Cape Town has been crowned Time Out’s Best City in the World for 2025, beating Bangkok, New York, Melbourne, and London to claim the top spot. The Mother City climbed from second place last year, solidifying its reputation as a world-class destination.
This recognition comes from Time Out’s annual survey of over 18,500 residents across the globe, where Cape Town scored exceptionally well in categories such as food, nightlife, culture, affordability, and happiness.
“Cape Town is a city built on its people’s passion, resilience, and creativity,” said Cape Town Tourism CEO Enver Duminy.
Photo by Thomas Bennie on Unsplash
Why Cape Town Stands Out
Cape Town offers an unmatched blend of natural beauty and urban charm. Visitors can hike the iconic Table Mountain, indulge in wine-tasting tours in the Cape Winelands, or enjoy the vibrant culinary and nightlife scenes.
This award is a reflection of Capetonians’ dedication to creating a city that’s not only breathtaking but also welcoming to locals and visitors alike.
Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis highlighted that the accolade mirrors the pride of the city’s residents:
“All our work is aimed at making Cape Town the best city in the world to live in… We could not be prouder.”
Photo by Tim Johnson on Unsplash
Time Out’s Global Survey
Time Out surveyed residents from 50 cities worldwide, evaluating factors like liveability, green spaces, friendliness, and cultural offerings. Cape Town’s ability to deliver happiness to 97% of its residents stood out, with strong community pride evident throughout the survey results.
“Our list of the world’s best cities shows that to truly understand what makes a city great, you need to ask its locals,” said Grace Beard, Travel Editor at Time Out.
Photo by Thomas Bennie on Unsplash
A Shared Achievement
This accolade is more than just a title. It celebrates Cape Town’s vibrant communities, awe-inspiring landscapes, and cultural richness.
“This recognition speaks volumes about Cape Town’s spirit,” said James Vos, Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth.
Cape Town’s triumph is a shared achievement for its residents and visitors alike. Ready to experience the world’s best city? Pack your bags and explore the Mother City today.
