In the fierce battle of the world’s best cities, England stands tall, flexing its metropolitan muscle against the Southern Hemisphere. Time Out magazine’s 2024 Best Cities in the World rankings have sparked debate, not least in the expat communities of England, Ireland, Scotland, and beyond in Australia.

The highest-ranking UK city in the list was London, clinching the fourth spot. Impressive, but London topped the ranking in 2023. 

The British capital trailed New York this year, at number one, second-placed Berlin in Germany, and South Africa’s Cape Town in third spot. 

A testament to London’s enduring allure, the city outshone its rivals with its vibrant culture, iconic landmarks, and unbeatable nightlife.

But, the English pride didn’t stop there. Liverpool, the city of The Beatles and football legends, made a surprising surge, landing a respectable seventh place, an amazing leap from 74th place in 2023, while Manchester secured the 15th spot, up from 72nd in 2023, showcasing the North’s undeniable charm. 

Surprisingly, Australia’s flagship cities, Sydney and Melbourne, found themselves trailing behind the UK, with Sydney clinching the 31st position and Melbourne at 20th. 

In 2023, Melbourne was ranked at 31st so it has jumped 11 places, and Sydney was 35th last year, so it has climbed four. 

Meanwhile, Glasgow proudly represented Scotland, breaking into the top 30, from 61st position last year, a testament to its rich heritage and warm hospitality.

Ireland didn’t get a look-in in the top 50, despite being known for its beauty and friendly, lively cities. In last year’s ranking, Dublin came in at number 20. 

Time Out asks thousands of city-dwellers around the world to tell them what it’s like to work, live and play in their hometowns. Thanks to the insights of these locals, they create their global ranking of world’s best cities. 

Here are the top 10: 

1. New York

2. Cape town

3. Berlin

4. London

5. Madrid

6. Mexico city

7. Liverpool

8. Tokyo

9. Rome

10. Porto

Cover picture: MediaCity and The Quays is an iconic waterfront destination that’s part of Salford Quays in Manchester. The northern English city came 15th place in the world’s top cities ranking. Credit: VisitManchester

Above: Liverpool came seventh in Time Out magazine’s list of the world’s top 50 cities in 2024. Credit: VisitLiverpool