Cape Town has once again claimed the title of the world’s best city, topping the 2025 Telegraph Travel Awards for a remarkable seventh consecutive year. The accolade comes courtesy of over 20,000 readers of the British Telegraph newspaper, who ranked the South African city above Seville and Sydney, which placed second and third respectively.
According to The Telegraph, Cape Town’s enduring appeal lies in its “photogenic power.” With stunning landmarks like Table Mountain and its iconic cable car, as well as the bustling Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, the city continues to captivate global travellers.
This isn’t Cape Town’s only recent accolade. In January, Time Out magazine also ranked it the world’s top city, based on feedback from travel experts and tourists alike.
From African penguin colonies on Boulders Beach to wine safaris across the Cape Winelands, Cape Town offers a rich mix of experiences that blend nature, culture, and adventure. Its unique architectural style and coastal beauty further set it apart.
“We are proud, but not surprised,” said a local tourism official. “Cape Town has always been more than just a destination—it’s a feeling.”
Reflecting its growing popularity, Cape Town International Airport saw a record 10.4 million passengers in 2024.
Rounding out The Telegraph’s top ten were Tokyo in fourth, Venice in eighth, and Singapore in tenth, confirming Cape Town’s status as a perennial favourite on the global travel map.
