Cities are where the world’s heart beats the loudest. Where people come together, along with their cultures, to create something beautiful. Our cities are vibrant, colorful, delicious, and beautiful. They are arguably what makes the world go round. While all cities inherently have both good and bad elements, some consistently provide inhabitants and visitors with a better experience.
A new report from Resonance Consultancy ranked the top 100 cities in the world. The report studied cities with populations greater than one million. A wide range of metrics were considered in order to determine the rank of each city. Metrics include safety, weather, quality of neighborhoods and cultural institutions, airport connectivity, arts and entertainment programming, diversity rate, prosperity, and much more.
6. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is such a popular city that it frequently suffers from over-tourism. Recent measures to address the issue, along with urban modifications to cope with Covid, have led to a revitalization of the city. Barcelona boasts 125 miles of bike lanes with more on the way. Covid drove officials to rethink how people use urban space. New playgrounds and outdoor seating have taken hold where traffic and parking once reigned supreme. Those measures combined with Barcelona’s idyllic weather, urban beaches, and incredible public art, mean that it was ranked the 3rd best city in the world for its natural and built environment.
5. Dubai, UAE
Dubai was ranked as one of the safest cities in the world. This is one of the many reasons why it become a hotspot for international tourism and business in recent years. It’s not just the ultramodern buildings that give visitors a glimpse into the future. Dubai’s new Museum of the Future has quickly become an iconic landmark that explores what is ahead for human society. Dubai is not only popular for its safety and record-breaking skyscrapers. It also has amazing resorts, beautiful beaches and is currently the most viral destination for young travelers on TikTok.
4. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo tops the charts for its shopping and restaurants. Japan’s Capital City is home to a population of 39 million. So, it is no wonder that it is also king of retail and dining. Tokyo has the second-highest number of restaurants of any city with an estimated 100,000 establishments. It is also ranked as one of the safest cities in the world. Residents and tourists can enjoy the food, shopping, and unique culture without having to worry.
3. New York, USA
New York is ranked as one of the best cities for arts and entertainment programming. Visitors to NYC have so many options, as it truly is a city that offers something for everyone. Fans of live theatre have a new place to visit. The Museum of Broadway has opened in Times Square to great fanfare. The Met, which typically sees around 7 million visitors, just announced a massive $500 million renovation. And the city has invested in new green space. The otherworldly Little Island is something to see. Situated on an old pier on the banks of the Hudson, this unique new public park brings an oasis of nature and art to the hustle and bustle of the city.
Additionally, the region’s airports all have had recent upgrades and officials expect the addition of 9,000 new hotel rooms by the end of 2023. New York City has proven once again that it is a world-class place to live, work, and visit.
2. Paris, France
Paris ranked best in the world for sights and landmarks. As we reported a few weeks back, it is one of the European cities with the most free attractions. It is also one of the cities where it is easiest to get around, thanks to its efficient public transportation, bike and e-scooter share programs, and ambitious dedication to bike paths throughout the city.
Officials have decided that many of the pandemic-led changes that are beneficial to every day will remain. Many streets have been pedestrianized, and 60,000 parking spaces have been allocated to restaurants for outdoor seating. These changes make Paris a more livable city for residents and a more welcoming place for tourists.
1. London, UK
London tops the list for the 7th year in a row, and for good reason. Despite recent events that have proven tumultuous – Brexit, the impact of Covid, the Queen’s death, and the dramatic resignation of two Prime Ministers, London’s reign at the top can’t be shaken.
London ranked particularly high for its diversity and immigration rate, further exemplifying the city’s reputation as a melting pot. Anyone who has been to London can tell you that the city’s culinary scene is one of the best in the world, in part because of the city’s diversity.
London has a reputation for being expensive. But the recent world and domestic events have weakened the UK’s currency, making it a more affordable tourist destination than in recent years. The city has also become more connected with the US. JetBlue chose London as its inaugural European destination in the summer of 2022.
2023’s Honorary Best City
While the top 6 cities are certainly world-class, it is also worth mentioning one other city. 2023’s Honorary Best City is Kyiv, Ukraine. Kyiv, and its people, have been recognized for their courage and resilience in the face of an unthinkable war. The city is noted for its ancient churches, modern cafes, public art, secret bars, and inexpensive subway. And if history has taught us anything, Kyiv will stand up, rebuild, and come back stronger than ever.
