Wanderlust · 8 min read · 2026

The 10 Greatest Cities In The World

Everyone's idea of the perfect city is different, but we reckon we've got it covered with these must-visit global destinations. Has your city made the list?

Short on time? Let us summarise this guide for you.

From New York’s skyscrapers and Rio’s beach-and-carnival energy to Tokyo’s futuristic buzz and London’s iconic streets, this guide rounds up ten city breaks that belong on every traveller’s list. Each pick includes a Holiday Extras Good Trip Index ranking, plus quick highlights and travel-guide links where available.

1. New York, USA

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23rd

You've seen it in thousands of movies (in various states of glory and destruction), and now is the time to explore the capital of the twentieth century - the city John Lennon, Frank Sinatra, Woody Allen and Dorothy Parker all called home.

British holidaymakers keep telling us that they're less inclined to visit Trump's America every year, with a third of holidaymakers currently eschewing the whole country - with New York standing out as the notable exception.

New York is one of those rare destinations that invariably exceeds visitors expectations, and the first time you roll into Lower Manhattan, surrounded by skyscrapers as high as the eye can see, is a moment you'll remember for the rest of your life. If you're a returning visitor to the Big Apple you'll already have a good idea of what to expect, but the city will still surprise you with its constantly-changing appeal.

2. Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

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65th

A mysterious and beautiful old city that's famous for its stunning beaches and lively Carnival atmosphere, Rio de Janeiro is one of the hottest destinations around. Brazil has been one of the biggest risers in our Good Trips Index for the past two years as a new government improves the safety and freedoms of both locals and visitors, so if you're looking for exotic but want a responsible trip, Brazil is just the ticket.

Key attractions include Ipanema Beach with its gorgeous mountain backdrop, the Maracana Stadium, Sugarloaf Mountain and of course the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, which overlooks the city. Visit in Carnival season (February and March) for a truly unrivalled experience.

3. Paris, France

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19th

In Paris, you'll find a vibrant mix of fascinating history and cosmopolitan modernity that makes it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe.

The City of Love is the perfect destination for a weekend of amour, with romantic restaurants and beautiful architecture around every corner. As well as top landmarks such as Notre-Dame and the Louvre, check out the French capital's flea markets and hidden hangouts to see the city through the eyes of a Parisian.

4. Baku, Azerbaijan

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132nd

Baku, Azerbaijan’s capital, is a fascinating blend of the ancient and futuristic. The walled old city, Icherisheher, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while the Flame Towers dominate the skyline with their ultra-modern design.

Take a stroll along the Caspian Sea promenade, known as the Baku Boulevard, and visit the Heydar Aliyev Center, an architectural masterpiece by Zaha Hadid. Whether you're exploring the historic Maiden Tower or enjoying the lively Fountains Square, Baku offers a unique East-meets-West experience.

5. Tokyo, Japan

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30th

Ask any keen traveller which city they'd most like to visit in their lifetime, and Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is a destination that comes up time and time again.

It's easy to see why, in a city where even the public transport is exciting and futuristic, you are guaranteed an eye-opening experience. From the natural beauty of the cherry blossom or sakura in spring to the ultra-modern architecture, highly inventive food and eye-popping fashion at any time of year, there is always something fun to do in Tokyo.

6. Cape Town, South Africa

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53rd

Cape Town has everything you could want from an urban destination: good weather, glorious views, a friendly vibe and beaches of pristine white sand for those times when you want to escape the hubbub of the city.

Popular haunts include the Two Oceans Aquarium, which showcases the city's impressive marine wildlife, the Castle of Good Hope, which is thought to be South Africa's oldest building, and of course Table Mountain, which is a constant majestic presence in the city. Take a cable car up into its cloudy peaks if you're feeling brave, the views are well worth it. We hear the Great White shark diving is pretty spectacular too.

It's also worth noting that you won't suffer any significant jet lag when travelling to Cape Town from the UK and back, as despite the distance, the city's time zone is only an hour ahead of our own.

7. Amsterdam, Netherlands

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8th

With its canals, bikes, higgledy-piggledy townhouses and leisurely pace of life, there is nowhere else quite like Amsterdam.

A short flight or train ride from the UK, the Dutch capital is a great place for a relaxed city break or longer holiday whether you're looking to immerse yourself in culture or just have fun. Check out the Van Gogh Museum or Rembrandt's House by day, then discover the city's infamous nightlife.

8. Barcelona, Spain

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18th

If what you want from a city break is wall-to-wall culture, outstanding architecture and thriving nightlife, Barcelona is your go-to destination.

The Catalan capital's legendary 24-hour culture makes it the ideal spot to enjoy the long, warm summer nights, while its wealth of art galleries, museums and beautiful parks will ensure you're occupied from dusk 'til dawn.

When you want to relax, Barcelona's bars and restaurants are fantastic places to hang out, enjoy authentic tapas and a glass of wine. Las Ramblas is a must-visit for drinking, dining and leisurely walks, while La Barceloneta beachfront is where you'll find boisterous bars and clubs.

9. Sydney, Australia

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20th

Sydney has it all: sun, iconic architecture, brilliant beaches, and a thriving sports and arts scene. The city plays host to several exciting events each year, including Australia Day in January, when the harbour comes alive with music, fireworks and a parade of colourfully decked out boats.

Popular attractions include Sydney Opera House, the Botanic Gardens which serve as an attractive walking route to the harbour and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Its best-known beach is Bondi Beach, a surfer's paradise that attracts tens of thousands of tourists every year.

10. London, UK

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15th

There's something for everyone in England's capital. History buffs and lovers of incredible architecture will be in their element wandering through London's famous streets. An amble through Westminster alone will take you past the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace and much of the West End, and there are plenty more iconic sites dotted across this diverse city.

A great way to make the most of your London trip is by booking a London City Breaks package with Holiday Extras. This includes a top London attraction (think theatre tickets, Thames river cruises, exhibitions, and so much more), an overnight stay at a London hotel plus breakfast the next morning.