Countries
Cities
Continents
blog posts
Taking on the World, One City at a Time
Photograph: Sean Pavone / Shutterstock.com
The 53 best cities in the world in 2022
We quizzed 20,000 city-dwellers to rank the best cities in the world right now. Ready?
Edited by
Contributors
&
Monday 11 July 2022
Every year, we quiz thousands of city-dwellers worldwide about life in their hometown right now. We want to know about the restaurant scene and the bar circuit. The theatre and the art galleries. The nightlife and the dating apps. What do the neighbors like and which neighborhoods are actually cool? The idea is to create a global snapshot of city living and point people in the direction of the places locals are really raving about.
And now… the results of the Time Out Index 2022 are in! As ever, we’ve crunched all that data and used it to come up with our annual ranking of the world’s greatest cities. For the past two years, the list has focused on how cities pulled together through the pandemic and made life (just about) tolerable during lockdowns. But now, after two years of travel curbs, the world is opening up again, and we – like you – are itching to get back out there.
So while things like community spirit and resilience were two of the most important factors last year, in 2022 we’ve added extra weight to the things that make cities great places to visit as well as to live. Our top cities this year are the ones with thriving nightlife, amazing food and drink, and art, culture, and museums galore. We’ve highlighted places that aren’t boring or overly expensive or overrated, and we’ve ensured that our top picks also score well for practical stuff like walkability, good public transport, safety, as well sustainability.
We’ve also tapped into our global network of expert editors and contributors for the inside scoop on what’s making each city tick right now, what’s new, and what’s generally popping off. All of this means that if you are planning a city break this year (especially if it’s your first in a long, long time) then these are the places to go. Catch you out there.
The 53 best cities in the world for 2022
Photograph: David Ridley / Shutterstock.com
- Edinburgh
What makes us great: We all know what Edinburgh is best known for. But year-round, the Scottish capital is hard to beat, with landmarks, architecture, and scenic hotspots that make it one of the most beautiful cities to explore on foot, as well as a food and drink scene that has an ever-evolving selection of forward-thinking bars and eateries, from new Leith restaurant and wine bar Eleanore to Bonnie & Wild’s Scottish Marketplace at the St James Quarter. This is a city full of warmth that encourages self-expression across communities via its art, culture, and nightlife. It’s progressive and forever welcoming to all groups (no wonder 88 percent of locals told us it was easy to ‘express who you are in the city). Plus, there’s the small matter of those festivals returning this August…
Visit now because There are some terrific new openings worth checking out, including Glasgow Asian-inspired favorite Ka Pao, Stockbridge chocolate café Ocelot and Leith neighborhood gem Cocorico. The city is also about to get Scotland’s first ‘vertical distillery’ in the form of the Port of Leith Distillery on the waterfront.
The big numbers: Edinburgh ranked highly in the Index across the board, coming top for both the number of residents who thought the city was beautiful (95 percent) and those who deemed it walkable (93 percent). And who would we be to argue with that very, very sweet combo? —Arusa Qureshi, Time Out Edinburgh
Explore the city:
The Edinburgh Fringe is back – but what do the locals think?
📍 Discover the best things to do in Edinburgh
Photograph: S-F / Shutterstock.com
- Chicago
What makes us great: It may have been a tough week for our city, but we know Chicago will pull through: a massive 55 percent of locals described it as resilient in this year’s Index (the fourth highest in the world), and we’d be inclined to agree. After two years of on-off restrictions, we’ve come out stronger and more united, and now our beloved Midwest metropolis is thriving again – so much so, that it was voted the funniest city in the world this year, too. Whether you want to try world-class dining, party until 4 am at historic clubs, spend a day soaking up the sun along Lake Michigan, see iconic artworks or just wander among different neighborhoods, there’s never a dull moment to be had (yes, even when winter rolls around).
Visit now because: The food scene is popping off. We’re talking everything from sleek, high-end restaurants on Randolph Street and the country’s first-ever Michelin-starred Filipino tasting menu to some of the best mom-and-pop Mexican joints you’ll find in a big US city.
The big numbers: A whopping 96 percent of locals rate Chicago highly for its food and drink – the second highest in the world – with 95 percent saying the same about the city’s art and culture scene. —Emma Krupp, Time Out Chicago
Explore the city:
How one pioneering nonprofit is helping Chicago’s youth explore their city
📍 Discover the best things to do in Chicago
ADVERTISING
Photograph: Fotos593 / Shutterstock.com
- Medellín
What makes us great: Known as the City of Eternal Spring, Medellín offers more than just good weather year-round. Fervently proud of their city (this being the only one in Colombia to have a metro system), the Paisa people are brimming with energy, entrepreneurship, and curiosity; it’s really hard not to make good friends here. In this year’s survey, Medellín’s nightlife was voted the world’s best, though that’s perhaps not all that surprising given this is the city that gave us reggaeton artists J Balvin, Maluma, and Karol G. El Social, Salón Amador, Vintrash or any bar along La 70 will show you a good time.
Visit now because Design-forward boutique hotels, like Quinta Ladera and Landmark, are popping up all over the city, showcasing impressive Colombian craftsmanship. Meanwhile, suave cocktail bar Casa El Ramal just opened in Manila and Mad Radio in Provenza hosts sets by DJs from Medellín and beyond.
The big numbers: This city sure likes to indulge itself. Medellín was voted the best in the world for eating and drinking (with 97 percent of Medellinenses saying the food and booze here are good), and the same goes for nightlife (90 percent) and community spirit (94 percent). —Laura Field
Explore the city:
Meet the chefs putting Medellín on the culinary map
Photograph: Jaroslav Moravcik / Shutterstock.com
- Glasgow
What makes us great: Casual kindness and good humor prevail in the city voted friendliest in this year’s Index. Glasgow excels at being outgoing and at going out. At SWG3, the world’s first body-heated club, dancing literally helps keep the lights on. There are now two Michelin-star restaurants after a long drought (Cail Bruich and Unalome), yet a burgeoning dining scene is best characterized by friendly informality and good value for money (Glasgow was the city second least likely to be described as expensive). The dusty Barrowland Ballroom remains the reassuringly unchanging temple to live music you and your favorite band deserve.
Visit now because: Glasgow was doing quality meat-free dining way before it was fashionable and natural wine bar and vegetarian/vegan restaurant Sylvan continues the trend. Other top-tier recent openings include Crabshakk (for excellent seafood and cocktails) and Big Counter (uncategorizable, in the best way possible).
The big numbers: An enormous 78 percent of Glaswegians described their city as friendly, pipping last year’s winner Manchester to the top spot. The city also ranked well overall thanks to its vast amount of green space and the variety of things to do. —Malcolm Jack
Explore the city:
Musicians in Exile: the Glasgow orchestra helping rebuild the lives of refugees
📍 Discover the best things to do in Glasgow
ADVERTISING
Photograph: oliverdelahaye / Shutterstock.com
- Amsterdam
What makes us great: In many ways, Amsterdam is the perfect destination. It brims with great places to see art and pick up jazzy gifts, but is also damn chilled out; it’s large enough to reward exploration yet still eminently walkable (or cyclable!) The city combines a buzzy social scene and vibrant nightlife with tolerance and diversity – Index respondents named their city the easiest place in the world to ‘express who you are’, and also voted it the second most progressive in the world. No wonder so many commentators say this is the model twenty-first-century metropolis.
Visit now because The city’s festival circuit is finally back in action – go for Pride (August 5 to 7), when flotillas of boats will turn the inner canal ring into party central, or the notoriously wild (and very fun) Amsterdam Dance Event (October 19 to 23).
The big numbers: In news that will surprise absolutely no one, 100 percent of Amsterdammers said they could easily navigate the city on two wheels – making it the best place in the world for cyclists. One hundred percent! —Derek Robertson
Explore the city:
Why Amsterdam is the real best city in the world, according to the boss of the Rijksmuseum
📍 Discover the best things to do in Amsterdam
Photograph: Milan Sommer / Shutterstock.com
- Prague
What makes us great: Few capitals look so good, so it’s no surprise that Prague was voted the world’s third most beautiful city in this year’s Index. But it isn’t just a pretty face. Visitors are discovering an increasingly attractive quality of life, demonstrated by a huge number of galleries and museums, and quality, affordable dining all over the shop. Locals stress it’s easy to ‘get around on public transport too. For some peace and quiet, take their advice and get back to nature, notably at Divoká Šárka Valley, which you can reach without even having to leave the city.
Visit now because: Revamped public spaces have much to offer. The recently completed riverbank at Náplavka has been nominated for a prestigious architecture award. Downstream, leafy Střelecký Ostrov island offers timeless views.
The big numbers: A good 90 percent percent of Praguers said their city was beautiful, and even more – 96 percent – said they rated the city’s public transport system. Trams, they rule, now. —David Creighton
📍 Discover the best things to do in Prague
ADVERTISING
Photograph: Pe3k / Shutterstock.com
- Marrakech
What makes us great: Community, creativity, and faith in the future have seen Marrakech come roaring out of the pandemic with a new lease of life. The city has long been famous as an international melting pot, but lockdown created space for local entrepreneurs to flex their muscles by opening cool new boutiques like Moro and restaurants such as Mouton Noir. A new international storytelling festival greeted the city’s first post-pandemic visitors in February, while big players like La Mamounia are sporting sassy new looks and El Fenn launched the hottest Sunday music nights in town. No wonder visitors can’t wait to return.
Visit now because Morocco’s cultural capital is thriving right now. Those sessions on El Fenn’s rooftop are not to be missed, while MACAAL and MCC Gallery host brilliant modern African art exhibitions.
The big numbers: Think of Marrakech and you’ve almost certainly got the city’s packed, buzzing medina in mind, so it’s no wonder the city ranked so highly for getting to know your neighbors (68 percent of respondents said this was easy – the highest in the world) and making new friends (70 percent). —Paula Hardy
📍 Discover the best things to do in Marrakech
Photograph: JJFarq / Shutterstock.com
- Berlin
What makes us great: There is truly something for every kind of visitor in Berlin. The city’s infamous weekend-long parties are in full force, and when it comes to fine dining, the German capital has never been more minted. From revolutionary walking tours to cutting-edge contemporary art shows, smaller budgets are very well catered for (just 10 percent of respondents described the city as expensive, in fact, which is the lowest anywhere in the world). Relax at one of the city’s beloved spas, or get your heart pumping at an all-night rave in one of Berlin’s world-renowned clubs – you’ll go away reinvigorated either way.
Visit now because: Travelling within the city has never been cheaper: between June and August, a pass that covers trains, trams and buses will set you back just €9 per month.
The big numbers: When it comes to transport, in fact, Berliners consider themselves very, very fortunate indeed. An incredible 97 percent praised the city’s public transit system – the highest in any city in the world. —Nathan Ma
📍 Discover the best things to do in Berlin
ADVERTISING
Photograph: Kristi Blokhin / Shutterstock.com
- Montreal
What makes us great: There’s never been a more exciting time to visit Montreal. The city has bounced back post-pandemic, with a crop of new restaurants, bars, and some seriously positive energy. Montreal’s awe-inspiring architecture, friendly vibes, and legendary hospitality haven’t changed – and that mix of European culture and Québécois joie de vivre is still alive and well – but you’ll discover fresh new stuff, whether it’s Michelin-calibre meals or mind-blowing budget food.
Visit now because: It’s prime festival season, with the whole city coming together to celebrate art and culture on every corner. We’re talking free concerts, waterfront festivals, and a nightlife scene on steroids.
The big numbers: Montreal boasts solid results across the board: 93 percent of locals rate the city’s food and drink scene, while 82 percent praised its art and museums, and 80 percent said it’s easy to take a walk in nature. A true all-rounder. —Laura Osborne, Time Out Canada
📍 Discover the best things to do in Montreal
Photograph: vatolstikoff / Shutterstock.com
- Copenhagen
What makes us great: The Danish capital is much more than bakeries and hot people on bikes. Enjoy these (and then some) by enjoying the city on foot (something 86 percent of Copenhageners said is easy, according to our survey). Dip into markets like Torvehallerne, Broens Gadekøkken, Banegaarden and Reffen, before hiring an electric GoBoat and chatting to other amateur cruisers when you dock for a beer in the sun. Come evening, explore the city’s world-beating nightlife and stay out until late – this really is a city that likes to party (and all the more so post-Covid).
Visit now because: Few cities have embraced their waterways quite like Copenhagen. Hydrofoil bikes, floating saunas, jacuzzis, and even kayak bars will all be giving CPH life this summer.
The big numbers: Copenhagen is still one of the world’s great green cities, ranking second in the world for sustainability (with 75 percent of positive responses), walkability (86 percent), and ease of getting around by bike (97 percent). —Alex Hayward
Recent Adventures
If “Adventures” and “Excitements”; Have all the real avenues of surprises, unexpected imagination, and dreams of exploring the world of adventure and sporting?
