Here’s why Vancouver is one of the best cities in the world according to a new ranking

Over 24,000 locals were quizzed by Time Out recently to uncover the best cities across the globe, and Vancouver made the cut. With the city soon transforming for all things FIFA this summer, now is a great time to take a peek and see what makes Vancouver stand out among travellers and residents alike.

Time Out’s Best Cities with Intrepid Travel showcases the many reasons to visit the top 50 cities in the world. Each city is selected as a result of thousands of local responses combined with the votes of over 100 Time Out city experts.

Now in its 10th year, the renowned list reveals the most exciting places ot live in and to explore every year.

Coming in spot 39 out of 50, Vancouver was highly ranked by locals as one of the world’s greatest green cities, with 87 per cent of Vancouverites responding that our city’s green spaces are its biggest flex.

Vancouver’s food scene follows closely behind, receiving a “very respectable” 85 per cent approval rating, according to Time Out.

Beyond what locals have to say, Vancouver was praised for its beautiful nature and outdoor adventures, with picnicking at Jericho Beach, biking Stanley Park, and walking among the treetops at Capilano Suspension Bridge earning special shout-outs. Time Out also noted how easy it is, compared to other cities, for Vancouver dwellers to squeeze in a run or two after work during ski season.

Curious which other global destinations made the cut?

Here are the top 20 best cities in the world for 2026, according to Time Out:

1.  Melbourne, Australia
2. Shanghai, China
3. Edinburgh, Scotland
4. London, England
5. New York, U.S.
6. Cape Town, South Africa
7. Mexico City, Mexico
8. Bangkok, Thailand
9. Seoul, South Korea
10. Tokyo, Japan
11. Zürich, Switzerland
12. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
13. Copenhagen, Denmark
14. São Paulo, Brazil
15. Hong Kong
16. Kraków, Poland
17. Porto, Portugal
18. Guadalajara, Mexico
19.  Madrid, Spain
20. Valencia, Spain

What do you think about the ranking?

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