To curate the list, TimeOut evaluated neighbourhoods on the basis of several criteria: culture, community, liveability, nightlife, food & drink, street life, and more.

Nowadays, global cities are not known solely by their most famous landmarks or tourist hotspots. Instead, wanderers increasingly seek the hidden veins of urban life: neighbourhoods pulsing with creativity, community, grit, and aspiration. Time Out’s latest list of the “coolest neighbourhoods in the world” captures that impulse, offering a curated guide to the places where culture, everyday life and youthful energy collide. You live in their moods for a few hours, letting their local cafes, murals, underground bars or second-hand shops seep under your skin. They’re not always polished; often, they’re still in flux. It’s precisely for that reason they feel electric.

How The List Was Compiled

The list of the 39 “Coolest Neighbourhoods in the World in 2025″ was curated by insiders. The methodology is rooted in the network of Time Out writers and editors across dozens of cities, each nominating the “vibiest district” in their home town. These nominations were then judged across several criteria: culture, community, liveability, nightlife, food & drink, street life, and a sense of “nowness”. In other words, a neighbourhood scores well not because it’s already on every tourist map, but because it has momentum: independent shops thriving, locals creating new spaces, artists or musicians pushing boundaries, and a street-level life that feels more alive than polished.

The Top 10 Coolest Neighbourhoods In The World For 2025, As Per TimeOut

1. Jimbocho, Tokyo

Jimbocho, once known as Tokyo’s book district, remains a bibliophile’s dream with around 130 second-hand bookstores. But it’s also evolving: tucked between its quiet low-rise streets are new music venues, indie cafés, and curry houses that layer in youthful energy.

2. Borgerhout, Antwerp

Often overlooked by tourists in favour of Antwerp’s historic core, Borgerhout is beloved by locals for its multicultural mix and DIY spirit. Turkish and Moroccan shops mingle with artist-run galleries, community labs turning parking spots into mini-parks, and a long communal table event that annually bridges religious celebrations.

3. Barra Funda, Sao Paulo

Barra Funda is a striking example of urban transformation: old warehouses and industrial facades are being repurposed as art studios, galleries, cafes and nightlife venues. It’s where Sao Paulo’s subterranean creative scene pulses, bridging raw urban texture with refined new culture.

4. Camberwell, London

Camberwell perfectly encapsulates southeast London’s creative spirit in a compact form. It combines community life, green pockets, and a booming food scene: Camberwell Church Street alone hosts Kurdish, Lebanese, gastropub, and Xinjiang offerings. Add in indie art venues and record shops, and you have a microcosm of London’s evolving edges.

5. Avondale, Chicago

As Logan Square gentrified, Chicago’s arts and locals uprooted to places like Avondale. The neighbourhood retains its red-brick industrial bones and a working-class grit, enriched now by wine bars, specialty markets, retro bowling alleys and music venues. It’s a district in flux, a mix of old and new.

6. Mullae-dong, Seoul

Mullae-dong retains echoes of its heavy-industry past, such as steel workshops and factories. Now, those same structures host design studios, cafés, galleries and nightbars. The contrast between raw industrial architecture and contemporary creative use makes it one of Seoul’s most atmospheric enclaves.

7. Menilmontant, Paris

Menilmontant retains a bohemian spirit that resists Paris’s usual glamour. It’s built from cobbled streets, working-class history, street art, budget bars, activist bookstores, and a quietly thriving gastronomic side. You won’t find grand museums here. But you’ll feel Paris’s heartbeat in its smaller, restless corners.

8. Nakatsu, Osaka

Nakatsu feels like a time capsule: narrow alleys, mom-and-pop shops, wooden houses and ancient shrines, all nestled close to Osaka’s modern towers. Yet it’s also a site of renewal. For instance, you can find boutiques, experimental restaurants under train tracks, fusion cafes and vibrant diversity.

9. Vallila, Helsinki

Vallila was once a district for tram drivers and factory workers; now it’s reinvented itself with bars, underground music scenes, pastel wood houses and charming alleyways. Compared to its noisier neighbour, Kallio, Vallila feels quietly intense, romantic, gritty and full of surprises.

10. Labone, Accra

Once a quiet residential pocket, Labone has transformed into Accra’s creative magnet for expats, artists and local professionals. Galleries, wine bars, new restaurants, dance clubs and cultural institutions like Limbo have turned this mango-tree suburb into a buzzing micro-scene.

Paris once again wears the crown as the world’s most visited city for the fourth consecutive year, followed closely by Madrid and Tokyo, underscoring how travel is becoming increasingly global.

With travel booming more than ever, Euromonitor’s annual report reveals the world’s top ten destinations that travelers are flocking to, representing the globally growing appetite for hidden gems, new adventures, and culturally rich experiences.

According to Euromonitor International’s annual report, Europe continues to dominate this year’s top ten world’s best destinations index with six cities, while Asia leads with two.

Top 10 Best Cities in the World

From Europe’s timeless charms to Asia’s bustling metropolises, these destinations showcase a rich blend of history, culture, art, architecture, and culinary delights alongside modern innovations that attract travelers.

1. Paris, France- Europe

The City of Lights, Paris, tops the chart as the most visited city in the world for the fourth consecutive time.

The French capital offers a unique blend of history, culture, art, and romance. The Eiffel Tower dazzles the visitors day and night. The Louvre Museum is home to artistic masterpieces like the Mona Lisa painting. Charming cafes line the cobblestone streets of the bohemian neighborhood of Montmartre, serving pastries and chocolates.

Champs Élysées avenues offer a luxury shopping experience that sets worldwide trends. Capture the soaring skyline of Paris from the top of the Arc de Triomphe. A scenic boat tour on the Seine offers a unique perspective of Parisian cultural tapestries.

2. Madrid, Spain- Europe

Spain’s passionate capital retains second rank on the best cities list by Euromonitor for its irresistible blend of history, nightlife, and open-air plazas.

Visitors are drawn to Madrid’s golden triangle of museums, such as the Prado and Reine Sofía museums, featuring diverse art collections by renowned artists, including Goya, Picasso, and Dali.

A walk through the medieval streets of Plaza Mayor and the Gran Via offers an experience of old charm, featuring beautiful architectural marvels.

Madrid’s tapas bars and food markets deliver authentic European flavors, from jamón iberico to churros dipped in hot chocolate.

3. Tokyo, Japan- Asia

Tokyo is an ultimate blend of futuristic and traditional landscapes. On one corner, you will find ancient temples, shrines, and centuries-old tea houses. Meanwhile, a few steps away, neon billboards light up skyscrapers straight out of a sci-fi movie.

Ranked third on the best cities list, Tokyo surprises visitors at every turn. Food lovers lose themselves on sushi counters and ramen shops at Michelin-starred restaurants and quirky themed cafes. Tech minds and anime fans find the magic of manga and electronic culture at Akhibara Electric Town and the Ghibli Museum.

The green oasis of Shinjuku and Hamarikyu gardens offers a glimpse into Tokyo’s rich historic past as Edo, showcasing both natural and cultural significance.

4. Rome, Italy- Europe

Ranked fourth among the best cities to explore, the Eternal City of Rome attracts travelers with its timeless beauty and layered history.

The Colosseum echoes with battles of gladiators from the past. The Vatican City draws pilgrims and history lovers alike. Slate your visit to Rome again as you throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain. Admire the Baroque square, Piazza Navona, featuring ornate fountains, including the famous Bernini’s Four Rivers’ Fountain, and traditional eateries.

Borghese Gallery and Gardens, encompassing Italian to English-style landscapes, features an impressive collection of art by several globally-renowned artists, including Bernini, Rafael, and numerous Venetian artists.

The narrow, cobblestone streets of bohemian quarters like Trastevere bustle with ivy-covered buildings, piazzas, and local bars.

5. Milan, Italy- Europe

Milan, best known as Italy’s design and fashion hub, ranks among the top five as Europe’s most visited city by travelers who enjoy an eclectic mix of old and new.

Here, towering skyscrapers share the skyline with historic sites like the Duomo Gothic Cathedral and Leonardo Da Vinci’s The Last Supper at Santa Maria delle Grazie church.

The fashionistas can browse through the most exclusive and luxurious designer brands’ boutiques, enriching the Fashion Quadrangle shopping area.

Witness the beauty of the 16th-century Sistine Chapel, celebrated for its well-preserved biblical frescoes and murals.

The charming neighborhoods of Brera and the Navigli districts offer a perfect evening escape to learn about the city’s rich history. Partake in Aperitivo culture, where drinks are served with delicious snacks.

6. New York, United States of America

New York City, the Big Apple, is the world’s stage where travelers flock to experience its fast-paced creativity and diversity.

From the trendy streets of Brooklyn to the high-rise glamour of Manhattan, the iconic landmarks keep visitors coming back for more.

The Met, one of the world’s largest art museums, entices artistic souls to explore the creative side of New York, housing ancient to modern-day artifacts. While Times Square pulses with energy with its enormous billboards, exotic shops, and theaters.

A walk across the Brooklyn Bridge offers sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline. Dive deeper into the city’s artistic scenes at the trendy neighborhood of Williamsburg, dotted with flea markets and independent shops.

Yankee Stadium draws football fans to the Bronx to witness America’s football journey. Staten Island lures nature and history lovers to its beautiful collections of gardens, museums, and historical buildings.

7. Amsterdam, Netherlands- Europe

Amsterdam, another European laid-back gem, ranks seventh on the global list of the best cities to explore. The city’s canals, lined with quaint houses, give a postcard-perfect setting intertwined with rich history and vibrant art scenes.

From world-class museums, including Anne Frank House and Van Gogh Museum, to beer tastings at Heineken’s old breweries, Amsterdam invites history and art lovers, while offering a liberal nightlife experience.

Amsterdam is recognized as one of the world’s most cycling-friendly cities to explore its neighborhoods, from the historic Jordaan district to the artistic town of Noord.

For an immersive local-like experience, Amsterdam is home to the world’s only floating flower market and the traditional Dutch eateries, serving local food like stroopwafels and herring.

8. Sidney, Australia

Sydney, situated on a coastline where the Pacific Ocean meets the land, is the second-largest Australian city, ranking among the top ten as the best cities to visit.

The sun-soaked city attracts visitors with its stunning harbor and laid-back lifestyle. The Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge dominate the city’s skyline, offering more than pretty views.

Sydney balances urban energy with natural beauty. The coastal beaches like Bondi and Bronte attract adventurers and sunbathers alike to their secluded beaches and ocean pools to surf, swim, and relax. The Royal Botanic Gardens offers a peaceful retreat among the diverse flora.

The multi-cultural landscape of Chatswood suburbs reflects Australia’s diversity, inviting foodies and fun lovers with its authentic Asian culinary and vibrant street art scenes.

9. Singapore- Southeast Asia

Singapore, a compact island city-state in Southeast Asia, ranks among the world’s top ten destinations, owing to its modern innovations and cultural depth, blending effortlessly together.

Singapore’s Changi Airport, with its indoor waterfall and entertainment complexes, attracts visitors to see its magnificence for themselves. The island’s skyline glitters with futuristic structures such as Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay.

Whereas the charming neighborhoods like Little India and Chinatown offer an immersive walk into the nation’s deep-rooted history and diverse traditions.

A night safari in Mandia National Reserve draws wildlife photographers and enthusiasts to explore the unique nocturnal animals that come alive at night. Fort Canning Park blends history with nature, featuring colonial landmarks, ancient relics, and natural trails.

Food is a huge draw here. Hawker centers, lined with sophisticated food stalls, serve quintessential dishes, such as Hainanese chicken rice and laksa, reflecting Singaporean culinary richness.

10. Barcelona, Spain- Europe

Barcelona takes the final spot on the top ten list of the world’s best cities with its rich history, unique architecture, and Mediterranean beach vibes.

From Antoni Gaudí’s whimsical architectural marvels to the labyrinthine streets of the Gothic Quarter and tapas culinary scenes, Barcelona offers unique experiences to all kinds of travelers.

Bottom Line

While the European cities continue to dominate the best cities list, Asia and beyond are gaining a large number of visitors from all around the world.

From Paris’ romance to Tokyo’s futuristic desires, each place inspires visitors with its culture, infrastructure, and unique experiences, representing how travel is becoming more global than ever.

These are 6 tiny countries that you need to visit if you love travelling to offbeat destinations.

Small in size but big on charm, these countries offer stunning scenery, unique culture, and a chance to explore in just a few days.

Andorra: A haven for skiers and hikers in the Pyrenees, plus duty free shopping for a budget friendly splurge.

Liechtenstein: Nestled between Switzerland and Austria, this alpine gem is perfect for hiking, skiing, and castle spotting.

Malta: Mediterranean island nation with ancient temples, crystal clear waters, and a mix of European and Arabic influences.

Monaco: Famous for its glamorous casinos, yacht lined harbour, and Formula 1 Grand Prix, a luxury traveller’s dream.

San Marino: One of the world’s oldest republics, with medieval towers, cobblestone streets, and breath taking hilltop views.

Seychelles: A tropical paradise with white sand beaches, coral reefs, and lush nature reserves perfect for relaxation.

The Caribbean, with its turquoise waters, sunlit beaches, and vibrant cultures, is the perfect escape. Each island located here offers unique charms; blending history, flavours, and warm hospitality. These islands are a paradise for adventure, relaxation, and immersive experiences.

Saint Lucia

A volcanic island located in the eastern Caribbean, surrounded by mountain terrains, lush greenery, and pristine beaches. Saint Lucia has a highest point called Mount Gimie as well as the most famous landmark here, the two mountainous volcanic plugs called the Pitons. The island offers diverse activities such as hiking in Edmund Rainforest, snorkelling and diving in coral reefs, and exploring historic sites like Pigeon Island National Park. Its blend of luxury resorts, natural adventure, cultural festivals, and warm tropical weather makes it one of the most romantic and adventurous Caribbean destinations.

Antigua and Barbuda

The white sand shores, calm waters, and vibrant coral reefs of Antigua make it perfect for snorkelling and water sports, while Barbuda offers a tranquil experience with secluded beaches such as Princess Diana Beach and notable wildlife sanctuaries. The islands possess rich colonial history, charming towns, and friendly local culture. Both of these areas are quite lively and are also perfect natural spots for families and nature enthusiasts.

Turks and Caicos

The Turks and Caicos Islands are located in the Lucayan Archipelago of the Atlantic Ocean and northern West Indies. The islands here have turquoise waters and white sand beaches such as Grace Bay Beach. The beaches here have a great marine environment which greatly attracts tourists. These islands are unique for their extensive coral reefs, making them a premier diving and snorkelling destination.

Barbados

Barbados is an island in the Caribbean located in the Atlantic Ocean and has been inhabited by the Kalinago people since the 13th century. Barbados has varied beaches, from tranquil west coast beaches ideal for families and swimming to more surf-friendly beaches on the east coast. This place also hosts four species of nesting turtles and the second-largest hawksbill turtle-breeding population in the Caribbean, along with a wide range of attractions that make it a must-visit for all kinds of travellers.

Grenada

Grenada is an island country of the West Indies in the eastern Caribbean Sea. Known as the “Spice Isle,” Grenada is famous for aromatic nutmeg, cinnamon, and clove plantations, with a rich agricultural heritage. The island features lush rainforests, stunning waterfalls, and volcanic beaches with black and white sands. There is an underwater park here near Moliniere Bay which attracts divers and snorkelers alike and also offers a more peaceful escape from the crowded areas.