The world is full of beautiful cities that poets write about, influencers take pictures of, and people write about. It is amazing how these cities have stood the test of time and amazed us with their beauty as we travel to see them. Here is our list of the 20 most beautiful cities in the world.
1. Hallstatt, Austria
Although not a city, Hallstatt is considered one of the most picturesque little towns in the world. On the slopes of the Alps sits a little town that settled near some salt mines. This quaint little village sits on Lake Hallstatt, and brings visitors far and wide to walk through this fairy-tale like town that has absolutely stunning views of the Austrian Alps. It brings about visitors to wander through the color filled streets and get lost in its serenity. While in Austria, Hallstatt should be a place you must go visit.
2. Porto, Portugal
Many people would think Lisbon would make this list, but Porto is on the rise with their idyllic architecture, orange tiles, gorgeous beaches nearby, and culture. Artists and creatives have been diving into Porto lately because of the stunning architecture and public art. Many others have started to notice this hidden gem in Portugal too.
3. Sydney, Australia
Sydney is a beautiful gem of Australia, sitting on a magnificent harbor with beautiful golden beaches. The city is full of activities and lush gardens, and it is clean. You can walk across the Harbour Bridge, swim at Bondi Beach, or even walk to Manly Beach.
4. Cape Town, South Africa
Down below Table Mountain, where the ocean meets, stands one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Cape Town. To many, Cape Town is the most beautiful city in the world, with its marvelous beaches, beautiful mountains in the background, and rolling hills full of vineyards and wineries nearby. Cape Town attracts many people with its picture-perfect views. It is a lovely place to add to your bucket list one day.
5. Bergen, Norway
Norway is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Bergen is the second largest city, with painted colorful rows of houses and a view of the harbor, fjords, and mountains. You must visit Bergen if you are in Norway, and the hikes from the nearby mountains will keep you busy and staring in awe of the beauty of this city.
6. Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown is the adventure capital of the world. It sits on a glacial lake, Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by incredible mountains that make this city so beautiful to visit. You can go hiking, skydiving, skiing, rafting, and see some wineries. If you are up for an adventure, Queenstown is the place to go.
7. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is a beautiful city to visit, explore, and have a beer. It is laid out with stunning architecture that makes you want to continue to stare and take pictures. The city is full of little cafes along the river near the Charles Bridge. The museums, the cafes, and many other things make Prague a wonderful city, bringing out its beauty and making it one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
8. Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto embraces the past and brings visitors and tourists from all over to history in the Japanese Imperial Capital. It has over 1600 Buddhist temples, 400 Shinto shrines, and Cherry Blossoms. Take time to explore and enjoy this beautiful city of Kyoto.
9. Barcelona, Spain
Tapas, siestas, quiet strolls around the plazas, and beautiful beaches on the Mediterranean make Barcelona a wonderful place to visit. With iconic architecture and covered markets, this city is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It boasts a Spanish relaxed lifestyle that many flock to enjoy.
10. Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Amsterdam is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with their cobble streets, bridges, and canals, the bikes going throughout the city, and its majestic architecture. With every one of their buildings lining the canal, you can see the charm and elegance of the city of Amsterdam. It is a place to visit, explore, and enjoy a reasonable amount of time.
11. Cartagena, Colombia
Sitting on the coast of the Caribbean is the most colorful city of Cartagena, Colombia. This colonial town built by the Spanish sits as a beautiful city surrounded by old city walls. The beautiful city has many attractions to bring people from far and wide to check out the Clock Tower and indulge in many of Colombia’s delectable treats.
12. Florence Italy
Italy is full of beautiful cities from Rome to Naples to Palemero. Florence brings culture, history, art, and beauty into one city. You can see the resistance flowing through the town, and one of the iconic landmarks is the Santa Maria del Fiore. Florence is hard to beat as a bustling city with so much to see.
13. Paris, France
Many people flock to the city of love for the cafes, croissants, wine, coffee, and of course, the beauty of the city of Paris. Paris had to be on this list with the streets full of monuments, the old Gothic churches that represent so much history, and the cobbled streets. This beautiful city is a place to visit and enjoy, and many people love it.
14. Rio De Janiero, Brazil
The second largest city in Brazil, Rio De Janeiro is filled with beautiful people, gorgeous beaches, and amazing-looking mountains. Beyond the beaches and the lush forests that top the scenery, Rio is known for beautiful parks, waterfalls, and caves to discover. There is so much to see and do in this beautiful city.
15. Charleston, SC
It is hard to beat one of the most charming cities in America. Charleston is a beautiful city with churches, cobblestones, and large homes along the battery. The city is full of culture, history, charm, excellent southern food, and a view of the ocean. To visit there, you will step back in time and enjoy the sights as you walk around in awe.
16. Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is like a city no other. It is full of Byzantine architecture, Ottman-era palaces, and a food scene that stretches so far. The city is full of culture and history, and it is a must-go place for those that have visited some of the best cities in the world. So take a trip and visit Istanbul.
17. Palermo, Italy
Palmero is a city full of diversity. The architecture is from Byzantine, Arab, and Norman influences. Go to Ballero Street, where you can find markets overflowing with food, drinks, and people-watching. Palermo is a unique place that ranks high as one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
18. Chefchaouen, Morocco
Chefchaouen is a quiet city located in the Rif mountains of Morocco. This 15th-century blue city attracts tourists from all over to come and visit, walk the streets, and take gorgeous pictures of all the sky-blue painted buildings. To get a great view of the city nearby, you can hike to the Grande Mosquée.
19. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest has some of the best Art Nouveau Architecture in all of Europe. From the Parliament Buildings to St. Stephen’s Cathedral, it is hard to find a place in Budapest that is not beautiful.
20. Dubrovnik, Croatia
If you are familiar with Kings Landing in The Game of Thrones, you have seen Dubrovnik. It is an old maritime walled-off city that was never conquered by the Venetians and only saw war during the 1990s. It is a beautiful city with fantastic architecture and one of the largest still intact Medieval walls, bringing even more beauty to this enchanting city.
These 15 Countries Are Perfect For a Life of Happiness and Fulfillment
In an increasingly interconnected world, the pursuit of happiness and fulfillment has become a universal aspiration. While the definition of a fulfilling life varies from person to person, some countries consistently rank as ideal destinations to achieve this dream.
These 15 Countries Are Perfect For a Life of Happiness and Fulfillment
The 10 Most Incredible Islands to Visit Around the World
Are you dreaming of an island getaway? Imagine spending your days swimming in crystal-clear waters, sunbathing on white-sand beaches, and exploring lush rainforests. Sounds too good to be true? Yes, it is! In this article, we will dive into the 10 most incredible islands to visit worldwide. These notable islands are all waiting for you to explore.
The 10 Most Incredible Islands to Visit Around the World
The 10 Most Beautiful Countries in Europe To Explore
Europe is a continent of alluring wonders; it's hard to believe it wasn't a product of intelligent design. For tourists planning to visit, the plethora of beautiful European countries can overwhelm them, and the abundance of culture, history, and jaw-dropping landscape can seem too much for even the most experienced of explorers.
The 10 Most Beautiful Countries in Europe To Explore
Cesky Krumlov: A Fairy Tale Town With 14 Must-Do Activities
Cesky Krumlov is a small but impressive Czech Republic town known for its UNESCO World Heritage status. Its medieval castle and old, cobblestone streets make it a popular day trip from Prague, as there are plenty of things to see in Cesky Krumlov.
Cesky Krumlov: A Fairy Tale Town With 14 Must-Do Activities
14 Amazing Things to do on Hvar Island That Will Make You Stay
What comes to mind when you think of Hvar Island in Croatia? Most people think of fancy hotels or well-known beaches, but there's more to it. This 70km island has small villages, green fields, and hills covered in pine trees. Hvar Town is the go-to place for lively beaches and good food, but the island also has quieter spots.
14 Amazing Things to do on Hvar Island That Will Make You Stay
I’m Steve. I’m an English Teacher, traveler, and an avid outdoorsman. If you’d like to comment, ask a question, or simply say hi, leave me a message here, on Twitter (@thefrugalexpat1). Many of my posts have been written to help those in their journey to financial independence. I am on my journey, and as I learn more I hope to share more. And as always, thanks for reading The Frugal Expat.
