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Everyone has a favorite Asian city – whether it’s the street food stalls of Bangkok, the peaceful temples of Kyoto, or the creative vibe of Chiang Mai. But what happens when nearly 180,000 travelers cast their votes?
That’s exactly what happened in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards 2025, where readers from across the globe rated cities on key travel factors like landmarks, culture, cuisine, friendliness, shopping, and overall value. These categories were judged on a 5-point scale, from Poor to Excellent.
The result? A list of the 15 best cities in Asia for 2025 – based not on popularity alone, but on authentic experiences and traveler satisfaction.
This article breaks down each city on the list and explains why these destinations captured the hearts of so many. Whether you're planning your next trip or just dreaming, this guide will show you exactly where to go and why.
1. Chiang Mai, Thailand
It’s official: Chiang Mai is the best city in Asia for 2025. While Bangkok often grabs the spotlight, Chiang Mai quietly wins hearts with its authentic charm, cultural heritage, and laid-back lifestyle. Nestled in the northern mountains of Thailand, it offers a refreshing contrast to the capital’s fast pace.
Temples from the ancient Lanna Kingdom
Jungle treks and mountain viewpoints
Ethical elephant experiences
Night markets with handmade goods
💡 Interesting Fact: Chiang Mai is home to over 300 Buddhist temples, making it one of the most temple-rich cities in the world.
💡 Travel Tip: Visit the Sunday Walking Street for unbeatable local crafts and incredible street food under twinkling lanterns.
2. Tokyo, Japan
Modern and magical, Tokyo never disappoints. In fact, it continues to dazzle travelers year after year with its perfect mix of tradition and innovation. Because of its diverse attractions and seamless transport, it's an ideal destination for first-time and returning visitors alike.
Futuristic buildings and historic shrines
Sushi, ramen, and Michelin-starred dining
Shopping from quirky to luxury
💡 Interesting Fact: Tokyo has more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other city in the world – over 200, to be exact!
💡 Travel Tip: Visit teamLab Planets for a surreal art and light experience.
3. Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok stays on every traveler’s bucket list. It’s fast-paced, colorful, and full of flavor.
🍜 Unbeatable street food scene
🛕 Grand temples and royal palaces
🚤 Longtail boat rides through canals
💡 Travel Tip: Visit early morning markets to avoid crowds and heat.
4. Jaipur, India
The Pink City is a visual feast. Jaipur blends Mughal architecture with Rajasthani charm, offering visitors a vibrant mix of royal history, artistic tradition, and dynamic street life. Because of its historic significance and visual appeal, it's a favorite among photographers and culture lovers alike.
Palaces and historic forts
Colorful textiles and handmade goods
Flavors of Northern India
💡 Interesting Fact: Jaipur was India’s first planned city, established in 1727 with wide boulevards and a grid layout inspired by Vedic architecture.
💡 Travel Tip: Head to Nahargarh Fort for panoramic views at sunset.
5. Hoi An, Vietnam
A romantic riverside town, Hoi An charms travelers with its mix of history and style. Because of its exceptionally well-preserved old town and relaxed atmosphere, it continues to enchant visitors year-round. Whether you're wandering its cobblestone alleys or sipping Vietnamese coffee by the river, Hoi An delivers a truly magical experience.
Lantern-lit streets and river cruises
Affordable custom tailoring
UNESCO-preserved architecture
💡 Interesting Fact: Hoi An was once a bustling trading port dating back to the 15th century, attracting merchants from Japan, China, and Europe.
💡 Travel Tip: Join a cooking class to learn local Vietnamese recipes.
6. Kyoto, Japan
For tranquility and tradition, Kyoto is unmatched. While Tokyo is bold and bustling, Kyoto moves at a gentler pace, offering visitors a chance to connect deeply with Japan's cultural roots. Because of its historical significance and timeless beauty, it's a favorite among those seeking a more spiritual and reflective travel experience.
Temples and shrines everywhere
Ceremonial tea houses
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
💡 Interesting Fact: Kyoto was the imperial capital of Japan for over 1,000 years, and it still preserves many ancient rituals, festivals, and traditions to this day.
💡 Travel Tip: Visit in April or November for cherry blossoms or fall colors.
7. Ubud, Indonesia
At Bali’s spiritual heart, Ubud invites travelers to slow down and connect. While Bali’s southern coast is bustling with beachgoers and nightlife seekers, Ubud offers a peaceful retreat into nature and creativity. Because of its deep spiritual roots and artistic community, it remains a top destination for wellness tourism and cultural immersion.
Yoga retreats and wellness centers
Rice terraces and jungle hideaways
Creative arts and crafts
💡 Interesting Fact: Ubud gets its name from the Balinese word “ubad,” which means medicine – a nod to its history as a center for healing and traditional medicine.
💡 Travel Tip: Book a villa in the jungle for a nature-meets-luxury escape.
8. Siem Reap, Cambodia
Home to Angkor Wat, Siem Reap is a cultural powerhouse with a surprisingly lively vibe. While most travelers come for the temples, they often stay longer because of the warm hospitality, buzzing night markets, and rich culinary scene. As you explore beyond the ruins, you’ll discover a creative and modern edge to this ancient city.
World’s largest temple complex
Artsy cafés and galleries
Unique Khmer flavors
💡 Interesting Fact: Angkor Wat is not only the largest religious monument in the world, but it also appears on Cambodia’s national flag – the only flag in the world featuring a temple.
💡 Travel Tip: Explore the temples by bicycle for a more intimate adventure.
9. Mumbai, India
Mumbai is a mix of glamour and grit. It’s one of Asia’s most dynamic urban experiences. While it can be overwhelming at first, the city rewards those who dive deeper into its culture, history, and contrasts. Because of its role as both the financial capital and the heart of Bollywood, Mumbai offers a unique blend of opportunity and creativity that’s hard to match.
Bollywood studios and historic districts
Sea views from Marine Drive
Rooftop dining with city views
💡 Interesting Fact: Mumbai was originally a group of seven islands that were gradually merged by land reclamation during the 18th century.
💡 Travel Tip: Join a heritage walk to explore Mumbai’s colonial roots.
10. Agra, India
Everyone visits for the Taj Mahal, but Agra has more to offer. While the Taj takes center stage, the city holds other incredible treasures that showcase India’s rich Mughal history. In addition to architectural marvels, Agra is known for its artisanal craftsmanship and flavorful cuisine, which together create a deeper cultural experience.
Magnificent Mughal architecture
Marble inlay and local crafts
Rich traditional cuisine
💡 Interesting Fact: The city was once the capital of the Mughal Empire and is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Fatehpur Sikri.
💡 Travel Tip: Visit Mehtab Bagh for quieter views of the Taj.
11. Osaka, Japan
Known as Japan’s kitchen, Osaka is a dream for foodies and fun-lovers. While it’s often overshadowed by Tokyo and Kyoto, Osaka offers an edgier, more relaxed vibe that many travelers find refreshing. Because of its thriving food culture and energetic nightlife, it has become one of Japan’s most entertaining cities.
Street food heaven – try takoyaki
Theme parks and nightlife
Vibrant entertainment scene
💡 Interesting Fact: Osaka is the birthplace of instant ramen – created by Momofuku Ando in 1958 and now celebrated in the city’s Cup Noodles Museum.
💡 Travel Tip: Explore Dotonbori in the evening for the best vibes.
12. Hanoi, Vietnam
Hanoi is chaotic in the best way – full of charm and character. Although it may seem overwhelming at first, Hanoi rewards curious travelers with layers of history, flavorful street food, and authentic daily life. Because of its mix of ancient traditions and colonial influences, it offers a travel experience unlike any other in Southeast Asia.
Scooter-packed streets and old quarters
Unique dishes like egg coffee
Colonial architecture and lakes
💡 Interesting Fact: Hanoi’s Old Quarter has remained largely unchanged for centuries, with many streets still named after the goods that were historically sold there, such as Silk Street and Paper Street.
💡 Travel Tip: Don’t miss the Train Street for coffee and cool photos.
13. Taipei, Taiwan
Taipei is where tech meets tradition, and the food never stops impressing. While the city may be compact, it delivers a full spectrum of experiences – from temple visits and night markets to high-tech shopping and mountain escapes. Because of its accessibility and warmth, Taipei is often ranked as one of the most welcoming cities in Asia.
Night markets with iconic street food
Mountains and hot springs nearby
Friendly and easy to navigate
💡 Interesting Fact: Taipei 101, once the world’s tallest building, was designed to resemble a bamboo stalk and is engineered to withstand typhoons and earthquakes.
💡 Travel Tip: Head to Elephant Mountain for the best skyline shots.
14. Singapore
One of the cleanest and most efficient cities, Singapore is both modern and multicultural. Although it may be small in size, the city-state punches above its weight when it comes to innovation, cleanliness, and quality of life. Because of its diverse population, excellent infrastructure, and lush green spaces, it offers a seamless and enriching travel experience for everyone.
Green spaces and futuristic architecture
Award-winning hawker stalls
Iconic skyline and safe transit
💡 Interesting Fact: Singapore is home to over 300 parks and four nature reserves, making it one of the greenest cities in the world despite its urban density.
💡 Travel Tip: Use your MRT card for seamless, citywide access.
15. Seoul, South Korea
Seoul combines tradition and tech, history and hype. While it’s one of the most modern and wired cities in the world, it still holds deep roots in culture and heritage. Because of this contrast, Seoul appeals to both K-pop fans and history buffs alike.
Palaces and hanbok rentals
E-sports cafés and pop culture
Korean BBQ and late-night eats
💡 Interesting Fact: Seoul is home to five grand palaces, all originally built during the Joseon Dynasty – a reminder of the city's regal past amid its modern skyline.
💡 Travel Tip: Explore Bukchon Hanok Village to step back in time.
📌 Final Thoughts: Where Will You Go in 2025?
From Chiang Mai’s peaceful temples to Tokyo’s buzzing nightlife, the best cities in Asia for 2025 offer something for every type of traveler. While each city has its own rhythm, what unites them is the deep connection travelers felt during their visit. These destinations aren’t just popular – they’re loved, voted for by real travelers who’ve experienced them firsthand.
💡 Interesting Fact: The Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards gathered insights from nearly 180,000 global participants, making it one of the most comprehensive and democratic travel rankings available.
So whether you're into culture, cuisine, or city adventures, this list is your go-to guide for planning your next unforgettable trip.