Looking for a bucket list of beautiful cities to shape your travel goals around? In this article, we have compiled 18 of the world's most picturesque cities. Whether you're looking for spectacular natural landscapes or towering skyscrapers, read on for a variety of options to add to your travel goals.
London, United Kingdom
London has its place as one of the most popular cities in the world for good reason. Overflowing with historic architecture, juxtaposed by contemporary buildings and hip neighborhoods, it is an international city that truly has something for everyone. Each London neighborhood, or borough, is unique, and this diversity makes it one of the most dynamic and picturesque cities there is.
Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto is the imperial capital of Japan, peppered with shrines and temples that create a beautiful backdrop for the famous cherry blossoms that add a vibrant splash of color. This combination of ancient, spiritual buildings and iconic flora and fauna makes wonderful photo opportunities at every turn.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
A true cultural hub of Europe, Amsterdam is a picture postcard recognizable across the world. The central canal, passed by thousands of bicycles and pedestrians each day, hosts beautiful red brick buildings and holds its place as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wandering through the side streets, dipping in and out of galleries holding some of the world's best-known art, makes for a stunning few days away.
Budapest, Hungary
The great Danube River winds through the awe-inspiring city of Budapest, a spa city that attracts tourists from around the world. Architectural marvels such as the Parliament Building and St. Stephen's Basilica are a must-see, as well as the famous thermal baths that are not only relaxing but visually beautiful too.
Venice, Italy
The infamous canal city of Venice is bound to be found on any list of beautiful cities. A truly unique place, you can absorb the historic architecture of ancient homes and cathedrals from the romantic bridges found across the island's winding canals or even from a gondola coasting down the water itself. The history, art, and culture that has been preserved in Venice is truly a sight to behold and not to be missed from your travel bucket list.
Singapore, Singapore
Singapore is known the world over for its iconic modern architecture, such as Marina Bay Sands and Supertree Grove, lighting up at night and creating a splendid skyline. Not only is the city teeming with contemporary spaces, it is combined with the lush greenery of the region, such as rooftop parks and botanic gardens, that create a wonderful juxtaposition of the modern and natural world in one place. Singapore is also notoriously clean, setting it apart from the world's major cities where litter and waste can spoil the environment.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Rio de Janeiro is another global city in which cosmopolitan life and breathtaking natural beauty combine to have a unique effect. It boasts famous mountains, hills, and beaches that are easily accessible, one such mountain featuring the famous statue Christ the Redeemer and creating a stunning backdrop of the cityscape. Urban life in the favelas is interspersed with the historic buildings and natural vistas, creating a truly dynamic place to explore.
Seville, Spain
Historic and beautiful architecture is abundant in the Spanish city of Seville, including the cathedral, Real Alcázar palace, and the grand Plaza de España. The city also offers quaint neighborhoods with hundreds of narrow lanes to get lost in, as well as lush gardens and water features that add a natural element to the vibrant place. Street art and buzzing tapas bars add to the atmosphere and aesthetic, all in all creating the ultimate city destination.
Hoi An, Vietnam
Another city with excellently preserved history, Hoi An is iconic for its beautifully lantern-lit streets and river. Surrounded by countryside and rice paddies, you are never from from a rural escape with unique Vietnamese greenery, with plenty of charming markets to peruse throughout the day and night with their colorful wares. The city is captivating, and tourists from across the world flock there for its combination of history, art, and nature.
New York, United States of America
One of the world's most iconic cities, New York is a bastion of cosmopolitan life. From iconic landmarks like Grand Central Station and the Statue of Liberty to the beautiful Central Park, there is truly something for everyone. Each area of New York has something different to offer; whether it's the glitz and glamour of Broadway or the artsy streets of Chelsea and SoHo, you can witness a truly diverse global city in its full glory in New York.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is set amongst steep hills that create dozens of beautiful viewpoints over the charming homes of the city, as well as the blue ocean. Quaint cobbled streets lead you to eateries and bars rich with life and atmosphere, while famous squares and roads such as the Pink Road create a beautiful backdrop for a day of tourist activity.
Jaipur, India
India is full of unique and stunning cities, whether urban sprawls or mountainous towns. Jaipur is one of the most notable, referred to as the ‘Pink City' due to its famously colored buildings that set it apart. Not only is the architecture unique in coloring, but it reflects the fascinating history of the region, with forts and palaces blending Rajasthani and Mughal influences. The bazaars and markets are a colorful feast for the eyes, while the surroundings spotted with lakes and mountains create wonderful views.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai is famous the world over for its futuristic aesthetic. Boasting the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa, the skyline is one of the most impressive feats of manmade beauty on the globe. The city oozes luxury and excess, with stunning hotels, malls and mosques everywhere as well as beautifully tended and designed public spaces such as gardens and great water features. To top it off, the surrounding desert offers a stark natural contrast to the steel and platinum city.
Barcelona, Spain
The Sagrada Familia is one of the most famous buildings there is, and for good reason. Gaudi's ingenious design offers gothic and modern details that tower above you as you view the building, as it is still being completed today. From the inside, the stained glass windows create a stunning dappled glow upon the cathedral. The famous landmark is by no means all that Barcelona has to offer, though. With seaside views, wonderful parks, countless streets to explore, and typical Spanish architecture, you could spend many hours soaking up its aesthetic treasures.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
The old Town of Dubrovnik is an iconic setting, featured in films and television, that has preserved medieval architecture and truly transports its visitors back in time. The great walls surrounding the city, with their gates and towers, bring it a unique quality and provide stunning viewpoints over cathedrals, squares, and the Adriatic Sea. As a World Heritage Site, the historic beauty of Dubrovnik is closely protected, ensuring tourists of the future can enjoy it for many years to come.
Chefchaouen, Morocco
Chefchaouen is known for its famous blue-washed buildings, creating a uniform aesthetic that is truly unique. The blue hue creates a peaceful atmosphere, as you are always surrounded by different shades of blue, adding to the city's distinctive charm. The Medinas and Souks are typical of Moroccan culture, adding traditional culture to the city atmosphere and an endless array of sights and streets to explore.
Havana, Cuba
The colonial city of Havana is a truly unique sight to behold, its Spanish influence demonstrated in its neoclassical and art-deco buildings. The cobbled streets and squares are charming, often featuring local performers and artists, only adding to the atmosphere and visual appeal. Havana is colorful, with vibrant paintings across many of the buildings, as well as famous murals and graffiti that make for excellent photograph material. The city has a real sense of nostalgia, with vintage cars, art, and buildings all combining to develop a distinctive waterfront city experience.
Queenstown, New Zealand
Set on the lakeside of New Zealand's South Island, Queenstown is well-known for its stunning natural scenery. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains that tower amongst the clouds, the city is amongst some of nature's most wonderful creations. Not only this, but sweeping valleys and glacial landscapes also border the city, all of which combine to create a true natural marvel alongside what is a charming town in and of itself, brimming with culture and atmosphere.
18 Behaviors Branded as Low-Class by Society
18 Behaviors Branded as Low-Class by Society
18 Reasons Gen Z Believes They Should Be Paid Without Working
18 Reasons Gen Z Believes They Should Be Paid Without Working
18 Ways Parents Raise Failed Adults
18 Ways Parents Raise Failed Adults
18 Work Practices Millennials & Gen Z Refuse to Accept
18 Work Practices Millennials & Gen Z Refuse to Accept
23 Personal Topics You Should Never Share With Others
