Time Out’s latest list reveals the top cities to visit in 2025, with NYC coming in third behind Cape Town and Bangkok

New York: Time Out just dropped its list of the 50 best cities to visit in 2025, and guess what? NYC snagged third place! Cape Town took the top spot, followed by Bangkok.
They surveyed over 18,500 folks worldwide, asking about everything from food and nightlife to culture and happiness. It’s all about how people feel about their cities.
Even though 78% of New Yorkers think their city is super exciting, it wasn’t enough to claim the number one spot. But hey, it’s still the highest-ranked city in the U.S.!
So, here’s the scoop on the top three: Cape Town is all about happiness, with 97% of locals feeling good about their city. Bangkok is rocking it too, especially with its cool Ekkamai neighborhood.
And then there’s New York, with a killer arts scene and a lot of excitement. Melbourne, London, and New Orleans also made the cut, showing off their unique vibes.
It’s interesting to see how these cities stack up. Each one has its charm, and it’s clear that people love where they live. So, if you’re planning a trip, these spots are definitely worth checking out!