Cape Town Wins Top Honour as Time Out’s Best City in the World for 2025
Cape Town has taken the top spot on Time Out’s annual list of the world’s best cities, a fitting recognition of its unique blend of natural and urban attractions. The city climbed to the top of the global list from second place last year, beating out 49 other cities in the process.
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What Sets Cape Town Apart
According to Time Out, Cape Town stands out for its diverse range of experiences, from visiting the iconic Table Mountain and exploring the Cape Winelands to enjoying vibrant nightlife and diverse culinary delights. The city’s unique blend of natural and urban attractions has made it a world-class destination.
“To be recognised as Time Out’s Best City in the World is a huge high five to the Capetonians who work so hard to create a city which can be enjoyed by locals and visitors alike,” said Andrew Hallett, Time Out South Africa’s content director. He encouraged visitors to explore the city, promising an unforgettable experience.
Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis echoed this sentiment, highlighting the recognition as particularly meaningful because it reflects the views of Cape Town residents. “All our work is aimed at making Cape Town the best city in the world to live in – where people are able to build lives of value and where they have a real sense of ownership of their city – and we could not be prouder that this came across so strongly in the responses of our residents,” he said.
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Time Out’s Methodology: What Makes a City Truly Great?
For the seventh edition of its global survey, Time Out engaged its readers and a panel of more than 100 city experts. Participants shared insights on everything from food and culture to green spaces and friendliness. In addition to being beautiful, 97% of Cape Town’s residents said the city makes them happy, reflecting a strong sense of community pride and well-being.
“Our annual list of Time Out’s Best Cities in the World right now proves that if you want to know what makes a city truly great, ask a local,” said Grace Beard, travel editor at Time Out. “Cape Town excelled in liveability, natural beauty, and cultural offerings, making it a standout choice for 2025.”
The Full List: Cape Town Tops 50 Cities Worldwide
Time Out’s list includes 50 cities worldwide. Along with Cape Town, Bangkok, New York, Melbourne, and London round out the top five. Other cities in the top ten include New Orleans, Mexico City, Copenhagen, Porto, and Shanghai.
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Cape Town Tourism CEO Enver Duminy highlighted the city’s unique charm and the role of its people in earning the top accolade. “Cape Town is a city built on its people’s passion, resilience, and creativity. From bustling markets to serene beaches, every corner of our city tells a story of community and connection,” he stated.
“This win celebrates who we are and what we stand for.”
James Vos, a member of the mayoral committee for economic growth in Cape Town, emphasised the city’s vibrant spirit and global appeal. “This recognition speaks volumes about the incredible spirit of Cape Town. From our stunning landscapes to our awesome communities, it’s no wonder we’re considered the best. This is a shared achievement, and we’re excited to continue growing and attracting visitors.”
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