Tokyo Has Been Named The #1 City Of The Year

Whether you’re trying to squeeze in one last trip before Christmas, or already planning your travel for next year, there’s no shortage of incredible cities to put on your bucket list. But if you want the best of the best, look no further than Tokyo, which was just named the world’s best big city in Condé Nast Traveler‘s Readers’ Choice Awards.

The awards surveyed 600,000 people to find out which destinations they loved the most in 2019. Tokyo was voted the Best Big City, in a competitive list that included our very own Sydney 🇦🇺

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Three Japanese cities made the top 10 list, but Tokyo topped it off thanks to its thrilling mix of neon skyscrapers and tranquil temples. It’s a city where unmatchable street style meets centuries-old etiquette, with Traveler describing it as a “fever dream you don’t want to wake up from”.

 

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It was also praised for its food scene. Inventive ramen offerings and Japanese whisky makes Tokyo one of the world’s best food destinations, which isn’t surprising when you remember that the Japanese capital city has more Michelin stars than any other place on earth.

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Coming in hot at number 10, Sydney was described as “an ideal getaway no matter the season” and was praised for its rock pools, beaches, and vibrant arts scene. Surry Hills, Manly and Paddington all got special shout outs for their food, culture and general good vibes.

 

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The complete list featured cities that are beloved for food, wine, architecture and art. Some of the finalists are cities that travellers keep coming back to, while others are slightly less-touristy – but equally awe-inspiring.

Traveler also released a list of the Best Small Cities. Aus didn’t make the cut, but Mérida, Mexico came in at number one, followed by many European getaways.

Check out the top 10 best cities below and see the full listing at Condé Nast Traveler.

Best Big Cities

1. Tokyo, Japan
2. Kyoto, Japan
3. Singapore
4. Vienna, Austria
5. Osaka, Japan
6. Copenhagen, Denmark
7. Amsterdam, Netherlands
8. Barcelona, Spain
9. Taipei, Taiwan
10. Sydney, Australia

Best Small Cities

1. Mérida, Mexico
2. Dresden, Germany
3. Québec City, Canada
4. Salzburg, Austria
5. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
6. Bergen, Norway
7. Florence, Italy
8. Puebla, Mexico
9. Monte Carlo, Monaco
10. Cologne, Germany

(Lead image: Louie Martinez / Unsplash)