Florence has topped the charts as Europe’s premier city in Travel + Leisure’s 2025 World’s Best Awards, thanks to a reader-voted survey that showcases the most beloved travel destinations. Ranking 11th overall globally, Florence stood out as the highest-rated European city, trumped only by San Miguel de Allende in Mexico, which secured the top spot. Followed closely by Oaxaca and Tokyo, this year’s rankings reveal a strong presence of Latin American and Asian cities in the upper echelons, while several European contenders still resonated with readers for their unique blend of history, culture, and culinary delights.
The awards were determined based on nearly 180,000 reader responses, evaluating cities across six distinct categories: sights and landmarks, culture, food, friendliness, shopping, and value. Notably, Italy was the only European nation featuring three cities in the top 25, with Florence at 11, Rome at 18, and Siena at 23. Each city received accolades for their historic charm, exceptional cuisine, and vibrant local life, captured through centuries-old architecture and bustling streets. This recognition is consistent with recent tourism data indicating Italy as the fourth most-visited country worldwide, attracting over 71 million international travelers in 2024.
Florence continues to captivate visitors with its intimate ambiance, unrivaled art collections, and sun-drenched piazzas. The city is home to artistic masterpieces, such as Botticelli’s works in the Uffizi Gallery and the stunning terracotta dome of Florence Cathedral. The presence of rustic, family-owned restaurants enhances the enchanting atmosphere and culinary experience. Conversely, Rome offers a unique tapestry of living history where ancient ruins coexist with modern life, providing visitors with an extraordinary metaphorical journey through time. The city is also currently gearing up for the Jubilee, an event that unites Catholics from around the world every 25 years, following the passing of Pope Francis earlier this year.
Siena, steeped in history, boasts its own charm as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1995. The 12th-century city, characterized by its medieval brick buildings and towering Gothic architecture, presents an enticing glimpse into the past. The bustling Piazza del Campo is renowned for hosting the Palio horse race biannually, adding to the city’s vibrant atmosphere. The combination of lively restuarants and historical landscapes makes Siena feel like a genuine step back in time, attracting those seeking a rich cultural experience.
Spain and Türkiye are also well represented, with Andalusian cities Seville and Granada earning commendations for their historical significance and enchanting old town vibes, ranking 12th and 13th, respectively. Seville dazzles visitors with its captivating southern Spanish essence, steeped in flamenco culture, lively nightlife, and grand architectural landmarks. In contrast, Granada, located at the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains, presents a more tranquil charm, highlighted by the breathtaking Alhambra fortress, adorned with fountains and intricate Islamic designs, while narrow alleys and traditional tapas bars offer delightful culinary experiences.
Notably absent from the list was France, the world’s most-visited nation, which welcomes over 100 million tourists annually. This omission may signify changing preferences among the predominantly American readership of the magazine, who appear to favor smaller, slower-paced cities with a sense of authenticity and value. This trend is reflective of shifting travel priorities in a post-pandemic landscape, where the allure of traditional favorites like Paris may not guarantee a top spot. Porto, Portugal, managed to secure 24th place as the final European city on the list, indicating an emerging tourism sector as travelers seek new experiences and meaningful connections in less crowded environments.
In summary, the rankings illustrate a broader trend within the travel industry, emphasizing the growing appeal of cities that balance history, culture, and culinary experiences while maintaining a sense of community and authenticity. Florence, alongside other Italian cities and select locations in Spain and Türkiye, epitomizes these qualities, inviting travelers to explore rich narratives and vibrant traditions that resonate in today’s travel landscape. Meanwhile, the surprising absence of French cities reveals a need for destinations to adapt to evolving traveler expectations in pursuit of value and authenticity in the future.
