When it comes to global city rankings, Paris, Dubai, and Singapore always steal the show.
They’re beautiful, bold, and big on numbers—Paris alone saw over 17 million visitors this year, landing it at the top of Euromonitor’s Top 100 City Destinations Index for 2024.
But here’s where it gets interesting: tucked further down the list are cities quietly climbing the ranks, places redefining what it means to travel today. They may not yet have the global dominance of the big hitters, but they’re turning heads with culture, creativity, and potential. And sometimes, the rank itself tells you something—like a city that’s just starting to make its mark or one that’s underappreciated despite being ready for its moment.
Let’s skip the usual suspects and dive into the rankings to spotlight the rising stars.
1. Bologna, Italy (Ranked 71st)
Known as the culinary capital of Italy, Bologna is a feast for the senses. Its medieval streets hum with life, while its arcaded walkways and red-brick buildings give the city a distinctive warmth.
Why Go: Eat your way through authentic tagliatelle al ragù and mortadella, climb the Asinelli Tower for views of the terracotta rooftops, and explore the city’s buzzing cultural scene.
2. Rhodes, Greece (Ranked 72nd)
This sun-soaked island isn’t just about beaches—it’s a treasure trove of history. Rhodes’ medieval Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its streets are steeped in stories of knights and ancient empires.
Why Go: Wander the cobblestone alleys of the Old Town, visit the Acropolis of Lindos, and relax on golden beaches with views of the Aegean.
3. Verona, Italy (Ranked 73rd)
While Venice gets most of the attention in northern Italy, Verona quietly enchants visitors with its timeless romance and rich history. It’s the city of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, but there’s so much more to discover.
Why Go: Visit the ancient Roman amphitheater, stroll across the Ponte Pietra, and enjoy the vibrant café culture in Piazza delle Erbe.
4. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam (Ranked 76th)
Fast-paced and full of contrasts, Ho Chi Minh City blends colonial architecture, modern skyscrapers, and bustling markets into a vibrant urban tapestry.
Why Go: Explore the historic landmarks of District 1, dive into the energetic Ben Thanh Market, and savor street food like bánh mì and pho that’ll leave you craving more.
5. Tbilisi, Georgia (Ranked 89th)
Tbilisi’s ranking might not place it near the top, but its charm is undeniable. This is a city that defies easy categorization, blending centuries-old traditions with an emerging creative scene that feels electric.
Why Go: Wander the cobblestone streets of the old town, relax in the iconic sulfur baths, and dive into the local wine culture in the heart of Georgia’s burgeoning wine scene.
6. Marne-La-Vallée, France (Ranked 78th)
Located just outside Paris, Marne-La-Vallée is best known as the home of Disneyland Paris, but there’s more to this town than theme parks. It’s a charming base for exploring the Ile-de-France region.
Why Go: Visit Disneyland Paris for the magic, then explore the town’s markets and charming streets, or hop on a train to nearby Château de Champs-sur-Marne for a quieter escape.
7. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (Ranked 79th)
Few cities can match the vibrancy of Rio de Janeiro. From its world-famous beaches to its samba-fueled nightlife, Rio is a city that celebrates life in every way.
Why Go: Take in the view from Christ the Redeemer, stroll along Copacabana Beach, and experience the infectious energy of Carnival season.
8. Kraków, Poland (Ranked 80th)
Kraków’s historic charm and cultural depth make it one of Europe’s most enchanting cities. From its medieval Old Town to its poignant World War II history, Kraków is a city that stays with you.
Why Go: Visit Wawel Castle, reflect at Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial, and explore the buzzing Kazimierz district for art, food, and nightlife.
9. Heraklion, Greece (Ranked 81st)
Heraklion, the capital of Crete, is where ancient history meets vibrant Mediterranean culture. Its rich archaeological sites and lively port town vibe make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a mix of past and present.
Why Go: Discover the Palace of Knossos, explore the Archaeological Museum, and enjoy fresh seafood by the sea.
10. Porto, Portugal (Ranked 75th)
Porto’s rise in the rankings shows it’s no longer in Lisbon’s shadow. With its historic architecture, iconic Douro River, and legendary port wine, Porto is a city that combines grit and glamour in all the best ways.
Why Go: Cruise the Douro River, visit world-famous port wine cellars, and get lost in the colorful streets of the Ribeira district.
Why the Rankings Matter
The top of the Euromonitor list may be dominated by global heavyweights like Paris and Singapore, but these rising stars show a different side of travel. Their rankings tell stories of growth, innovation, and untapped potential.
These cities aren’t just about checking off landmarks—they’re about experiencing places that feel alive and authentic, places where you can still find a sense of discovery. Whether you’re planning your next trip or just looking for inspiration, these hidden gems are ready to shine in 2025.
Which of these cities are calling your name? Or do you have a personal favorite that didn’t make the list? Let me know—I’d love to hear your travel plans!
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Featured Image Credit: Pexels / Caio.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
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