Top 10 Greatest Cities in the World

There are a lot of cities out there that bring something special to the table, but only a handful manage to stand out for all the right reasons. Think buzzing nightlife that goes well past midnight, golden beaches that stretch for miles, cultural scenes that keep museums packed and foodies spoiled for choice, and sports teams that ignite city-wide pride. These cities aren't just names on a map. They're places that attract millions, shape trends, and leave people dreaming about their next visit before they've even unpacked.

Which cities deserve the hype? Which ones do you think rise above the rest based on all the things that make urban life unforgettable? Cast your vote for the cities that you believe deserve the spotlight and see how your picks compare to everyone else's.

The Top Ten

London, England

London is the capital and most populous city of England and the United Kingdom. Standing on the River Thames in the southeastern part of Great Britain, London has been a major settlement for over two millennia.
It is one of the world's most important global cities, with significant influence in... read more

London is easily the best city on the planet. It beats New York hands down, every single time. The history of Britain is so diverse and stretches much further back than that of the US, and much of that fascinating culture is located in London.
London's impressive architecture includes Buckingham Palace, St. James's Palace, the Victoria Memorial, Wellington Arch, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, the Shard, and London Bridge. The list goes on. All you have to do is watch clips of the Olympics last year and acknowledge the fact that the 2012 games have been labeled the best ever. London is the only city to host the games three times.
As well as this, the world has been fascinated by the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the Royal Wedding. London is where the world lives and watches. Meanwhile, in New York...?
New York City, New York, United States

The City of New York, commonly known as New York City or simply New York, is the most populous city in the United States. It is also the most densely populated major city in the country. Located in the state of New York, it is a global hub for finance, culture, and media.

The Tube is more logical than the Subway in terms of line layout, but a 24/7 system is amazing. NYC's street grid is much easier to get around. Central Park is the greatest city park in the world. No queen or king. Ever. The people are celebrated.
Taller, more impressive buildings. Brooklyn > East End. The Statue of Liberty symbolizes freedom. In contrast, Big Ben symbolizes upper-class wealth, the Tower of London represents oppression/prison, Buckingham Palace stands for colonial rule/oppression, and Parliament signifies aristocracy/power, etc.
NYC's proximity to mountains, nature, and beaches. The Thames is gross. Younger by thousands of years and just as good, if not better, than London. Broadway is and has been the new Globe Theater. Jazz, Hip Hop, and Punk were either invented or perfected in NYC. The Sex Pistols/The Clash went to Ramones shows, not the other way around. Fewer annoying tabloids in NYC.
Paris, France

Paris is the capital and most populous city of France, covering an area of 105 square kilometers with an estimated population of 2,140,526 residents as of January 1, 2019. Since the 17th century, Paris has been a major center of finance, diplomacy, commerce, fashion, science, and the arts in Europe.... read more

We have visited this absolutely terrific city five times. It is a wonderful, cultural, historical city that spans the last 25 centuries and serves as the capital of fashion, haute couture, gastronomy, and arts.
Just be careful only in some crowded touristic places with some people coming from Eastern Europe (pickpockets, Three-card Monte), Italy (rip-offs, swindle, fraud), and North Africa (drugs, counterfeit products). Always ask the French tourist information for the best advice.
But anyway, it is a dream like the USA.

The most beautiful, clean, trendiest, and cosmopolitan city in the world is Paris, France. It boasts an awesome nightlife and is home to the world's best museum, the Louvre, which holds the world's most famous painting, the Mona Lisa. Did I mention that Paris is the third most visited city in the world? Of course, I didn't. France also holds the title for being the most visited country in the world.
More things worth mentioning include the Eiffel Tower, probably one of the most famous landmarks in the world, and the fact that the Louvre is the most visited museum globally. Also, keep in mind that Paris is one of the best shopping destinations in the world. The Champs-Élysées is considered one of the most famous and best streets in the world.
Paris is also one of the few places outside the U.S. to have a Disney park, Disneyland Paris. If you are a more modern and contemporary person or interested in becoming a businessman, La Défense is the most prominent business center in Europe. Take that, Potsdamer Platz! Sure, we might not be the "friendliest" city in the world, but unlike most other cities on this list, we don't judge you based on your sexual orientation.
Say what you want about France or Paris, but we're awesome! France has many overseas territories and sparked one of the most famous and important revolutions in the world. We're also the biggest country in the EU and a founding member, as well as a permanent member of the EU Security Council.
Why am I rambling on about how great France is on a list about cities? In summation, Paris is the greatest city in the world, and France is one of the greatest countries. Your move, NY and London.
Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo, officially Tokyo Metropolis, is one of the 47 prefectures of Japan and has served as the Japanese capital since 1869. Located at the head of Tokyo Bay, it is part of the Kantō region on the central Pacific coast of Honshu, Japan's main island.... read more

I've never lived in any of these top cities, but I have visited all of them. Unlike in New York or London, or even in my home city of Christchurch, New Zealand, I felt completely safe walking around the streets at night in Tokyo. In fact, Tokyo has been ranked the safest city in the world with incredibly low crime rates. Everybody is so friendly, even though Tokyo was the place where I was most obviously a foreigner (and barely spoke the language).
The transport system is impeccable (rush hour is much the same), with the trains running nearly exactly to schedule all the time. Historically, it beats London (New York doesn't even hold a candle to either), with a much richer historical background in the surrounding areas and a longer history, although Kyoto is again better for this.
During my month's stay in Tokyo, I only once saw rubbish in public, and it was in a little-used stairway at the back of a small station. Tokyo is far cleaner than either New York or London. Even the number of homeless people is far less in Tokyo than in the other major cities I've visited. Anyone who argues for New York or London over Tokyo has clearly not stepped foot in Tokyo.
Los Angeles, California, United States

Los Angeles, officially the City of Los Angeles and often abbreviated as L.A., is the largest city in California. It has an estimated population of nearly 4 million and is the second-largest city in the United States after New York City. It is also the third-largest in North America after Mexico City... read more

It has reigned as the motion picture and entertainment capital for a long time. Also, it is very diverse in its people, things to do, and culture. For years, there were not many skyscrapers because of earthquake threats, but now there are tall buildings across LA.

Hollywood, Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach, Beverly Hills, and multiple theme parks - all these places are in and around Los Angeles. Not only is there a lot to do, but there is also much to see. You can go to the Griffith Observatory and catch amazing views of the city free of charge. You can also head to the Getty Center to see a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and a beautiful garden. Do you feel like seeing a different type of sight? Muscle Beach will give you a view of some amazing beach bodies.
Walk down the Hollywood Walk of Fame and get a picture with the star of your favorite star. Or perhaps you would like to visit the TCL Chinese Theater and look for the foot and handprints in the cement. Take a joy ride in one of the supercars that are being rented on the walk. Or maybe you are feeling tired of walking but still feel like sightseeing. Hop on a tour bus and take a tour of L.A. to see some of the homes of your favorite stars. At the end of the tour, the bus will take you up to the Hollywood sign.
That isn't the only way to head up to the sign. You can hike up to it, and it's free! Feel like seeing snow but not feeling cold? Just look towards the mountains while enjoying the amazing California weather.
Fun surrounds this city. Universal Studios is in the city for some movie fun. A couple of minutes down the road in Anaheim is the happiest place on earth, Disneyland. Want some thrills? Head a few minutes up to Valencia to the thrill capital of the world, Six Flags Magic Mountain.
But L.A. isn't afraid to show its bad side either. Being titled the gang capital of America and with Compton being right next door, L.A. is both beautiful and ugly.
Sydney, Australia

Sydney, located on Australia's southeastern coast, is famous for its iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge. The city's scenic waterfront offers sailing, ferry rides, and harborside dining. Bondi Beach is renowned for its surf culture and laid-back atmosphere.... read more

I have lived in Sydney for more than 5 years, and it is a paradise on earth. The culture is vibrant, the locals are beautiful, and the beaches are the best. You can enjoy the most diverse cuisine from any country in Sydney. What strikes me the most about this city is its harmony with nature, but it never ceases to amaze me.
Another thing that makes Sydney wonderful is that it is dynamic and peaceful at the same time. The long strolls on the sand, enjoying the sunset, inspire my life. Another plus is the safety and well-being, with the healthcare system being one of the best in the world, which is an important factor to consider, right?
Chicago, Illinois, United States

Chicago, officially the City of Chicago, is the third-most populous city in the United States. With over 2.7 million residents, it is the most populous city in both Illinois and the Midwestern United States. It is considered one of the most important business centers in the world.... read more

Chicago is easily the most affordable city to live in on this top ten list. It boasts amazing architecture and food and has the perfect mixture of greenspace among the built environment. Chicago is simultaneously a slow and fast city, and few cities have more museums covering the sciences, humanities, and culture. The city is rich in museums and art institutes.
The city also has amazing neighborhoods and is relatively easy to travel around. Chicago is the world's best-kept urban secret.

I'm very glad to see Chicago in the top ten, where it should be. Chicago has something for everyone!
Want to go shopping? Magnificent Mile.
Want to see artwork? Art Institute of Chicago.
Want to go to the beach? 28 miles of lakefront beaches.
You want it, Chicago's got it.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai is the largest and most populous city in the United Arab Emirates. Established in the 18th century as a small fishing village, the city grew rapidly in the early 21st century into a cosmopolitan metropolis focused on tourism and hospitality. Dubai is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations... read more

I live in Dubai and trust me, this city is luxurious, clean, and incredibly safe. I can leave my phone and valuables just to go to the bathroom and find them exactly where I left them. It is also incredibly diverse. I can find just about every nationality here.
Not only is Dubai full of luxury and cleanliness, but it also offers several fascinating experiences. It has many landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Frame and is filled with culture. You can visit many areas that feature traditional clothing, Arabic coffee, camel statues, and more. Such an amazing city. You must visit it before you die, so put it on your bucket list.

Dubai, home of the world's tallest free-standing building, the Burj Khalifa, is one of the most expensive cities. Not only does it boast the world's tallest building, but the city also has another world wonder: the world's largest shopping mall, The Dubai Mall.
This mall features an indoor amusement park akin to Six Flags and has an extremely large and cool aquarium capable of housing whale sharks. In my opinion, the city is probably the best. It has air-conditioned bus stops, one of the world's busiest airports, and is home to one of the largest economic growths.
Rome, Italy

Rome is the capital city and most populated comune of Italy, and it serves as the capital of the Lazio region. The city has been a major human settlement for over three millennia and is one of the oldest continuously occupied cities in Europe..... read more

Rome has a lot of issues, as all cities do, but what Rome has over the others is that it is unique. The history, the culture, and the cuisine are iconic.
Many of the other cities on this list will rise and fall. Their architecture is a dime a dozen. But there's only one Rome, and Rome is eternal.

Walking in the narrow streets of the Eternal City is always amazing. You can breathe a unique atmosphere, a mix of traditions between the past and present, but no future! Time seems locked in the next 100-200 years.
Other capitals will change and so many times their skylines, but Rome will always remain the same. That's the beauty of it.
Berlin, Germany

Berlin is the capital and largest city of Germany by both area and population. It has about 3.8 million residents within its city limits, making it the most populous city in the European Union.
Berlin is a federal state of Germany and is surrounded by the State of Brandenburg. It lies adjacent... read more

This city is the city in the world with the most historical events of all time. It has a wonderful skyline, and the people are very nice and serious, but they are also really wise and know everything about their history. The Olympic Stadium with its 75,000 seats is also worth visiting.
Paris and London are nothing when you want to experience great things!

Berlin is by far the best city in the world to live in. This city is very rich, if not the richest. There are so many attractions to see. I was often there.
I must say it is the cleanest, most beautiful, and greatest place and city to live in. Berlin must be in first or second place. And by the way, London is never as good as Berlin or New York! Berlin, the CITY OF GODS!

The Newcomers

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Oxford, United Kingdom
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Cupertino, California, United States

The Contenders

Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul, formerly known as Byzantium and Constantinople, is the most populous city in Turkey and serves as the country's economic, cultural, and historical center. The city straddles the Bosphorus Strait, placing it in both Europe and Asia.... read more

Napoleon once said, "If the earth was only one state, then Istanbul would be its capital." Formerly known as Constantinople, it was the fall of this great city to the Ottoman Empire that fostered the Europeans' interest in discovering America. Arguably, it is for that reason alone that this city should be recognized as the greatest city to have ever existed in history.
If there was never a motive to discover America, then the most powerful nation of the modern world, the United States of America, would cease to exist. For that matter, Istanbul should be ranked higher than NYC. It is the only city in the world that spans two continents, and its strategically economical position lies between a strait and an artificially, yet well-crafted, isthmus-bridge.
Hong Kong, China

Hong Kong, officially the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China, is an autonomous territory located on the eastern side of the Pearl River estuary in East Asia. It covers approximately 1,050 square kilometers, or 405 square miles, and is entirely urbanized. As of 2025... read more

My hometown deserves to be the best city ever. It has culture, history, food, and transportation. Everything is excellent. And most importantly, the people are extraordinarily polite. As you know, Hong Kong is a bustling city. During working hours, MTR stations and bus stops are filled with tons of people.
Nevertheless, I was never pushed by anyone, and everybody was queuing. Unlike in mainland China, where, when the train departs, I was once caught in the arms of someone pushing me away. That's the difference between the qualities of Hong Kong people and people from mainland China. I'm not trying to be offensive but am only speaking the truth.

I am surprised at how low down this list Hong Kong is. It's the safest city I've ever been to. It just feels safe as houses.
The people are great, it's buzzing and alive, and wow, I love it. I don't have a particular order for the top five, but they would be London, Hong Kong, New York, Buenos Aires, and maybe Mexico City, all for really different reasons. London is probably number one, but Hong Kong is not far behind.
Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Toronto is the most populous city in Canada, the provincial capital of Ontario, and the core of the Greater Toronto Area, the country's most populous metropolitan region. It is an international hub for business, finance, arts, and culture. Toronto is also recognized as one of the most multicultural and... read more

I may be a little biased because I live in Toronto, but I've been to both Toronto and New York City. I think that both cities are quite similar. New York City has Times Square, and Toronto has Dundas Square. I think that Toronto is a better city because New York City is an island and has limited space, so it will not develop much more.
Meanwhile, Toronto is a huge city that is still developing and has plenty of space. Comparing the events, things nearby, and prices of both cities, Toronto is much more affordable compared to New York City. So overall, I think that Toronto is a much better city.

Toronto, for such a young city, is definitely a city with culture. There are people from all over the world. There are a bunch of different scenes, and yet it still feels in some ways like a nice small town despite it being HUGE.
Not New York huge, but very big in its own right. There is something to do every day, tons of job opportunities, and all kinds of different neighborhoods. If you're the kind of person who wants it all, Toronto is your city, trust me. It's very much a city for everyone. No matter who you are, you will find your people.
Mumbai, India

Mumbai is the capital city of the Indian state of Maharashtra. It lies on the Konkan coast on India's west coast and has a deep natural harbour. In 2008, Mumbai was named an alpha world city.
It has the highest number of millionaires and billionaires of any city in India and ranks among the top... read more

Mumbai is by far one of the most influential cities in the world, both culturally and financially. Apart from being home to Bollywood and boasting a rapidly changing skyline, its increasing popularity as an economic hub and a tourist attraction has led to plenty of foreign investment. Quite easily the best city in India, it is also the safest Indian city. With improving infrastructure, it will soon join the likes of London, Tokyo, and New York as one of the finest cities in the world.

Mumbai, the financial capital of India, is a future international economic hub. The city is propelling India forward economically, with many large multinational corporations choosing to set up their base here rather than in Bangalore and New Delhi. Both of these cities used to be nice places, but they have declined because the people do not share the same business mentality and compassion as those in Mumbai. There's no bias in my opinion. I have lived in Bangalore for six years and currently reside in Delhi. However, I would like to move to Mumbai and live there.
The city's infrastructure is undergoing significant improvements. With the new international terminal set to be one of the world's best, enhanced road connectivity, an extensive existing local railway network, an upcoming mass transit system and monorail, two outer ring roads, and five new sea-links - apart from the existing one that has raised the benchmark of Indian infrastructure - Mumbai's infrastructure is on track to become world-class.
Mumbai is also becoming greener with the makeover of the Mumbai Zoo to meet world standards, the plantation campaigns for mangroves, the planting of trees along every footpath, and the development of new parks and gardens in former slum areas like Dharavi.
Home to major multinational corporations such as Morgan Stanley, Citibank, L'Oreal, Volkswagen, Renault, McDonald's, Starbucks, and Mercedes, which have set up their Indian headquarters here, and Indian giants like Reliance, Tata, Birla, Godrej, State Bank of India, Times of India, and Lodha, the city is already an economic force to reckon with.... read more
Shanghai, China

Shanghai is one of the four municipalities governed directly by China's central government. It is the most populous city in China and the second most populous city proper in the world. As of 2019, it had a population of 24.28 million, making it the most populous urban area in China and the largest city... read more

There is no place quite as grand as the Bund, Shanghai, where you can be in the center, backed by six-hundred-year-old traditional Chinese architecture, surrounded by various buildings from various countries with different styles, and modern skyscrapers. It is a place with a comprehensive extent of inclusive spirit, where the fusion of the primary cultures of the East and the West takes place.
It is also a place that moderately shows its elegance and beauty, one with infinite possibilities and generosity. This place is named Shanghai, the only one in the world.

Dude, I am living in Dubai, but I am from Shanghai. I swear, the whole of Shanghai is a city, but Dubai is just about one-fifth city. The rest is desert. They just have the biggest shopping mall and Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab.
They don't have any culture. Everything they have is just put into money. Not like Shanghai, where you can travel through the city from traditional to modern. I think you have never been to Shanghai before. They have about 15 subway lines and around two thousand buses. Compared to Shanghai, Dubai is horrible!
Honolulu, Hawaii, United States

Honolulu is the capital and largest city of the U.S. state of Hawaiʻi. It is an unincorporated part of, and the county seat of, the City and County of Honolulu, located along the southeastern coast of the island of Oʻahu. The city is a key hub for international business, military defense, and tourism... read more

All of the other cities on the list are here only because they are large and famous, not because anyone would actually want to live in them.
For example, apparently, Moscow is better than Honolulu according to this list, but who would ever want to live in Moscow? It is cold, flat, and crime-ridden. Also, Shanghai? Why would anyone want to live there? It is one of the most polluted cities on Earth.
Honolulu is the best city because it is the most desirable place to live. Of all these cities, Honolulu has the best beaches, the best mountains, the best weather, the best scuba diving, and the best surfing.
Melbourne, Australia

Better than New York - it is greener, the people are kinder, it has a better architectural style, more parks, a more modern skyline, better places around, a nicer landscape, beautiful beaches, amazing culture, and awesome shops. Very safe too.

Why is Melbourne ranked lower than Sydney, Wagga Wagga, Brisbane, and Newcastle? It's the top city in Australia. Hell, it's the best in the world along with Vienna (Vienna should be way higher than 70. It was voted the most liveable city along with Melbourne).
Melbourne is the sporting capital of the world. Enough said.
Moscow, Russia

Moscow is the capital and most populous city of Russia. It is located in western Russia along the Moskva River. Moscow is a major political, economic, and cultural center and is home to the Kremlin, Red Square, and numerous historic landmarks.

I've been to more than 60 countries and lived in nine, including cities from the top of your list. Moscow beats many of them in almost every way. And yet, due to the Russophobic agenda of the mainstream Western media, most people remain misinformed about Russia and its stunning capital.
Moscow is an absolute class city with a rich culture and history, yet it is modern and vibrant. It's insanely beautiful! The quality of life is very high, it's safe (much safer than NYC), and very convenient to live in.

Moscow is definitely in the top 10. Nowadays, it boasts more supertalls (greater than 300m - 7) than any other city. The city, with its 10 motorways, is alive 24 hours a day, and everything is constantly in motion.
Additionally, the huge cultural scene and restaurants are among the best in the world. As a strong geopolitical and financial center of Eastern Europe and Middle Asia, it must be ranked 6th after New York, London, Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Singapore.
Singapore

Singapore should be first. It's almost Utopian. No scruffy people trying to cheat you, and the crime rate is zero. All the buildings, sidewalks, roads, etc., look brand new and futuristic. People are very nice.
There's no traffic because cars are very expensive, but it's a small city, so just use the trains and taxis, which are very cheap. It's not crowded either, and the sights and air quality are great. There are lots of things to do as well. It's heaven on earth.

Best city in the world! The airport is a hub for air travel. It's a city-state with lots of trade and a port. It's iconic skyscrapers, like the hotel near the Ferris wheel, and the many different cultures there are in a small area.
Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a city in Spain. It is the capital and largest city of the autonomous community of Catalonia, as well as the second most populous municipality in Spain. The city is known for its architecture, especially the works of Antoni Gaudí, including the Sagrada Família.

There's no doubt Barcelona is one of the most amazing cities in the world. It is the most beautiful city in the Mediterranean region. A perfect mix between history and modernity, its old town is stunning.
The architecture, especially Gaudi's buildings, is unique in the world. There's excellent food and a lot of places to have a drink. You can enjoy its sunny days throughout the year and go to the beach. Just a few cities can compare with Barcelona.

The architecture of Gaudí is completely unique, and Barcelona is a versatile place where you can enjoy the good weather to practice sports, visit art galleries, any kind of museum, or learn about history through the many influences this place has received. Another advantage is its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea, allowing you to enjoy the area throughout the year. Additionally, there is a large amusement park in Tarragona, just a one-and-a-half-hour car ride from the city, which will soon become the biggest in Europe.
The only thing you may not like are the prices of some places to visit, although they are not as expensive as in some popular cities like Paris. If you ever go there, remember that Gaudí was a vegetarian, and he wouldn't appreciate seeing souvenirs made from "trencadis" bullfighting remnants. While there are no bullfights in Barcelona or Catalonia, it is not the same in the rest of Spain.
Washington D.C., United States

Washington D.C. is great. It isn't too crowded like New York or Los Angeles and has amazing monuments and luxury.

Located on Maryland's soil, it truly is a significant city and the capital.

Power and influence. Very beautiful scenery.
Bangalore, India

Bangalore is the Silicon Valley of India. Its IIT and educational programs are famous. Its culture, architecture, food, heritage, and richness are also world-famous. The temperature is suitable for anyone. Bangalore can beat Sydney in a few years if the government works hard. But still, Bangalore is a globally famous city that deserves a top 10 rank.

Bangalore, now a beta city, is surely going to race other cities in the world because of its greatness in the IT sector and because of its infrastructure. The density of Bangalore is growing like hell, and very soon, it is going to overtake other cities.
Miami, Florida, United States

Miami, officially known as the City of Miami, is the cultural, economic, and financial center of South Florida. It is the county seat of Miami-Dade County, which is the most populous county in Florida. The city is a major hub for international trade, tourism, and finance.

Miami should be in FIRST place! It has the best beaches in the US by far, with warm turquoise waters and vibrant beaches. It also boasts the most beautiful looking people in the US. There's a plethora of activities to enjoy in Miami, from festivals, clubs, and restaurants to bars, concerts, games, museums, and parks - the list is extensive.
Not to mention, many famous people live in Miami as well. Plus, did you know that Miami, Florida, grows exotic things such as mangoes and coconuts, some of which don't grow anywhere else in the continental US? Sure, it may occasionally get hurricanes, but what place doesn't have some sort of natural disaster or bad weather? At least with hurricanes, you get a warning in advance, allowing you to prepare.
Earthquakes, which don't happen in Miami, can strike without warning. And don't get me started on months of cold and snow, or even blizzards! You definitely don't have to worry about these in Miami. Almost forgot to mention, wildfires and mudslides also don't occur in Miami, but they do in or near other places. Plus, Miami is an international city.
So there you have it. Oh, and I could continue, but I'll leave it by saying that Miami, Florida, should totally be in 1st place, hands down!
San Francisco, California, United States

San Francisco, officially the City and County of San Francisco, is the cultural, commercial, and financial center of Northern California. It is known for landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and its historic cable car system. The city has a diverse population and is a major hub... read more

I love San Francisco. It's very vibrant and exciting. The culture is very diverse, which means you can always be yourself. No matter how weird and crazy you are, you'll never be a misfit here. There's no wonder why San Francisco is as well known and regarded as cities ten times its size. Anywhere you go in the world, they know the city. Our reputation precedes us. If New York is the pot of coffee and London is a cup of coffee, then San Francisco is a triple shot of espresso.

This city has everything, whether great or ugly. Together, combined, it washes out. Overall, a great city due to its cosmopolitan aesthetic.
Seattle, Washington, United States

Seattle is a seaport city on the West Coast of the United States. It is the seat of King County, Washington. The city is known for its tech industry, including Seattle-based Amazon and nearby Microsoft, and for landmarks such as the Space Needle and Pike Place Market.

Though the height of its skyline may keep it out of the top tier, the buildings comprising it are architecturally diverse and distinguishable, such as the Space Needle, Smith Tower, Columbia Center, etc. The cityscape is nestled between the hills and Puget Sound, with Mount Rainier as a backdrop. It has become the Pacific Northwest's largest tech hub, rivaling Silicon Valley for the best on the West Coast. It's the city where Amazon and Starbucks began, with Microsoft just across the water.
The city is full of artistic and musical expression. There are museums and performance halls all over the city. Seattle is also home to the University of Washington. Go Dawgs! Pike Place Market is nearly as iconic as the Space Needle, and the addition of the Great Wheel spices up the pier. Despite years of mediocrity, sports in Seattle appear to finally be on the rise as well. Overall, Seattle seems to have the right balance of city life, nature, and art.