Time Out has released its annual list of the world’s best cities for 2026, with three Spanish destinations securing places in the global ranking. The list is based on a survey of more than 24,000 people across 150 cities worldwide, alongside input from experts and the publication’s editorial team.
For travellers, the ranking offers a snapshot of cities that combine culture, food and quality of life, helping shape decisions on where to visit next. The 2026 list is topped by Melbourne, with several global hubs including Shanghai, Edinburgh, London and New York also featuring in the top five.
The ranking evaluates cities on a wide range of factors, including gastronomy, culture, transport systems, quality of life and residents’ happiness. These criteria aim to reflect not only visitor appeal but also what it is like to live in each destination.
Madrid is the highest-ranked Spanish city, placing 19th globally. The capital continues to gain popularity as one of Europe’s most dynamic urban destinations, driven by its cultural scene, nightlife and extensive culinary offering. Areas such as Gran Vía and landmarks like Puerta de Alcalá remain key draws for both domestic and international visitors.
Just one place behind, Valencia ranks 20th. The city stands out for its high quality of life, with nearly 7 in 10 residents reporting they are happy living there. Its mix of cultural attractions, food scene and coastal setting contributes to its growing appeal among travellers seeking a more relaxed alternative to larger European capitals.
The third Spanish city on the list is Bilbao, which ranks 27th. Known as a leading gastronomic destination in Spain and across Europe, Bilbao receives strong approval from residents, with 75% rating the city positively. The same proportion of locals also highlight the efficiency of public transport and the ease of exploring the city on foot.
At the top of the global ranking, Melbourne leads the list, followed by Shanghai in second place and Edinburgh in third. London and New York complete the top five, reinforcing their status as major global cities for culture, tourism and lifestyle.
Other cities in the top 10 include Cape Town, Mexico City, Bangkok, Seoul and Tokyo, reflecting a diverse mix of destinations across continents. The results highlight how cities worldwide continue to compete on quality of life and visitor experience, factors that increasingly influence travel choices.
