Hong Kong has ranked 15th in the 2026 World’s Best Cities list released by British city guide Time Out, while Shanghai placed second, making it the highest-ranked city in Asia.
The annual ranking, announced on March 11, marks the 10th edition of the global survey, which evaluates cities based on both travel appeal and livability.
According to Time Out, the study expanded its scope this year to cover 150 cities worldwide, gathering responses from 24,000 residents about their experiences of living in their cities.
The results were combined with votes from more than 100 experts to identify destinations that offer both exciting travel experiences and a welcoming local atmosphere.
The top spot did not go to a European city this year but instead to Melbourne in Australia, located in the southern hemisphere.
Melbourne is known for hosting major sporting events such as the Australian Open tennis tournament, the Formula One Australian Grand Prix, Australian rules football, and cricket matches.
The city also offers a vibrant dining scene ranging from long-established eateries to trendy burger spots, alongside neighborhoods filled with independent cinemas and open-air bars.
According to the survey, 94 percent of residents praised Melbourne’s food scene, while 92 percent highlighted its arts and culture offerings. The city also ranked third in a separate poll of cities most favored by young people.
Shanghai ranked second on the list, described as a city of contrasts where historical charm blends with modern innovation. Cafes, restaurants and bars are found across its diverse neighborhoods, while travelers from more than 50 countries can now enter the city visa-free.
In the survey, 88 percent of Shanghai residents said eating out was affordable, while 90 percent felt prices for coffee and movie tickets were reasonable. Around 78 percent said they enjoyed cycling around the city.
The Scottish capital Edinburgh ranked third, recognized for its combination of historic character and contemporary energy.
With cherry blossom parks, medieval cobblestone streets and vibrant districts filled with independent boutiques and new restaurants, the city attracts visitors year-round. Its famous arts festival each August is also a major draw, and the city was highlighted as one of the most walkable in the survey.
Other cities in the top 10 include London and New York, followed by Cape Town, Mexico City, Bangkok, Seoul and Tokyo.
Hong Kong placed 15th overall, reflecting its continued status as a major global metropolis alongside other cities across Europe, Asia and the Americas.
Time Out World’s Best Cities 2026
Top 10
Melbourne
Shanghai
Edinburgh
London
New York
Cape Town
Mexico City
Bangkok
Seoul
Tokyo
11–20
Zurich
Rio de Janeiro
Copenhagen
São Paulo
Hong Kong
Krakow
Porto
Guadalajara
Madrid
Valencia
21–30
Sydney
Paris
Singapore
Marrakech
Hanoi
Bath
Bilbao
Berlin
Adelaide
Beijing
31–40
Antwerp
Chiang Mai
Naples
Amsterdam
Medellín
Lima
Vancouver
Ho Chi Minh City
Osaka
Athens
41–50
Chicago
Cairo
Buenos Aires
Vienna
Dublin
San Francisco
Lagos
Auckland
Lisbon
Bogotá
marco.lam@singtaonewscorp.com
