More than 128,000 readers of
Condé Nast Traveler voted for their favorite cities in the world outside of the
U.S. and the votes have been tallied. It should come as no surprise that the
major cities such as Rome, London and Paris made the list, thanks to their
iconic landmarks, fantastic cuisine and abundance of things to see and do.
There are a couple of sneaky cities that made this list, ones that are not
obvious at first but once you dig deeper it becomes abundantly clear why they
are favorites. Discover the top 10 best cities in the world as of 2015
according to the readers of Condé Nast Traveler:
It is one of the world’s most visited cities and offers an
abundance of things to see and do for people of any age. London is a mash of
wide-open spaces and chaotic cityscape, a combination that seemingly works for
this city. Central London is where you will find the awesome galleries and
museums, and the most iconic of sites, the double decked buses and the famous
phone booths. The landmarks such as Big Ben, Tower Bridge and the London Eye
enthrall visitors as does Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and Hampton Court Palace
with their beautiful green spaces. There are a ton of restaurants, bars and
clubs to choose from when the sun goes down, along with friendly locals. Arts,
culture, history- you will find it all here in this city that rates as one of
the best 10 cities in the world in 2015.
9. Kyoto, Japan
Step back into time when you visit Japan’s ancient city of
Kyoto where quiet temples, sublime gardens and colorful shrines make up the
landscape. There are said to be over 1000 Buddhist temples found in this city
and it is here where visitors can appreciate the masterpieces of religious
architecture. The city is surrounded by mountains on three sides which offer
incredible hiking. Don’t be surprised when wandering the streets to find a
secret temple or unique shop that you may have passed by and not noticed, as it
seems secrets lie throughout this city. A large range of excellent restaurants
are located throughout the city, most housed in traditional wooden buildings
where you can gaze over incredible gardens while you eat. Experience the
ancient times of Japan as you wander the streets, stopping to chat with friendly
locals, visit the ancient specialty shops such as pickle vendors or tea
merchants and ending your day with a soak in the local public bathhouse. It
will be clear why this is one of the best cities in the world.
8. Bruges, Belgium
Entering this city is to be transported into the middle of a
fairy-tale that is based in a medieval town. Cobblestone streets, market
squares with soaring towers and historic churches at every turn help make this
one of the most picturesque cities in the world. Built between the 12th and
15th century, it remains one of the best preserved medieval cities. Dreamy
canals link the market squares, nighttime brings evening floodlighting and in
the spring the daffodils cover the courtyards. It is one of the most visited
cities as well, due to its overwhelming beauty. Visiting in the winter is the
best away to avoid the throngs of tourists, and although cold and icy, there is
something magical about this medieval city when it’s covered in snow. Make sure
you spend at least a couple of days exploring here.
7. Prague, Czech Republic
This beautiful historic town is worth visiting for the beer
alone- kidding, sort of. Arguably, it does boast the best beer in Europe but
there are so many other reasons that this city was voted number 7 as the best
in the world. It’s maze of cobbled streets and hidden courtyards are a paradise
for those who love to wander throughout the city, exploring ancient chapels,
awe-inspiring gardens and hidden pubs with no tourists in site. The landmarks
are truly spectacular here, from the 14th century stone bridge to the hilltop
castle to the lovely lazy river that inspired one of the most beautiful pieces
of 19th century classical music, Smetana’s Moldau. Quirky doesn’t even begin to
describe this city, with its nuclear hidden bunkers, cubist lampposts and
interesting fountains. Marvel at the Bohemian art, discover the stunning
architecture and order a beer by simply placing a beer mat on the table.
6. Rome, Italy
Italy’s eternal city continues to enthrall visitors from all
over the globe. Rome is known for its history, fine art and incredible food.
There are endless sights to take in including The Colosseum, Pantheon and St.
Peter’s Basilica. There are extraordinary restaurants to eat at, cafés to drink
at and tiny local shops down alley ways that serve up the best pizza and pasta
you have ever had in your life. Masterpieces by Michelangelo and fountains by
Bernini are strewn throughout the city as well as towering ancient churches
overflowing with beautiful stained glass and ornate decorations. Whether you
are a history buff that can spend weeks wandering through this city, or a
foodie who wants to enjoy local wine and fine dining, or someone who just wants
to experience an incredible city, full of locals with a gruff sense of humor,
Rome should be at the top of your list.
5. Paris, France
It has established itself as one of the most beautiful
cities in the world, boasting iconic landmarks, cobblestone streets, historic
buildings and charming sidewalk cafes. There would be no point in visiting this
city if you are planning on skipping the most iconic landmark, the Eiffel
Tower. Make sure not to miss the other “big” sights though, such as the Arc de
Triomphe, the Notre Dame cathedral, and the impressive Louvre. Finding a place
to grab a bite to eat here is almost overwhelming as it’s reputation for
cuisine is outstanding. Whether you are looking for a neighborhood bistro or an
epic fine dining experience, every single establishment here prides itself on
it’s food and wine. Paris also happens to be one of the great art repertoires
of the world, with scores of museums throughout the city, from the famous
Louvre to the smaller ones boasting contemporary and modern art. There is no
shortage of places to discover in this incredible city.
4. Sydney, Australia
It is Australia’s biggest city and even after spending a
month here it can feel as though you have barely scratched the surface of what
it has to offer. The city can be loud, in your face and chaotic offering crazy
firework displays, drag queen clubs, hip bars, live music and no shortage of
parties to attend. Sydney can also be wild in terms of nature, with National
Parks bordering the city and working their way into it. Native critters show up
in unsuspecting places and parks compete with skyscrapers and suburbs. Spend
endless hours at the beach, specifically Bondi Beach, one of the world’s
greatest beaches. Dine at lively restaurants, visit the Sydney Tower for
spectacular views from the glass platform or spend hours’ people watching from
one of the outdoor cafes.
3. Vienna, Austria
Packed with history, host to great nightlife, full of
incredible restaurants and home to quiet tucked away corners, Vienna is a city
that begs to be explored. It is one of the most musical cities in the world in
part due to the great number of composers and musicians that were born here,
lived here and worked here. Visitors to the city should count on taking in the
incredible music at one of the famous music venues such as the Staatsoper and
Musikverein. Dining in the city is always a treat with its bistro pubs serving
up delicious brews and wine, or in creative restaurants where chefs are taking
things to a new culinary level. An incredible transportation system makes it
easy to get around, the city is known for being incredible safe and the locals
are both welcoming and friendly.
2. Budapest, Hungary
This city is rich in history, natural cites and unique
cuisine, drawing visitors from all over the world. A famous hallmark of
Budapest is their hot springs that surround the city, making bathhouses one of
the most popular activities in the city. Soak your troubles away in one of the
many that are located within the city. Budapest is often called “The Paris of
the East” due to its stunning architecture including Roman ruins and the Buda
Castle which was built in 1265. Don’t count on just indulging in goulash, there
is actually a lot more to Hungarian food and Budapest has the reputation of
being a food capital, offering incredible dining options along with excellent
wine. Discover a city whose history is almost too complex to understand, a city
that is rebuilding with hope and reconciliation, a city that will leave you
feeling in awe of it.
1. Florence, Italy
Despite Rome and its incredible architecture, and Milan-
fashion capital of the world; the best city in Italy and the world in 2015 is
actually Florence. Some say you can visit time and time again and not see it
all. This city is romantic, magnetic and busy, home to incredible world-class
art, food and wine. Don’t miss the iconic Uffizi Gallery or the modern-art
museum- Museo Novecento, as well as the Palazzo Vecchio, the stunning fortress
palace. Head to the maze of streets in San Lorenzo for a food lover’s paradise
or to the 400-year-old pharmacy that still sells traditional elixirs in the
central square of Piazza di Santa Maria Novella. The narrow streets of this
city tell a thousand tales, through its historic buildings, through the food
and wine, and it’s no wonder why it’s number one on this list.
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