Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards 2025: Top Cities and Destinations Revealed

Top US City: Santa Fe, New Mexico

• 🏆 Santa Fe, New Mexico was crowned the best city in the US by Travel + Leisure readers, ending Charleston's 12-year streak.
• ⛰️ The city offers a blend of outdoor adventure, including hiking and biking in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, with a vibrant art scene, boasting the third-largest art market in the US.
• 🎨 Visitors can explore galleries on Canyon Road and enjoy Southwestern cuisine.

Best International City: San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

• 🇲🇽 San Miguel de Allende, Mexico earned the top spot for international destinations, known for its Spanish colonial architecture and vibrant art scene.
• 🌍 This UNESCO protected site offers attractions like wineries, thermal springs, and hot air balloon rides.
• 🛍️ The city also features great markets, supporting local artists and businesses, and offers unique shopping opportunities.

Top European Destination: Florence, Italy

• 🇮🇹 Florence, Italy was voted the best city in Europe, celebrated for its cobblestone streets, art, and galleries.
• 🍷 The region offers access to the Tuscan countryside, historic castles, and towns.
• 🥩 A highlight mentioned is the Bistecca alla Fiorentina.

Best Greek Island: Paros

• 🏝️ Paros, Greece was recognized as the best island, offering a more laidback and slower pace of life compared to Mykonos or Santorini.
• 🏘️ It features beautiful fishing villages, shopping, and art, retaining an old-school Greek vibe.
• 🏖️ The island also provides a desirable beach experience.

Travel Trends

• 🗺️ Readers are increasingly seeking destinations that offer a blend of art, heritage, and culture, wanting to learn and travel deeper.
• 🍽️ There's also a strong desire for great food and the opportunity to support local artists and businesses through shopping for unique items.