In compiling this year's list, Time Out used two data sources. First, more than 18,500 people around the world were surveyed about culture in their city. Each city was then ranked according to how locals rated the quality and affordability of its culture scene.
They were also asked about the cultural venues, events and festivals they love the most in their hometown. This data was then combined with scores from a panel of Time Out culture experts – Time Out’s global network of city editors and culture experts – who voted for their favourite destinations. To ensure the list reflects cultural cities globally, only the highest-scoring cities for each country were included on the longlist.
Grace Beard, Travel Editor at Time Out, said: “Time Out’s annual ranking of the world’s best cities for culture is the definitive travel guide for those seeking a cultural city break where experiencing art in all its forms is affordable and accessible. Informed by the insights of 18,500 city-dwellers and a panel of Time Out experts, this list reflects the global destinations where art and culture isn’t confined to mammoth museums and major arts venues (though there are plenty of those).
“Think pop-up festivals in unlikely locations, late-night museum parties, and a new class of creatives pushing the boundaries of performing arts. Each of these 20 cities has a lively programme of cultural events alongside legacy institutions for the arts – that’s why they’re the cultural capitals of today.”
Take a look through our gallery to see the top 10 of Time Out’s Best Cities for Culture in 2025 – and find the full list of 20 here: timeout.com/travel/worlds-best-cities-for-culture
9. 8. Lisbon, Portugal
Time Out says: 2025 sees Lisbon’s art scene booming, with many bold new museums opening in the past year including the sleek, award-winning CAM; the Albuquerque Foundation which is home to one of the world’s biggest private collections of imported Chinese porcelain; and MACAM, which features a chapel-turned-bar and hotel. Photo: Pixabay
10. 9. Hanoi, Vietnam
Time Out says: Hanoi was voted the most affordable city for culture by locals, and its youthful energy pulses through buzzing venues and ancient alleyways alike. In the Old Quarter, traditional instruments get a modern twist, while Hanoi Rock City hosts the city’s rising music stars. Fashion labels like Kilomet109 turn heritage textiles into couture, and just outside the city, the now-iconic Equation Festival throws a rave deep inside a mountain cave. Photo: Pixabay
11. 10. Cape Town, South Africa
Time Out says: Topping Time Out’s list of best cities in the world earlier this year, Cape Town was sure to feature on the list of best cities for culture, too. 89% of Capetonians said the city’s culture scene was high quality, and with powerful new art spaces like Dweba Art & Cafe opening, and hit stage shows like Dear Evan Hansen, it’s not a surprise. First Thursdays, the city’s beloved monthly gallery night, has expanded its reach to Stellenbosch, and there’s always something to do or see with the whole family at the Iziko South African Museum. Photo: Pixabay