Cape Town has been named the Best City in the World for 2025 by Time Out, moving up from second place last year to take the top honour.
The annual ranking, released on Monday, reflects extensive input from over 18,500 residents worldwide. The survey assessed 44 criteria, including food, nightlife, culture, affordability, happiness, and the overall vibe of a city. Cape Town excelled across all categories, solidifying its reputation as a premier global destination.
Cape Town’s Unique Appeal
Time Out praised Cape Town for its distinctive combination of natural beauty and urban attractions. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of experiences, from hiking the iconic Table Mountain and savouring wines from the Cape Winelands to indulging in a lively nightlife scene and exploring diverse cuisine.
“The Mother City – as it is affectionately known – is rich in history and cultural significance, and offers visitors countless opportunities to discover incredible food, culture and nightlife, not to mention impeccable green spaces and access to nature,” the publication explained.
“To be recognised as Time Out’s Best City in the World is a huge high five to the Capetonians who work so hard to create a city which can be enjoyed by locals and visitors alike,” said Andrew Hallett, Time Out South Africa’s content director. He urged visitors to explore the city, promising an unforgettable experience.
How Time Out Conducts Its Rankings
Now in its seventh year, Time Out’s global survey asked over 18,500 locals and 100 experts to share their insights on cities worldwide, including the stunning South African destination that claimed the top spot. Questions ranged from food and culture to affordability and overall happiness. A panel of more than 100 city experts from Time Out’s global network also contributed by naming the world’s most exciting cities at the moment.
“Our annual list of Time Out’s Best Cities in the World right now proves that if you want to know what makes a city truly great, ask a local,” said Grace Beard, travel editor at Time Out. “Cape Town excelled in liveability, natural beauty, and cultural offerings, making it a standout choice for 2025.”
Enver Duminy, CEO of Cape Town Tourism, highlighted the role of the city’s people in achieving this accolade. “Cape Town is a city built on its people’s passion, resilience, and creativity. From bustling markets to serene beaches, every corner of our city tells a story of community and connection,” he said.
The world’s top 10 cities for 2025
Here are the top 10 cities from Time Out’s Best Cities in the World right now. You can find the full list of 50 cities at timeout.com/bestcities.
Top 10 Cities in the World for 2025:
- Cape Town, South Africa
Earning top marks across the board, a remarkable 82% of locals described Cape Town as beautiful, while 97% said it makes them happy. From visiting a colony of African penguins and strolling along Blue Flag beaches to enjoying vibrant nightlife and breathtaking views from one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, Cape Town offers an unparalleled mix of experiences. Historic sites, cultural hubs like Kalk Bay and East City, the Time Out Market Cape Town, and the natural beauty of Cape Point add to the city’s allure. - Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok delivers on every level with its friendly atmosphere, cultural richness, and iconic sites like Wat Arun and the Grand Palace. Its renowned food scene impressed, with 86% of locals declaring it “good” or “amazing,” and 84% noting that dining out is affordable. With improvements in public transit, exploring Bangkok has never been easier. - New York, USA
Known for its fast pace and boundless energy, New York remains a hub of excitement and all things fashion . The city ranked highest for its arts and culture scene, with 92% of locals approving. From iconic attractions like Edge, the hemisphere’s highest observation deck, to vibrant neighborhoods such as Riverdale, there’s always something happening in the Big Apple. - Melbourne, Australia
A cultural and culinary capital with innovative dining, lively arts, and new developments like the Metro Tunnel enhancing its charm. - London, UK
A vibrant mix of history and modernity, with diverse communities, booming nightlife, and world-class food and shopping. - New Orleans, USA
Famous for its resilience, unique music, Creole cuisine, and lively festivals, all in an affordable and welcoming package. - Mexico City, Mexico
A city of vibrant neighborhoods, year-round festivals, and cultural landmarks, with locals embracing everyday joy and connection. - Porto, Portugal
A charming mix of urban beaches, Michelin-starred dining, and historic beauty, making it one of Europe’s favorite destinations. - Shanghai, China
Dynamic and modern with a buzzing nightlife, welcoming vibe, and seamless blend of tradition and innovation. - Copenhagen, Denmark
Celebrated for its sustainable living, relaxed pace, and community-focused culture, inspiring cities around the world.
For the full rankings and more details, visit timeout.com/bestcities
