10 of the Most Beautiful Cities in the World to Visit in Your Lifetime

More than 10,000 cities make up this colorful world, with each bringing its distinct character and charm. Some are centuries old and boast exquisite craftsmanship of ancient artisans—they’re still thriving today, thanks to the dedication of contemporary residents seeking to preserve their hometown history by maintaining landmarks, beautiful museums and historic hotels. Others are more youthful in spirit, with communities bringing new ways of living—from how we design to how we dine to the technologies we use—to the forefront. And then there are the countless cities featuring some of the most beautiful gardens in the world.

Narrowing down a list of the world’s most beautiful cities feels nearly impossible, as each one brings something unique to the table. For our guide we’ve selected culture centers that celebrate the past through the preservation of art and architecture while inviting younger creatives and thinkers to experiment and redefine urban identity. From an ancient Greek city steeped in culture and history to a hip burgeoning arts city hidden in the mountains of Thailand, here is our guide to the 10 most beautiful cities around the world to visit.