Australian cities have emerged as top contenders in the latest global city holiday rankings, with Sydney leading the pack. Despite its reputation as the “entertainment capital of the world,” Las Vegas finds itself at the lower end of the scale.
The prestigious list, revealing the finest city destinations beyond Europe, has been unveiled. Australia shines in the rankings, with Sydney securing the prime position, followed closely by Melbourne and Perth.
Cape Town, South Africa, clinches the runner-up spot, while Chicago in the US, Kyoto in Japan, and the Southeast Asian city-state of Singapore share the third place.
A survey conducted by consumer group Which? Several American cities, including Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, ranked low on the list of the best global cities after COVID-19.
Rory Boland, the editor of Which? Travel has commented on the results of their recent survey of cities. According to him, the cities that scored the highest are diverse but share a common trait – they all offer a sensory overload of cultural experiences, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking vistas, ultimately resulting in a spectacular ‘wow’ factor.
Australia has become a favourite tourist destination, with cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth offering a perfect blend of urban sophistication and a relaxed beach atmosphere.
“Chicago is highlighted as offering the quintessential American experience at a more favourable cost.”
Experience.
In this survey, 1,800 participants shared feedback on their global travel experiences outside Europe within the past three years, covering over 3,000 journeys.
Cities were evaluated across seven criteria: culinary quality, cultural attractions, tourist sites, navigability, and overall value.
The final city score was determined by combining overall satisfaction and the likelihood of recommending the destination.
Sydney earned a remarkable city score of 88%, boasting icons like the Opera House and Bondi Beach. The city received four-star ratings in lodging, shopping, cuisine, and cultural attractions.
Cape Town earned a five-star rating for its food and drink, with a city score of 85%. The city was praised for its “exceptional, freshly sourced” seafood and regional wines, securing the second spot.
Tied for third place are Chicago, Kyoto, and Singapore. Nestled on Lake Michigan’s southern coast, Chicago received accolades for its “stunning” architecture. Singapore was the only city with two five-star ratings for its culinary delights and shopping experience.
Kyoto, the historical heart of Japan for over a millennium, is a treasure trove of the nation’s heritage. It is one of only two cities with a five-star rating for its cultural sites and attractions.
Following closely are Melbourne with 83% and a tie between Perth, Tokyo, and Washington DC, each with 82%, occupying the sixth and joint seventh positions.
On the survey’s opposite end, despite its grand casinos and high-profile performances, Las Vegas scored the lowest at 52%.
Completing the bottom trio are Santiago, Chile’s capital, and Los Angeles, with scores of 58% and 60%, respectively.
