One beautiful city of the world is also the capital city of the Netherlands, Amsterdam, with the looks of a storybook coming to life. Across its pretty alleyways, broadly beautiful canals, and Hanseatic streets, there is ample evidence why Van Gogh found such inspiration from his homeland’s charming capital. This is a world of civility, confidence, and culture - from the trendily handsome Nine Streets neighborhood to the artful drama of the Rijksmuseum - where you can have close encounters with the works of Rembrandt and Vermeer. A city made famous (and powerful) by European trade during its 17th-century Golden Age, Amsterdam is a true treasure box of gilded canal-side buildings, ornamental facades, and beautifully detailed churches. Its exquisite canal houses and hotels also offer much to those who have a taste for more modern design.

Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, has more than one hundred kilometers of canals winding through it, which is just one of the things that makes it a majestic place. It's also a mecca for art, culture, and fun. You’ll also find delightful tulip stands and coffee shops. Take a canal cruise early in your visit so you can get an overview of the city. Then head to the Museum District to see the Rijksmuseum with Rembrandt and Vermeer paintings and the modern Stedelijk. For natural beauty, take a picnic in the famous city park, Vondelpark, designed and opened in 1850. This is a gorgeous city park to enjoy the sunshine, hike, or take a bike ride. The open-air museum Zaanse Schans is also a great place to enjoy the country’s outdoor spaces.

Multicultural and picturesque, Cape Town, South Africa, had to be on the list of the most beautiful cities in the world. This frequently overlooked but utterly stunning city sits at the base of South Africa’s iconic Table Mountain on a peninsula surrounded by the crystal blue waters of the South Atlantic Ocean. Visitors flock there from around the world to enjoy the beautiful weather, see the fascinating sights and explore the pristine beaches. Of all the major cities in South Africa, Cape Town is what comes to mind for amazing scenic attractions. Lion’s Head is the peak of one of the surrounding mountains and is popular with hikers. It’s fairly steep and is about 3.5 miles. Visitors will need to plan about 90 minutes to get to the top.

Mountains, coastlines, beaches filled with penguins: Cape Town pretty much has it all. Each day in the Mother City will make you fall in love with some new sight, be it the king protea-filled Kirstenbosch National Botanic Gardens or the rainbow-bright row houses of Bo-Kaap. In fact, visitors can start sightseeing before their plane even lands: That first glimpse of Table Mountain from the sky makes quite the impression. Cape Town tells a different story: shadowed by the magnificent beauty of Table Mountain and its penguin-thronged beaches, the great outdoors is a vital part of daily life in this buzzing, energetic city. From the green lungs of the Kirstenbosch botanical gardens to the electrifying nightlife along the V&A Waterfront, Cape Town is one of the most dramatic and exciting urban locations in the world. And in 2014, it was tapped as a World Design Capital, demonstrating its conscientious blend of natural beauty and human creativity.

Many people consider New York City the most beautiful city in the world because of its energy, high-end shopping, theaters, and famous man-made landmarks. The Empire State Building, in midtown Manhattan, is one of the most famous buildings in the world. At 1,454 feet tall, it offers panoramic views of the city, boroughs, and up to six states. Pretty Central Park and its 843 acres of green space have attracted visitors for more than 150 years. This iconic park is in the middle of Manhattan between the Upper West and Upper East Sides. The park is filled with beautiful trees and flowers, perfect for peaceful long walks, picnics, and doing one of the self-guided tours of special sections and plantings. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is the most popular tourist destination in the city.

The New York City skyline never fails to stun, no matter how many times people see it. Skyscrapers, rivers, bridges, parks, brownstones, it really has all the making for unforgettable views everywhere you look. And looks aside, New York City has literally anything and everything a city could ever offer. New York City offers an endless variety of historical, cultural, and natural wonders, from the Statue of Liberty to Central Park to the legendary Broadway theater district. Sample some delicious pizza in Little Italy or take in panoramic views of the city in one of the many observation decks such as the Empire State or Top of the Rock buildings. Walk around Central Park or catch one of the many artsy scenes the Big Apple shows off, including MoMa and the Met. Boat trips around New York Harbor to the Statue of Liberty are another travel bucket list experience.

San Francisco on the west coast has always been considered one of the most attractive cities in the world because of the diverse neighborhoods and hilly landscape. The Golden Gate Bridge is just the beginning. San Francisco’s world-class museums and cultural institutions rival any on the planet—remarkable for a city of fewer than a million people. The adventurous spirit that made San Francisco what it is today thrives in the new restaurants, cafes, shops, and galleries sprinkled throughout what is, arguably, the most beautiful city in the U.S. San Francisco is dotted with world-famous museums and cultural institutions. And the Golden Gate Bridge is the doorway into this artsy, picturesque city.

San Francisco is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, full of world-famous tourist sites, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Fisherman's Wharf, and the sea lions at Pier 39. Explore the infamous Alcatraz or the foodie’s paradise, the Ferry Building. See the beautiful bay that lends the feeling of a laid-back beachy vibe or stroll along the Fisherman’s Wharf. No other city in the USA and few in the world are as loved by its inhabitants as the Bay City. With an abundance of attractions, such as bell-ringing cable cars, spectacular bridges, the infamous Alcatraz, the Ferry Building (a foodies paradise), and of course the sea lions at Pier 39, it’s best to explore this magnificent city on a bike.

Sydney, Australia, is also one of the most beautiful cities in the world designation because of the way natural beauty and art are combined in this modern city. Australia’s biggest city benefits from a waterfront culture, with locals hopping on ferries to commute home—or play—on Bondi, Manly, and Coogee beaches, with the dramatic Sydney Opera House, stands sentry in the harbor. The dramatic views of Sydney's harbor, made even more stunning by the single-arch steel bridge up against the famous Opera House, showcase the city's sleek architecture, and it's also a surfer's paradise as well as a hub for design and style.

As Australia’s largest city is located on the waterfront, it’s almost unfair how pretty Sydney really is. Besides the picturesque coastal paths leading to Bondi, Coogee, and Manly beaches there’s still the dramatic Sydney Opera House is the symbol of the city. Its charm is further amplified by its gorgeous leafy suburbs like Surry Hills. Take a ferry ride and glide along the glittering harbor. Admire the graceful arch of Sydney Harbour Bridge, spot the white sails of the Opera house, and see why this city is so beautiful. The Sydney Opera House is the most recognizable of the city's landmarks, but the Royal Botanic Gardens, Bondi Beach, and Harbor Bridge are also worthwhile attractions. A sparkling harbor, beautiful beaches, and impressive landmarks galore are responsible for Sydney’s place in the beautiful cities poll. Its charm is further amplified by leafy suburbs like Surry Hills and picturesque coastal paths, such as the one that leads from Bondi to Coogee.

Often considered the world’s most beautiful city, Paris is definitely among the most stylish and sophisticated. It’s the capital city of France and it holds a fascinating place in history for its politics and art. Paris is also known for food, fashion, love, cinema, cafes, perfume, and more. Paris is a place where romance and history play side by side. Cafés line cobblestone streets, beautiful people stroll along the Seine at all hours, and every neighborhood seems to have its own iconic landmark, be it the Notre Dame, Sacré-Coeur, or Eiffel Tower.

From the Seine to the pastel sunsets behind the Eiffel Tower to the Champs-Élysées all lit up at night. Paris truly has something for everyone, whether you love literature, art, architecture, food, nightlife, shopping, or simply walking around and exploring new cities. The Seine and the bridges that cross it, the grand boulevards, the monumental squares, the magnificent monuments, the charming streets of Montmartre -- these images of Paris confirm that it is indeed the most elegant and sophisticated of all cities. It has inspired practically every major world capital, with every city claiming its own Champs-Elysèes, and Place des Vosges becoming the prototype of residential squares throughout Europe. Nicknamed the City of Lights, Paris looks just as beautiful at night time, when many of the famous landmarks are illuminated. The City of Light has not only inspired painters, sculptors, writers, poets, and composers but also practically every major world capital, with every city claiming its own Champs-Elysèes. Cruise on the Seine or watch the world pass by from a café terrace or and it’s easy to understand why so many people fall in love with Paris.

Many of the most beautiful cities in the world have amazing natural attractions like the capital city, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Famous for its lively Carnival, sultry bossa nova, and incredible beaches, Rio de Janeiro is also one of the most visited cities in the world. Rio has some of the loveliest stretches of sand in the world, from Copacabana to Ipanema, and its cobbled city streets are filled with the sounds of samba day and night. The Christ the Redeemer statue watches over all of it—even the tropical rainforest that sits within the city's bounds. Spectacular ocean views, countless cultural events, and experiences, and a lush tropical landscape set this Brazilian metropolis apart.

Among Rio de Janeiro's most famous sites is the 98-foot Christ the Redeemer statue overlooking the city, Sugarloaf Mountain (accessible by cable car), the annual Carnival, and popular beaches. The city is indeed blessed with one of the most stunning settings in the world, making it the most naturally beautiful city in the world. Even if it was deserted of buildings and population, anyone standing at the top of the famous Sugarloaf Mountain or by the Corcovado statue would see one of the world's most beautiful landscapes. Green, tropical luxuriance mixes with the blue of the ocean and the brightness of the sand at the beaches, proving that this is truly "the marvelous city" as locals call it. Named a World Heritage Site, UNESCO’s accolades weren’t just for its natural setting but also for its urban cultural landscape, the mix of architecture, and stunning green spaces such as the botanical gardens.

Walled cities are naturally some of the most beautiful cities in the world and Quebec City in the province of Quebec in Canada is exquisite. Old Quebec is on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It was founded in the early 17th Century by the French explorer Champlain. It’s the only walled city in North America with intact ramparts, bastions, and gates. A visit there feels as if you’ve been transported to the cobbled streets of a French village. There is an Upper Town called Haute-Ville and a Lower Town called Basse-Ville. Both are utterly charming with little boulangeries and creperies. The castle-like Le Château Frontenac hotel overlooks Old Quebec City, which is packed with shops and cafes.

For a real taste of Canada’s European past, look no further than Quebec City. The city has an enviable position on a hill by a cliff overlooking the St. Lawrence River, which only makes its ancient architecture even more spectacular. For that once-in-a-lifetime shot, head to the opposite end of the river and watch the sunset paint the Old Town in shades of pink and purple. For a taste of European splendor without crossing the pond, head to French-speaking Quebec City. Visitors can feel the history while exploring the narrow streets dotted with stone buildings in the city center, which dates back to 1608. Though it's quite cold, it's particularly cold in the winter when blanketed in snow. Quebec City is one of the oldest European settlements in North America and one of the most popular destinations in Canada. Now, it's also recognized as one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

The beauty of the city of San Miguel de Allende in the central highlands of Mexico comes from its Spanish baroque architecture and influences. The city also has a vibrant arts scene with many fiestas of art, music, and food held throughout the year. Cobblestone streets lead to the main plaza, El Jardin, and the pink neo-Gothic church, Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel, the iconic city landmark. Many consider colonial-era San Miguel de Allende one of Mexico’s prettiest cities, and it’s no wonder. Here, visitors will find leafy courtyards, narrow cobblestone streets, and a historic town center from which the Gothic Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel’s pink towers rise high above the main plaza.

With colorfully painted buildings lining the hilly landscape and some of the best food, art festivals, and artisanal shopping in the world, San Miguel de Allende is easily one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Visitors will especially love it if they are a fan of baroque Spanish architecture, colorful blooms, and warm weather. The city's centerpiece, the Sanctuary of Jesus of Atotonilco, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other noteworthy attractions include the San Miguel Arcangel Parish and the Mercado de Artesanías. San Miguel de Allende features some spectacular Colonial and Spanish architecture and is considered one of Mexico’s, as well as the world's, most attractive cities. This charming Mexican city is packed with cobbled streets zig-zagging into leafy courtyards. And at the center of the city, the iconic pink Gothic Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel stands towering above the El Jardin.

Jaipur - known as Pink City, its famous landmarks are actually pink, originally under the orders of King Sawai Ram Singh. This is one of the reasons Jaipur stands as one of the prettiest cities in the world. In 1876, Albert Edward, Prince of Wales, (who would later be crowned King Edward VII, Emperor of India), visited this majestic city. Pink was considered the color of hospitality and to celebrate the Prince’s visit, the artistically inclined Maharajah Sawai Ram Singh ordered that the city buildings be painted pink. The delighted Albert called Jaipur the “pink city,” and the name stuck. Today, many parts of the city sport the same fetching shade of pink and see a fresh coat every few years.

Jaipur is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, also known as the "Pink City" for its colorful palaces. Tour Amber Palace, the Palace of the Winds, and the City Palace for the best of the city's architecture. Jaipur is home to a large number of marvelous forts, gorgeous palaces, and magnificent temples. These historic architectures, along with the vibrant culture of Jaipur, attract tourists from all over the world. Be it the 300-year-old Hawa Mahal, the grandiose Amer Fort, the City Palace, or the Nahargarh Fort, each and every place within the city will leave travelers mesmerized. Jaipur also boasts of some traditional marketplaces, the most famous being the Bapu Bazaar and Johari Bazaar. Think scenic beauty, delectable food, or shopping, Jaipur blends the magic of all.

London is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with history (Westminster Abbey) and models of modernity (London Eye, The Gherkin) mingling on the Thames. Art and literature seem to seep out of the city's walls - and in recent years, London has glammed up even more, with contemporary art galleries and boutique retailers adding some glimmer to formerly seedy areas. Towering symbols of London include Big Ben, the London Eye, and, of course, Buckingham Palace. The city's iconic Notting Hill neighborhood is also instantly recognizable with its pastel-colored buildings. With sprawling green spaces, its huge gothic parliament buildings, and perhaps the most famous residence in the world, Buckingham Palace, London can lay claim to being one of the most beautiful cities ever built. Even in the grittier east, you can find allure at Columbia Road flower market, or atop the hill in Greenwich Park overlooking the Canary Wharf towers across the Thames.

London is a fun city to visit any time of year, but also one of the most liveable cities in the world. It has so much more to offer than just beautiful sights. Aside from being super liveable thanks to an incredibly efficient public transportation system, there's also street style and design inspiration on tap, some of the coolest museums, and the most delicious restaurants in the world. London is steeped in history, dotted with modernity, and, of course, dazzled by the flowering purple wisteria. Put on your walking shoes and stroll through the many paved streets to find the best London hidden gems. There are many quaint little squares surrounded by towering gothic buildings. See the changing of the guards at, perhaps, the most famous residence, Buckingham Palace. Saunter through Columbia Road flower market, Spitalfields, and sit atop the hill in Greenwich Park. The city hosts plenty of attractions, from Westminster Abbey and the London Eye to the Thames and the Shard.