The world's most beautiful cities

For its 28th annual readers’ survey, the American travel magazine Condé Nast Traveler asked travelers to choose the most beautiful cities around the globe. More than 128,000 readers participated in the poll and shared their opinions. Eight of the ten highest-ranked cities are located in Europe, showing the continent’s remarkable combination of history, culture, and architecture.

10. London, England

When it comes to international visitors, London stands above nearly every other city in the world. More than 17 million travelers visit the British capital along the River Thames each year. The city attracts visitors with its world-class museums, famous theaters, royal heritage, contemporary buildings, and stylish shopping districts.

9. Kyoto, Japan

Once the capital of Japan, Kyoto remains the country’s cultural and historical center. The city is filled with magnificent palaces, traditional temples, ancient shrines, monasteries, and peaceful Zen gardens. Beyond its historic attractions, Kyoto also impresses visitors with its vibrant arts culture, outstanding cuisine, and beautiful natural scenery.

8. Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is a charming medieval city often described as a European fairy-tale destination. Its stone-paved streets, closely packed brick houses, Gothic churches, and countless canals create a romantic atmosphere that attracts visitors from around the world.

7. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is home to one of the largest and oldest castles in the world, Prague Castle, which has stood for more than a thousand years above the city along the Vltava River. Beneath the castle lies a historic district filled with narrow streets and hidden corners where visitors can experience the atmosphere of the Middle Ages.

6. Rome, Italy

Known as the “Eternal City,” Rome has a history stretching back around 3,000 years. The city proudly displays its ancient heritage through landmarks such as the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, and St. Peter’s Basilica. Despite its historic treasures, Rome remains a lively and energetic modern city rather than simply an open-air museum.

5. Paris, France

Paris is celebrated worldwide as a city of romance, art, culture, and the famous French appreciation for life. Visitors can explore countless attractions, including the Louvre Museum, Centre Pompidou, Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Sacré-Cœur Basilica, and the Palace of Versailles.

4. Sydney, Australia

Sydney combines spectacular natural beauty with impressive urban design. Located beside one of the world’s largest natural harbors and surrounded by long stretches of white sandy beaches, the city offers both outdoor adventures and iconic architecture, including the world-famous Sydney Opera House.

3. Vienna, Austria

Austria’s capital is known for its elegant architecture, imperial history, and refined cultural traditions. Landmarks such as St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Hofburg Palace, and Prater Park highlight the city’s historic charm, while Vienna’s legendary café culture continues to reflect the elegance of its former imperial era.

2. Budapest, Hungary

Many of Budapest’s most famous sights are located along the banks of the Danube River. Highlights include the historic Gellért Spa and its thermal baths, the university buildings, Castle Hill with Buda Castle, and the Hungarian Parliament Building. Because of its remarkable beauty, Budapest is often called the “Queen of the Danube.”

1. Florence, Italy

Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is considered by many to be the most beautiful city in the world. The city is filled with extraordinary museums, historic palaces, and architectural treasures. As the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence carries the legacy of legendary artists such as Leonardo da Vinci and many other masters whose works shaped the history of art.