Time Out magazine (UK) announced its Best Cities 2026 list on 12/3, featuring 50 cities worldwide deemed "the most exciting places to live and explore". The ranking is based on a survey of over 24,000 residents across 150 global cities, along with input from more than 100 local experts and journalists.

Hanoi secured the 25th position, described as an "amazing blend of old and new" that is undergoing a remarkable transformation. While backpackers still enjoy street-side "bia hoi", a new generation of young Vietnamese entrepreneurs is establishing a sophisticated bar culture, with some venues even making it onto the Asia's 50 Best list.

80% of Hanoi residents consider the city ideal for enjoying coffee, and 73% recommend experiencing Hanoi's vibrant culinary scene.

Train Street, a popular destination for tourists in Hanoi. *Photo: Tripadvisor*

Ho Chi Minh City claimed the 38th spot, a place Time Out dubbed "The city that never sleeps". Observing any intersection clearly shows the city's constant motion. A significant 75% of Ho Chi Minh City's population reported feeling happy living there.

In 2026, a new wave of creativity is shaping the identity of this dynamic metropolis. In late 2025, UNESCO recognized Ho Chi Minh City as a "Creative City of Film", making it the first city in Southeast Asia to receive this distinction. In the culinary world, young chefs are crafting their own narratives, with an increasing number of restaurants earning a spot on the Michelin list.

Most residents in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City reported finding it easy to make friends in their respective cities.

Ho Chi Minh City is recognized as a dynamic city. *Photo: Time Out*

Melbourne, Australia, secured the top 1 position on the list. Beyond being a hub for major sporting events such as the Australian Open, Australian Grand Prix, AFL Grand Final, and Boxing Day Test, the city also stands out for its vibrant culinary scene. Many are willing to queue for over one hour for a "legendary" burger or choose historic restaurants to celebrate special occasions. Melbourne's most impressive neighborhoods bustle with activity, from cinemas and rooftop bars to vinyl record stores and art galleries.

Other cities featured in the top 10 include: Shanghai (China), Edinburgh (Scotland), London (UK), New York (US), Cape Town (South Africa), Mexico City (Mexico), Bangkok (Thailand), Seoul (South Korea), and Tokyo (Japan).

Time Out's annual Best Cities ranking is compiled from surveys of urban residents across the globe. The poll not only reveals what people appreciate about their cities, such as food, nightlife, shops, museums, parks, or the local populace, but also delves into factors like happiness levels, cost of living, and overall quality of life, among other criteria. Each featured destination offers at least one compelling reason for travelers to visit immediately.

In its 10th year, the Time Out ranking explored deeper into the daily lives of local residents, expanding its survey to include aspects such as love, romance, and community cohesion. The Best Cities list highlights destinations that offer the optimal combination: numerous exciting reasons to visit, alongside elements that evoke a sense of home.

By Tam Anh (according to Time Out)