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The list even includes some hidden gems.

These cities are celebrated for their breathtaking beauty, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences. And yes, London, a capital city beloved by many, didn't make the top 11, coming in 17th position in the ranking.

Even Paris, often assumed to claim a top spot, didn't break into the top three, proving that the world's most stunning cities can sometimes surprise us. From busy capitals brimming with art and history to hidden gems tucked away in nature, these cities will have you booking your next trip before you finish reading.

Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a solo adventure, or a family vacation, this list showcases cities that are simply impossible to forget. Travel + Leisure magazine named the 25 most beautiful cities in the world, and here are the first 11 cities that made the cut.

11. Cape Town, South Africa

Where mountains meet the sea. With Table Mountain towering above and beautiful white sand beaches stretching out below, Cape Town is a mix of adventure, culture, and excellent wine.

Don't miss Bo-Kaap, the city's vibrant and historic neighbourhood full of cobblestone streets and colourful houses.

10. Palermo, Italy

Palermo, the capital city of Sicily, offers Sicilian charm in every corner. Palermo's markets, Arab-Norman architecture, and irresistible street food make it a city to taste, explore, and experience at every turn.

Steeped in history, Palermo has been shaped by centuries of diverse influences, from the Phoenicians and Romans to the Arabs, Normans, and Spanish.

Highlights include the majestic Palermo Cathedral, a blend of Gothic, Norman, and Baroque styles; the grand Teatro Massimo, Italy's largest opera house; and the historic Palazzo dei Normanni, home to the exquisite Palatine Chapel with its dazzling mosaics.

9. San Francisco, USA

Hills, cable cars, and stunning vistas, San Francisco is an iconic city. From the impressive Golden Gate Bridge to colourful murals in the Mission District, every street feels like a scene from a film.

8. Istanbul, Turkey

Straddling Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus Strait, Istanbul is a city filled with history, culture, and breathtaking scenery.

Explore majestic mosques, the massive Grand Bazaar and Spice Market, as well as sunsets over the Bosphorus that you'll never forget.

Some of its must-see sites include the iconic Hagia Sophia, the stunning Blue Mosque, the underground Basilica Cistern, and the opulent Topkapi Palace.

7. Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown is also known as the "Adventure Capital of the World" due to its stunning location on Lake Wakatipu and surrounding Southern Alps. Every view is like a postcard come to life.

It offers an incredible mix of adrenaline-fuelled experiences, from bungee jumping-where commercial bungy jumping was born-to jet boating, skydiving, white-water rafting, mountain biking, paragliding, skiing, and ziplining.

6. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a stunning city that truly has it all. From Antoni Gaudí's iconic architecture to golden beaches and lively neighbourhoods, the Catalan offers both culture and relaxation.

Don't miss the Sagrada Família, Park Güell, Casa Batlló, and Casa Milà, and make sure to wander through La Rambla and the atmospheric streets of the Gothic Quarter, or head up to Montjuïc for panoramic views.

When it's time to unwind, head to Barceloneta, Bogatell, and Nova Icaria beaches offering golden sands just minutes from the city centre.

5. Hi An, Vietnam

There's no place like Hi An. At night, this city offers a magical atmosphere with hundreds of lit lanters of all types of colours full of lit lanterns of all kinds of colours that adorn with traditional boats gliding gently along the Hoai River.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999, Hi An is a beautifully preserved ancient trading port shaped by Vietnamese, Japanese, Chinese, and European influences.

It's also a city filled with tailor shops, canals and delicious street food like Banh Mi.

4. Paris, France

While Paris didn't make the top three, the city of love and light, still came in fourth position in the ranking. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the Sacre Coeur and Notre-Dame to the lively streets of Le Marais or Montmartre and its world-famous architecture, it's almost impossible not to be captivated by the city's beauty.

Add café-lined streets, the scenic Seine River, art-filled museums, and a food scene celebrated around the world, and Paris continues to live up to its reputation as one of the most beautiful and inspiring cities on the planet.

3. Singapore

Renowned for its world-class food scene, spotless streets, and lush green spaces, the island country and city state is one of the most dynamic and visually striking cities in the world.

Futuristic landmarks like Marina Bay Sands and the glowing Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay sit alongside historic neighbourhoods such as Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam.

2. Tbilisi, Georgia

This underrated European city takes the second spot in the ranking and is incredibly beautiful. One of Europe's oldest capitals, Tbilisi has served as Georgia's cultural, political, and economic heart for over 1,500 years. It combines both Eastern traditions with Western influences.

The city's diverse architecture spans centuries, from Eastern Orthodox churches and ornate Art Nouveau buildings to striking Soviet Modernist structures, while the 4th-century Narikala Fortress offers panoramic views over Tbilisi and the winding Kura River.

With its lively cafés, historic baths, mouthwatering local cuisine, and vibrant culture, Tbilisi feels both timeless and full of life, all at a remarkably affordable price compared to other more traditionally popular capital cities.

1. Sydney, Australia

Sydney takes the crown as the world's most beautiful city, with its sparkling harbour, iconic landmarks, and stunning beaches.

Don't miss the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, the sun-soaked beaches of Manly and Tamarama, or the serene beauty of the Royal Botanic Garden.