The Aussie city crowned Condé Nast Traveller’s best for 2024!

With its iconic landmarks, vibrant culture and unbeatable lifestyle, here’s why this Australian city tops the global list.

Australia is back on the world stage, with Sydney being crowned Condé Nast Traveller’s best city in the world for 2024. Beating out stiff competition from some of the world’s most beloved urban hubs, Sydney’s blend of natural beauty, world-class dining and outdoor lifestyle made it a clear winner. Sorry Melbourne!

The honour was voted on by a whopping half a million Condé Nast Traveller readers, with Sydney receiving a score of 92.96. Following closely behind was Valencia, Spain with 92.78 and Singapore with 92.47.

Why Sydney?

From the towering sails of the Sydney Opera House to the golden sands of Bondi Beach, it’s a city that blends cultural and outdoor experiences like nowhere else.

It’s impossible to mention Sydney without imagining its world-famous harbour. No matter if you’re catching a ferry to Manly or climbing the Harbour Bridge for a panoramic view of the city, the harbour is the heart of Sydney’s appeal.

Sydney Harbour is world-renowned.

Sydney’s food scene

Sydney’s dining is another key factor that helped it land on Condé Nast Traveller’s prestigious list. With a fusion of flavours influenced by diverse cultures, Sydney is a paradise for food lovers. Whether you’re sipping a flat white in Surry Hills, indulging in fresh seafood at Circular Quay or dining at world-class restaurants, the city’s culinary offerings are nothing short of spectacular.

Outdoor lifestyle

Sydney’s love affair with the outdoors is another element that draws in global visitors. The coastal walks, like the Bondi to Coogee walk, offer jaw-dropping ocean views, while surfers, swimmers and sun-seekers can explore Sydney’s beaches, from Cronulla to Palm Beach.

A trip to Bondi Beach is iconic.

The global appeal of Sydney

Sydney isn’t just a tourist destination – it’s a thriving, multicultural metropolis. The city has something for everyone, from exploring local markets or enjoying the vibrant nightlife at hidden bars across the city or at the incredible old pubs in The Rocks.

On top of that, Sydney is a major hub for international events. Vivid Sydney is just one of the many events that attract travellers from around the world.

Sydney has something for everyone.

The top 10

Condé Nast Traveller’s 10 best cities in the world for 2024 are:

1. Sydney, Australia
2. Valencia, Spain
3. Singapore
4. Hong Kong
5. Stockholm, Sweden
6. Tokyo, Japan
7. Vienna, Austria
8. Berlin, Germany
9. Milan, Italy
10. Budapest, Hungary

Explore the top things to do in Sydney.