia
Georgia’s capital is straight out of a fairytale, even if it doesn’t always get the attention it deserves. The Old Town is a delight, with carved wooden balconies overlooking quiet courtyards and cobblestone streets lined with wine bars and traditional restaurants. Don’t miss khinkali (juicy dumplings), khachapuri (the famous “cheese boat”), and local wine. Hike or take the funicular up to Narikala Fortress—originally built in the 13th century, destroyed in the 1800s, and rebuilt in 1997—for sweeping views of Tbilisi and the Caucasus Mountains.
Singapore
Singapore is a sensory feast. Its skyline isn’t just about futuristic skyscrapers—it’s also home to surreal “supertrees,” glass domes, and a 540-foot Ferris wheel. Neighborhoods like Chinatown, Kampong Glam, and Little India, along with an incredible street food scene, celebrate the city’s multicultural roots. Hawker centers buzz with stalls serving roasted pork rice, Malaysian fried noodles, honey lime juice, and icy cendol (a sweet coconut milk dessert). Walk off your meal along Marina Bay’s glowing waterfront or explore the lush Botanic Gardens and Gardens by the Bay (which has fantastic playgrounds for kids).
Paris, France
No list of beautiful cities is complete without Paris. Around every corner, something will make your heart skip—whether it’s an iconic monument, a cozy café packed with stylish locals, or a grand boulevard lined with elegant Haussmann buildings. The city is full of beautifully arranged displays, from patisserie windows stacked with colorful macarons to the masterpieces in its world-class museums.
Hội An, Vietnam
This charming coastal canal town is one of Vietnam’s most beautiful destinations. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town feels frozen in time, with over 1,000 historic timber houses, sacred temples, pagodas, and a 17th-century Japanese bridge. Many buildings are painted a warm golden yellow—a color tied to prosperity and royalty—though no one knows exactly why it’s so common. Lantern-lit streets and cyclists add to the magic. Join the locals on a bike ride, take a cooking class, enjoy a riverboat cruise, relax at a café, hit the beach, or get custom-made clothing from a skilled tailor.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona’s bustling food markets, snug tapas bars, and golden Mediterranean beaches attract millions each year. The city is also a showcase of modernist architecture, thanks to Antoni Gaudí—his Sagrada Família and Park Güell are must-sees. Add in abundant sunshine (339 hours a month on average), late dinners (if you’re an early bird, 9 p.m. is standard), and leisurely strolls through lively plazas, and you’ve got one of the world’s most beautiful cities.
Queenstown, New Zealand
New Zealand’s natural beauty is breathtaking, and Queenstown—the “adventure capital of the world”—is the ultimate playground. Whether you’re into hiking (even heli-hiking for the bold), skiing, skydiving, rafting, wine-tasting, or cruising Milford Sound, this city has it all. Nestled beside glacial Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown reflects the stunning Remarkables mountain range, making the scenery even more spectacular.
Istanbul, Turkey
If you’ve done Rome, Paris, and Barcelona, head east to Istanbul—named one of the best places to travel in 2024. This intoxicating city blends domed mosques with intricate mosaics, Ottoman palaces, labyrinthine markets, and cobblestone streets buzzing with bar-hopping crowds. The food scene goes far beyond kebabs—mezze and grilled seafood are incredible, and the coffeehouse culture lasts well into the night.
San Francisco, California
San Francisco’s geography alone makes it stunning. Perched between the Pacific and the bay, its steep streets offer sweeping views of skyscrapers, bridges, mountains, and water. The Golden Gate Bridge, Painted Ladies, and historic cable cars are iconic, but the real magic is in the details—old-school Italian delis in North Beach, dim sum in Chinatown, and green spaces like Presidio Tunnel Tops, a 14-acre park built over highway tunnels in 2022.
Palermo, Italy
Sicily’s vibrant, sun-drenched capital is a dream for architecture lovers, foodies, and anyone who enjoys la dolce vita. Surprisingly, Italy’s largest opera house isn’t in Rome or Milan—it’s here (Teatro Massimo, recognizable to The White Lotus fans). Palermo’s golden cathedral is one of many Arab-Norman treasures dating back to the 12th century. Climb to its rooftop for a view of the terracotta skyline rolling toward the sea.
The city’s real beauty lies in its energy—scooters zipping by, palm trees swaying, couples strolling ancient streets. Don’t miss the Ballarò market, where locals buy almonds, olives, spices, and ruby-red tomatoes. As evening falls, sip an Aperol spritz or nero d’Avola in Piazza Caracciolo and watch the night come alive.
Cape Town, South Africa
Between Table Mountain and the Atlantic, Cape Town is a natural masterpiece. Thrill-seekers can dive with sharks or hike the mountain (or take the cable car for an easier ascent). For relaxation, swim at celeb-favorite Camps Bay Beach or bike along Sea Point Promenade. Food and wine lovers are spoiled—from waterfront seafood spots to hidden dim sum bars, and Stellenbosch’s vineyards just 45 minutes away.
Seoul, South Korea
Seoul’s vibrant food scene, nightlife, urban parks, and cutting-edge everything make it a favorite. Past and present collide here—ancient palaces sit beside neon-lit party districts, Buddhist temples share space with skyscrapers, and street markets buzz alongside a futuristic subway. Nature is never far, whether it’s landscaped parks along Cheonggyecheon Stream, mountain trails, or free outdoor gyms where locals unwind.
Cartagena, Colombia
Cartagena lures visitors with Caribbean beaches and a postcard-perfect Old Town. The UNESCO-listed walled city is one of South America’s best-preserved, with bougainvillea-draped balconies in coral, cobalt, and fuchsia. Spend your day at the beach or people-watching in plazas while sampling grilled arepas, coconut cookies, and fresh fruit. At night, follow the salsa music to lively bars with live bands.
Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto is the serene antidote to Tokyo’s sprawl. With 17 UNESCO sites—temples, shrines, and the dazzling Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji)—it’s a history lover’s dream. Cherry and willow trees line riverbanks, and lantern-lit alleys lead to wooden teahouses. Visit the peaceful Silver Pavilion (Ginkaku-ji) at sunrise, then hike up for a city view. For tranquility, book ahead for Moss Temple (Kokedera), a real-life Studio Ghibli scene.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Dramatic, lively, and endlessly beautiful, Rio seduces with its mountains, legendary beaches, samba parties, and stunning people. Iconic spots like Ipanema and Copacabana beaches and the towering Christ the Redeemer statue draw crowds, but the city’s charm also lies in its rainforest parks, waterfalls, and botanical gardens. Explore artsy Santa Teresa or dance to samba beats in Gamboa.
Rome, Italy
Rome is an open-air museum of nearly 3,000 years of art and architecture. Wander its winding alleys, hidden piazzas, and grand boulevards, balancing awe-inspiring sights (the Roman Forum, St. Peter’s Basilica) with creamy gelato, carbonara, and Aperol spritzes. In summer, join the evening passeggiata—the stylish parade of locals out for a stroll.
