Whether you’re a first-time explorer or a well-seasoned traveler, there are so many places in the world to discover and fall in love with. We took a look at Euromonitor International’s Top 100 City Destinations Index to find the best cities in the world to visit in 2025.
From the recognizable skylines of New York City to the sparkling Eiffel Tower in Paris, these cities are popular and well-loved for many reasons. Discover the 10 best cities in the world to visit that’ll make you want to pack your bags and jet set!
1. Paris, France
Top-ranked accommodation: Hotel Louvre Rivoli
Ranked number one is the beautiful city of Paris, also known as the City of Light. Rich in art and culture, Paris is well known for its beautiful architecture and iconic landmarks such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum and the Eiffel Tower.
Also known as the City of Love, it’s an incredibly romantic city to visit for couples. Whether it’s taking a dinner river cruise along the Seine or stopping by charming cafes for a café noisette and croissant, there are endless things to explore during your stay. The city is also a fashion capital, so come home in style after a shopping day on Champs-Elysées Avenue.
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2. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Top-ranked accommodation: Mandarin Oriental Jumeira Dub
A modern city like no other, Dubai is a mesmerizing city that stands out for its luxurious lifestyles, beautiful architecture and endless opportunities for adventure. Located in the Arabian Desert, Dubai offers activities for any type of visitor, from taking a hot-air balloon ride for breathtaking views to ATV riding on the Red Dunes.
Known as the Jewel of the Desert, you'll understand why when you ascend the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, or explore the human-made Palm Jumeirah islands. Dubai, with its blend of vibrant cultures and year-round sunshine, stands out as one of the top destinations to visit.
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3. Madrid, Spain
Top-ranked accommodation: Me Madrid Reina Victoria
Third on the list is Madrid, the capital city of Spain. Full of old-world charm and contagious energy, it makes sense why Madrid is a top city in the world to visit. There are plenty of sightseeing opportunities to check out, like the Royal Palace, the Templo de Debod and the Crystal Palace in Retiro Park. Plus, Madrid’s seamless metro system makes it easy to bounce from one neighborhood to another.
Madrid's central location makes it perfect for day trips to nearby destinations like Valencia or smaller towns like Segovia and Cuenca. Additionally, Madrid boasts a lively nightlife scene, from dance clubs to late-night tapas and cocktail bars for those looking to celebrate into the early morning hours.
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4. Tokyo, Japan
Top-ranked accommodation: Hyatt Regency Tokyo
The vibrant city of Tokyo blends innovation and tradition seamlessly with its modern skyscrapers and historic sites throughout the city. Must-sees in Tokyo include Shibuya Crossing, Senso-ji Temple and the historic streets of Asakusa.
Tokyo is well-loved by foodies, with plenty of amazing restaurants to try popular dishes like sushi, ramen and tempura. Gaming enthusiasts can enjoy a day spent in Akihabara, a shopping hub filled with shops selling electronics, anime and gaming collectibles and video games. The city's public transportation also makes it easy for travelers to navigate the 847 square-mile area.
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5. Amsterdam, the Netherlands
Top-ranked accommodation: The Ed Amsterdam
With its picturesque canals and historic streets, Amsterdam has become a popular spot for travelers far and wide to visit. There are plenty of sites to see in the city, including the famous Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum.
It’s an incredibly walkable city, but can also be explored by bike (a favored choice) or boat. Amsterdam boasts numerous neighborhoods waiting to be discovered, with the Jordaan district being particularly well-liked. Its culinary scene offers a delightful mix of Dutch specialties and widely enjoyed global dishes. Travelers of any experience level can enjoy this welcoming city.
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6. Berlin, Germany
Top-ranked accommodation: Chateau Royal
Next on the list is Berlin, known for its vibrant culture, historic landmarks and eclectic neighborhoods. History buffs can enjoy seeing the famous Brandenburg Gate, the remnants of the Berlin Wall and the Holocaust Memorial. The city is home to several well-known museums, including Museum Island, the Pergamon Museum and the East Side Gallery.
Outside of the historical sites, Berlin has become a hot spot for young artists, so you can expect a thriving music scene and nightlife during a trip. Plus, you can delight in wonderful German cuisine blended with global dishes at highly rated restaurants and trendy cafes.
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7. Rome, Italy
Top-ranked accommodation: Kolbe Hotel Rome
Known as the Eternal City, Rome is a popular tourist destination due to its preserved ancient architecture, delicious cuisine and beautiful sites. There are many things to do in Rome, including seeing Vatican City, the Colosseum and the Pantheon.
You'll find plenty of small boutiques to shop at, music to listen to in the plazas and new things to learn while staying in the city. Spend the day exploring museums and historic sites, then unwind in the evenings by trying out regional wines and strolling along the city's cobblestone streets. Indulge in traditional Roman dishes, such as pasta and pizza, in popular food districts like Trastevere. Don't forget to finish your meal with a scoop of gelato!
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8. New York, United States of America
Top-ranked accommodation: The Dominick
The one and only city in the United States ranked in the top 10 is New York City. Spread over 302 miles and three principal islands, New York is broken up into five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx and Staten Island. Each borough has its own unique culture, activities and attractions.
With a city of such size, it’s not surprising that there are so many sights to see and things to do, including taking a ferry to visit Ellis Island, strolling through Central Park and going to the top of the Empire State Building for an amazing view of the Big Apple. If you’re in the U.S. and want to stay local, we definitely recommend checking out this top destination.
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9. Barcelona, Spain
Top-ranked accommodation: Catalonia Portal Del Angel
Nestled along the Mediterranean sits Barcelona, a European hotspot known for its breathtaking architecture, exquisite cuisine and rich history. Those with an artist's eye can enjoy seeing Antoni Gaudí’s popular pieces of work, including the Sagrada Família and Park Güell.
Beyond its architecture, Barcelona is full of vibrant energy, from its bustling streets, unique neighborhoods and joyous plazas, which make it a great city to explore on a budget. Indulge in the city’s cuisine with tapas—happy hour-style plates ideal for munching on before a larger meal. The city’s location also makes it an ideal hub for day trips during a visit, like a trip to Montserrat to see the stunning Santa Maria de Montserrat.
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10. London, United Kingdom
Top-ranked accommodation: The Royal Horseguards
Last but not least on the list is London, a city filled with extensive history, rich culture and plenty of things to do. This dreamy city has something for everyone, such as sightseeing iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace and Big Ben, learning more about the city’s history in the British Museum and strolling through Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park. One of the oldest cities in the world, London is filled with breathtaking castles and palaces that are full of history and intrigue.
London is known for its diverse culinary scene, like indulgent ‘Sunday roasts’ with pints at traditional English pubs. There are also various neighborhoods to explore, including Notting Hill, South Kensington and St. James's. Whether you’re a history buff or a foodie, you’ll find a bit of happiness in London.
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