Luxury travel authority Condé Nast Traveler just revealed its list of the Best Cities in the World for 2025. This year’s Readers’ Choice Awards—now in its 38th edition—collected an impressive 757,109 votes from globe-trotting readers. Split between small cities and big cities, the results are a mix of iconic metropolises and small-but-mighty gems worth adding to your upcoming travel calendar. North America is well-represented, but while a separate list highlights the Best Cities in the U.S., none were deemed best in the world.
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Taking the top spot among small cities is Victoria, the capital of British Columbia and a favorite day trip from Vancouver that clearly deserves more than a few hours. Readers praised its postcard-perfect harbor views, lush gardens and old-world British charm. The Fairmont Empress—one of Canada’s grandest hotels—anchors the waterfront, serving up luxury suites and access to a private lounge overlooking the Inner Harbour. Whether you're sipping from fine china at The Empress’ famed afternoon tea or trekking around Vancouver Island's rugged forests, Victoria has it all.
Mexico’s Puerto Vallarta and San Miguel de Allende also made the small cities list, coming in at number two and number five, respectively.
Among the big cities, Tokyo reigned supreme, but two Canadian standouts cracked the top ten: Vancouver (number seven) and Montreal (number nine).
Vancouver’s secret is balance. Here you can ski, kayak and eat Michelin-worthy food in the same day. The city’s creative energy spills from its art galleries into its kitchens, where chefs at spots like Vij’s, Savio Volpe and Bao Bei are rewriting Canada’s culinary story.
Montreal, on the other hand, thrives on contrast. Its Old Port feels plucked from a European postcard, yet its contemporary art scene and nightlife pulse with bold, experimental flair. From the refined chaos of Joe Beef to the indulgent comfort of Au Pied de Cochon, this city knows how to feed both your stomach and your curiosity.
So, while Condé Nast Traveler’s world list spans from Italy to South Africa, it’s clear North America’s mix of elegance, edge and natural beauty still ranks among the world’s best.