The 10 Most Beautiful Cities in the World

In my Monday newsletters, I love to inspire you with my Top 10 lists. And today, the mission is simple (and delightful!): we’re going to explore together the 10 cities that, for me, are overflowing with beauty.

As Francis Bacon wisely said, “beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” And yes, ranking cities is a wild endeavor because everyone has their favorite corner of the world. Some of us love getting lost among ancient wonders, while others are captivated by soaring skyscrapers. But there are cities… oh, those cities! So exceptionally beautiful, whether due to their history or a gift from nature, that they simply have to be on your bucket list. If you’re seeking that urban pleasure that will leave you breathless, come with me to discover my 10 favorites! (And yes, this is a personal list, by no means exhaustive!).

And you, do you think I’ve missed a gem? I’d love for you to share your favorite city in the comments! That way, we can all expand the list together.

10. AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS

We’re starting strong with Amsterdam, a city I simply adore. Each of the thousands of buildings that line its main canals is a monument in itself, and together they create an aesthetic harmony that makes it one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It’s a stunning network of bridges, canals, fairytale cobblestone streets, elegant architecture, and… lots and lots of bicycles! Plus, gems like the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, and, of course, the poignant Anne Frank House await you here.

• Best time to visit: For me, the ideal time is between April and May (spring) or September to November (autumn), just before or after the summer high season. You’ll enjoy fewer tourists, mild temperatures, and see Amsterdam at its most relaxed and authentic.
• Recommended hotels: Read my selection of the 10 best luxury hotels in Amsterdam.

9. PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC

The magic of Prague, “the city of a thousand spires,” is something that must be experienced. I’m fascinated by how it preserves its countless historical monuments, which transport you to virtually every era. Its bridges over the Vltava River, especially the breathtaking Charles Bridge, are iconic, but the Old Town Square and Prague Castle are equally impressive. Add to this its cobblestone streets and atmospheric, winding alleys, and you’ll understand why few cities delight the senses as much as Prague.

• Best time to visit: Spring and autumn are my favorites, with clear skies, mild temperatures, and fewer tourists. Summers are hot, and as it’s high season, rates soar. But if you dream of a snow-covered Prague without the crowds, a romantic winter trip is your best bet.
• Recommended hotels: Read my selection of the 10 best luxury hotels in Prague.

8. HONG KONG, CHINA

Hong Kong, the “Pearl of the Orient”! Its skyline is, for me, one of the most impressive and photographed on the planet. The imposing skyscrapers and futuristic buildings, framed by a lush mountainous backdrop, create an urban landscape that is second to none. But beyond its profile, Hong Kong is synonymous with a vibrant lifestyle, friendly people, a splendid harbor, shopping to die for, and a culinary variety that will leave you speechless.

• Best time to visit: The city has wonderful weather from mid-September to late February, with warm and sunny days. From May to mid-September, it can be hot, humid, and muggy, with August being the rainiest month and the peak of typhoon season.
• Recommended hotels: Read my selection of the 10 best luxury hotels in Hong Kong.

7. PARIS, FRANCE

And what can be said about Paris, the City of Light? Glamorous, elegant, it inspires like no other. Monumental squares, centuries-old churches, its famous boulevards, the Seine with its romantic bridges, magnificent palaces, and the cobblestone streets of Montmartre… It has not only inspired artists from around the world but virtually every major capital, each dreaming of its own Champs-Élysées. Take a cruise on the Seine or simply watch life go by from a café terrace, and you’ll understand why so many people fall in love with Parisian beauty.

• Best time to visit: For me, spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October) are ideal. Lately, Paris has experienced extreme temperatures in summer and winter. The intense heat and pollution make summer less comfortable.
• Recommended hotels: St Regis, Cavalieri by Waldorf Astoria, Hotel de Russie, Hotel Hassler.

6. RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL

There’s a Brazilian saying that fascinates me: “God made the world in six days, the seventh he devoted to Rio.” And I promise you, when you visit, you’ll understand why. Blessed with one of the most dramatic and beautiful settings in the world, and home to Samba and the Caipirinha, Rio de Janeiro never ceases to amaze me. From the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue or the top of Sugarloaf Mountain, you’ll enjoy one of the most thrilling panoramas in the world: the deep blue of the Atlantic merging with the brilliant white of its sandy beaches and the fresh green of its lush tropical vegetation. Yes, this is undoubtedly “the marvelous city,” as its inhabitants call it.

• Best time to visit: My favorite months are September and October, in the spring, with dry, sunny, and warm weather. Summers in Rio are hot but with torrential rains, though it’s a great time if you want to experience the wild New Year’s Eve celebrations on Copacabana or the legendary Carnival in February. Winters are cooler (the beach might not be an option every day!) but mostly dry and sunny.
• Recommended hotels: Read my selection of the 10 best luxury hotels in Rio de Janeiro.

5. SAN FRANCISCO, USA

San Francisco… my San Francisco! There is no other metropolis in the U.S. so beloved by its inhabitants, and for good reason—it boasts one of the most beautiful settings in the world! Artistic, bohemian, and stunningly beautiful, the great appeal of San Francisco is its spectacular bay, surrounded by 43 hills. With an abundance of attractions, such as the bell-ringing cable cars, spectacular bridges (Golden Gate!), the infamous Alcatraz, the Ferry Building (a foodie’s paradise), and, of course, the sea lions at Pier 39, the best way to explore this magnificent city is by bicycle.

• Best time to visit: Autumn (September to November) is undoubtedly the best time to visit San Francisco, with warm temperatures and sunny days. Spring is also good, but expect slightly stronger breezes. Tourism peaks in summer, but be warned: it’s not the best time, as the city is often shrouded in fog (making the days quite cool and obscuring the views). Winter days often bring rain and low temperatures (even though it’s California!).
• Recommended hotels: Read my selection of the 10 best luxury hotels in San Francisco.

4. ROME, ITALY

The Eternal City, Rome. A true treasure, with its ancient monuments that transport you back in time, inspired by grandiose classical architecture and set among some of the most beautiful squares and avenues in the world. Of course, we all visit Rome for its famous landmarks: Vatican City with St. Peter’s Basilica, the Colosseum with the Roman Forum, and Piazza Navona with the nearby Trevi Fountain. But, a tip! Don’t forget to explore the lesser-known Trastevere district, filled with faded palaces, picturesque streets, and charming houses decorated with flower boxes. It’s one of my favorite corners.

• Best time to visit: Spring (April to June) and autumn (late September to October) are the ideal months to visit Rome: temperatures are mild, days are sunny, and the crowds are not yet at their peak. In summer, the city is packed and the weather is uncomfortably hot. Winters can be surprisingly cold, wet, and gray.
• Recommended hotels: St Regis, Cavalieri by Waldorf Astoria, Hotel de Russie, Hotel Hassler.

3. NEW YORK, USA

New York, New York, if you can make it here, you can make it anywhere! The Big Apple is my definition of cosmopolitan and continuously redefines the urban lifestyle. Here, you can immerse yourself in some of the world’s best museum collections, shop ’til you drop, attend world-class shows, and face deliciously difficult decisions when it comes to dining. And while we can’t deny that New York City is expensive, there are plenty of free things to do!

• Best time to visit: Anytime! Every season in Gotham offers a reason to visit. Early autumn brings cool breezes, bright sunshine, and pleasant temperatures (‘Indian summer’), and might be the best time for my taste. Winter can be cold, but that means better hotel rates. Spring is glorious, and New Yorkers celebrate the thaw by hitting the streets, shopping at outdoor markets, frolicking in Central Park, and dining al fresco. Summer can be unbearably hot, so I would try to avoid July and August.
• Recommended hotels: Read my selection of the 10 best luxury hotels in New York City.

2. VANCOUVER, CANADA

Vancouver, a gem that has captured my heart. Nestled between the Coast Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, it’s a place of Aboriginal legends and global citizenship, of natural beauty and international trade—a place like no other. Vancouver’s spectacular mountains, its wildlife-filled waters (where orcas feel at home!), and its lush rainforests (where bears roam freely) surpass the beauty of the city itself, where ultramodern glass skyscrapers reflect the fabulous views around them. Add to this the relaxed mindset of its super-friendly inhabitants, and you have an incredible trip… as long as it’s not raining!

• Best time to visit: Vancouver is known for its abundant rainfall in autumn, winter, and spring, so I would try to visit between June and September to enjoy the most reliable and dry weather.
• Recommended hotels: Read my selection of the 10 best luxury hotels in Vancouver.

1. CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

And here it is, my number one: Cape Town! Blessed with some of the most stunning beaches in the world, breathtakingly beautiful mountains, rolling hills of vineyards, spectacular scenic drives, and tons of trendy bars and fine dining restaurants to choose from, it’s hard to imagine a more perfect urban destination than South Africa’s Mother City (and frankly, you won’t find a better one). Combine this with some of the best accommodation and service options available anywhere in the world, and you have one of the most attractive urban destinations you will ever visit (and you’ll want to come back again and again). Check out this YouTube video with my impressions of Cape Town!

• Best time to visit: Cape Town’s hot, dry summer months run from late October to March/April. Temperatures peak between December and February, and this is generally considered the best time to go if you’re looking for a dream beach holiday.
• Recommended hotels: Read my selection of the 10 best luxury hotels in Cape Town.

Top 3 Cities at a Glance: A Comparative Look

City	Best For	Peak Season	Dominant Vibe	Iconic Landmark
Cape Town	Natural Beauty & Adventure	Dec – Feb	Laid-back & Outdoorsy	Table Mountain
Vancouver	Urban Nature & Outdoor Activities	Jun – Sep	Health-conscious & Relaxed	Stanley Park
New York	Culture, Arts & Urban Energy	Sep – Oct, Dec	Fast-paced & Electric	Statue of Liberty

Analytical Summary: This comparison highlights three distinct types of world-class cities. Cape Town is the undisputed champion for travelers who prioritize raw, dramatic natural beauty fused with a vibrant, relaxed culture. Vancouver offers a more harmonious blend, where a sophisticated city seamlessly integrates with pristine wilderness, appealing to the active, eco-conscious traveler. New York City, in contrast, is the ultimate concrete jungle, an unparalleled hub of culture, art, and relentless energy for those who thrive on the pulse of a global metropolis.

Recommendation: Your perfect destination depends entirely on your travel style. If your ideal luxury trip involves breathtaking scenery, world-class wine, and thrilling outdoor adventures, choose Cape Town. For a seamless blend of sophisticated urban living and rugged outdoor exploration, Vancouver is unparalleled. And if you seek the thrill of the world’s cultural and entertainment capital, where every moment is an event, New York City is your definitive choice.