2026 brings new trends in choosing the best cities to live and travel. Find out who made it into the TOP 10 global leaders this year
Electronic road vignette for traveling in Europe
The analytical company Resonance Consultancy has presented a new ranking of the World’s Best Cities 2026, which identifies the hundred best cities in the world. The study included 270 megacities, which were evaluated according to 34 criteria: from the level of economic development, culture and education to tourist attractiveness, safety and convenience for life.
This year, London once again confirmed its status as a global leader, having topped the rating for the 11th year in a row. However, there are several unexpected changes in the top ten, which demonstrate how modern megacities are changing in response to the challenges of the world.
We will tell you about the best cities in the world, both for tourists and for expats, in this article.
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London, UK – The World’s Best City
The UK capital has once again been named the world’s best city. London leads the rankings thanks to its combination of high quality of life, business opportunities and cultural diversity. The city took first places in three key subcategories – prosperity, attractiveness and comfort.
London has quickly regained its position after the pandemic: in 2024, international tourists spent almost $22 billion here, making it the world’s leading tourist destination. Major infrastructure upgrades, the expansion of the Elizabeth Line and the creation of new public spaces such as the Camden Highline are making London even more convenient for residents and visitors. It is a city where history harmoniously blends with innovation, and each district has its own unique rhythm.
New York, USA – The heart of the global economy
New York, which took second place, remains a symbol of a dream come true. This is the city where business empires, creative ideas and cultural trends are born. The metropolis attracts investors and professionals from all over the world thanks to its developed economy, prestigious universities and huge market opportunities.
At the same time, New York is an endless mosaic of districts, cultures and tastes. Central Park, Broadway, Brooklyn and Times Square attract millions of tourists every year. And the city authorities invest in green infrastructure, transport development and improving the quality of life – making the metropolis not only the financial, but also the environmental capital of the USA.
Paris, France – eternal elegance and new breath
In third place is Paris, which this year became an example of how traditions can harmoniously combine with modernity. The city was actively preparing for the Olympic Games, which stimulated the renewal of the transport network, green areas and hotel infrastructure.
Paris remains a center of fashion, art and gastronomy, but at the same time it becomes an example for other capitals in matters of sustainable development. Bike paths, electric transport and numerous cultural initiatives make it comfortable for both residents and tourists. It is a city that continues to inspire the world.
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Tokyo, Japan – harmony of technology and tradition
Tokyo, which holds the fourth place, is a unique example of a city where innovation coexists with ancient customs. The Japanese capital is one of the most efficient metropolises in the world: cleanliness, order, safety and an exceptional level of service make it comfortable to live in.
The city attracts millions of tourists with its temples, parks, gastronomic culture and futuristic districts. And Tokyo’s technology companies are shaping the future of the global economy, embodying the principles of a smart city.
Madrid, Spain – the vibrant soul of Spain
In fifth place is Madrid, which this year overtook Singapore to become one of the most dynamic cities in Europe. The capital of Spain combines luxurious architecture, a warm Mediterranean climate and a vibrant cultural life.
Madrid is actively developing as the digital center of the EU, attracting startups, IT professionals and foreign investors. And for tourists, the city remains a real feast: from the Prado Museum to atmospheric squares and night bars – every day here is filled with the energy of life.
Singapore – the city-state of the future
Singapore has dropped to sixth place, but remains a benchmark for efficiency, cleanliness and high technology. The city-state continues to amaze with its architecture, green areas and sustainable development strategies.
Singapore is a place where skyscrapers grow next to gardens, and education and medicine are among the world’s top. Thanks to its thoughtful management and openness to innovation, it is a model of what a 21st century metropolis can be.
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Rome, Italy – a living open-air museum
In seventh place is Rome, which continues to be the heart of European history and culture. Its Colosseum, forums, squares and churches attract millions of tourists every year.
Despite its ancient heritage, Rome is actively investing in transport, restoration of monuments and digital services for visitors. This is a city where the past lives side by side with the present, reminding us that greatness does not fade with time.
Dubai, UAE – A Brilliance of Modernity and Innovation
Rising to eighth place, Dubai is an example of how ambition can create a miracle in the desert. It is a city of records – the tallest skyscrapers, the most luxurious hotels and the largest events in the world.
Dubai remains a magnet for business and tourism, thanks to its infrastructure, visa-free programs and status as a safe center for investors. A place where the future is coming today.
Berlin, Germany – the European capital of creativity
Berlin maintains ninth place, confirming its status as the innovative and cultural center of Europe. The city has become a haven for startups, artists and freelancers from all over the world.
Berlin is known for its freedom, openness and diversity. Environmental initiatives, a transport system and a cultural scene are actively developing here, which makes it an example of a modern metropolis with a human face.
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Barcelona, Spain – Between the Sea and Technology
Barcelona took tenth place, proving once again that it is not only a tourist paradise, but also an important center of innovation. The city is famous for its Gaudi architecture, beaches and gastronomic culture.
Barcelona is actively implementing the concept of a “smart city” – developing digital services, green spaces and emission-free transport. This combination of Mediterranean lightness and modern technologies makes it one of the most comfortable in the world.
How have the top ten cities in the world changed for 2026?
The top four in the ranking of the best cities in the world for 2026 remained unchanged – New York, Paris and Tokyo retained their positions.
At the same time, there were some permutations in the middle of the top ten. Madrid rose from seventh to fifth place, ahead of Singapore, which now occupies sixth place. Rome, on the contrary, lost one position and fell to seventh place.
Among the newcomers to the top 10 is Dubai, which rose to eighth place this year, knocking Sydney out of the top ten. Berlin retained its ninth position, while Barcelona dropped from eighth to tenth, rounding out the ranking of the world’s best cities.
The Resonance Consultancy ranking shows that in 2026, Europe remains the leader in terms of quality of life, culture and attractiveness for investment. At the same time, Asia and the Middle East are increasing the pace of development, combining innovation with tourism.
So, the best cities in the world are those that create an environment in which you want to live, work and travel. It is the balance between history, modernity and sustainable development that will determine the face of the megacities of the future.
If you plan to visit the best cities in the world in your own car, do not forget about the electronic road vignette (e-vignette) – this is an official digital document that confirms the payment of the road fee for using toll motorways in European countries. Such a permit is mandatory for all drivers traveling through the territory of states where the toll road system operates.
The e-vignette can be quickly issued online before the trip – without queues and paper documents. It is convenient, safe and allows you to avoid fines when traveling in Europe.
Apply for an electronic vignette now to travel without worries!
Reminder! The world of travel is experiencing a new wave of interest – after several years of restrictions, tourists are once again discovering Europe and exotic corners of the planet. We have already told you which places made it to the world tourist top.
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Frequantly
asked questions
Which city was recognized as the best in the world in 2026?
London has once again become the best city in the world in 2026. The capital of Great Britain has been at the top of the ranking for the 11th year in a row thanks to its combination of a high standard of living, business opportunities, cultural diversity and developed infrastructure.
Which cities are in the TOP 10 best in the world?
The top ten leaders were: London, New York, Paris, Tokyo, Madrid, Singapore, Rome, Dubai, Berlin and Barcelona.
These cities demonstrate the highest indicators in terms of living standards, innovation, cultural attractiveness and comfort for residents and tourists.
What do you need to know before traveling to European cities?
If you are planning a trip by car, be sure to apply for an electronic road vignette (e-vignette) – it confirms payment for using toll roads.
It is also worth purchasing travel insurance that will cover medical expenses, loss of luggage or other unforeseen situations during the trip.