The 10 Best Cities in the World 2025, According to Travel + Leisure
Fundacion Rapala – What makes a city truly great to travel? It’s not only about trendy neighborhoods or delicious food. A great city should also offer easy transportation, green spaces, and a welcoming atmosphere.
This year, Travel + Leisure released the results of its 30th annual World’s Best Awards, and a charming Mexican city has taken the crown.
San Miguel de Allende Crowned the World’s Best City
According to the survey, the best city in the world for 2025 is San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. The recognition is well deserved. This colonial-era gem continues to impress travelers with its cultural richness and timeless beauty.
Moreover, it is remarkable that San Miguel de Allende outranked global giants like Tokyo, Bangkok, and Jaipur. This shows that travelers value authenticity and cultural depth just as much as modern convenience.
Meanwhile, Chiang Mai, Thailand, secured second place, followed closely by Tokyo, Japan, in third. Indonesia also entered the list with Ubud, Bali, ranked ninth.
Why San Miguel de Allende Stands Out
San Miguel de Allende is not just beautiful; it is also deeply symbolic in Mexican history. The city played a key role during the Mexican Revolution as the birthplace of heroes Ignacio Allende and Juan Aldama.
In addition, the Santuario de Jesús Nazareno de Atotonilco, a magnificent Baroque church, remains a powerful landmark. Rebel soldiers once prayed there for protection before battles.
Today, however, San Miguel de Allende blends history with modern life. Visitors can enjoy:
- A vibrant nightlife scene
- Artisan shopping at Mercado de Artesanías and Tianguis Orgánico Artesanal Mxli
- Easy access to nearby wine country
As a result, the city has become a favorite for both culture enthusiasts and leisure travelers.
The Top 10 Best Cities in the World 2025 (Travel + Leisure)
- San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
- Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Tokyo, Japan
- Bangkok, Thailand
- Jaipur, India
- Hoi An, Vietnam
- Mexico City, Mexico
- Kyoto, Japan
- Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
- Cuzco, Peru
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, these rankings highlight what travelers seek most: a balance of history, culture, and modern comforts. Whether it’s Mexico’s artistic energy, Asia’s spiritual charm, or Bali’s natural beauty, 2025 offers unforgettable destinations around the world.