Cape Town Tops List of Time Out Magazine’s “World’s Best Cities” 2025

Time Out Magazine has released its highly anticipated list of the “World’s Best Cities” for 2025, showcasing a diverse range of global destinations.

Topping the list is Cape Town, South Africa, captivating with its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and renowned food scene.

“The glorious South African hub scored highly across the board in our survey, with 97 percent of locals saying their city makes them happy, 95 percent giving its food scene a high rating and 82 percent describing it as beautiful – not bad going, right?” wrote Liv Kelly, Time Out Travel writer.

“It’s also got everything from fantastic nature (colonies of African penguins, Blue Flag beaches, Table Mountain) and top-tier city musts (brilliant bars, restaurants, and a Time Out Market, of course).” 

‘Steeped in history and cultural significance, Cape Town provides visitors with a plethora of options to learn, explore, and have fun, all without breaking the bank. Immerse yourself in the fishing culture of the city in trendy Kalk Bay, head to East City for a dose of Capetonian food and design, or be one with the natural world at the majestic Cape Point Nature Reserve,’ wrote Andrew Hallett, Time Out South Africa’s content director. 

Bangkok, Thailand secures second place, celebrated for its bustling energy, vibrant nightlife, and incredible street food.

New York City, USA maintains its iconic status in third, a global hub for arts, culture, and dining.

Rounding out the top five are Melbourne, Australia and London, England, both renowned for their livability, cultural diversity, and thriving arts scenes.

The list also highlights cities like New Orleans, USA, known for its unique music and vibrant festivals, and Mexico City, Mexico, a melting pot of cultures with a rich history and dynamic contemporary art scene.

Porto, Portugal and Shanghai, China are recognised for their charming historic centres and burgeoning culinary scenes.

Copenhagen, Denmark, is in the top ten and is celebrated for its sustainable living, design excellence, and “hygge” lifestyle.

The list also includes Marrakech, Morocco at 32nd, a captivating city with a rich history and vibrant souks, and Lagos, Nigeria at 41st, a burgeoning metropolis with a dynamic art scene and a growing reputation for its food scene.

Time Out Magazine’s “World’s Best Cities” list is based on a survey of over 20,000 city dwellers worldwide, considering factors such as food, drink, culture, nightlife, and livability.