The 25 Best Coastal Cities in the World
Using data from global market research firms and analyzing living conditions metrics, Chicago Line Cruises crunched the numbers on cities around the world in order to identify which by-the-water places stood out from the pack. Based on food, music, nature, architecture, and things that are just, well, truly unique, the results are in: These are the 25 best coastal cities in the world.
This article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveler.
Getty Images1/10Edinburgh, Scotland
Why we love it: Coastal Edinburgh is the second-most populated city in Scotland after Glasgow. As the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh is best known for its annual Fringe Festival, which is the largest international performing arts festival in the world. Hike up to Arthur's Seat, an extinct volcano, for the best views of the city, and visit Edinburgh Castle to see where the crown jewels are kept. However you set your itinerary, make sure to leave time to sample the city's burgeoning gin scene.
Getty Images/EyeEm2/10New Orleans, Louisiana
Why we love it: Famous for its laid-back culture and non-stop nightlife, New Orleans is called The Big Easy for a reason. Despite being best known for Mardi Gras, New Orleans has much to offer all year round: think some of the world's best jazz, the historic French Quarter, and Creole cuisine, which melds French, African, and American flavors. Getty
Getty Images/RooM RF3/10Venice, Italy
Why we love it: The world's preeminent floating city, Venice, built on more than 100 small islands in the Adriatic Sea, is actually the closest thing the world may have to a city existing on water. Hail a water taxi or gondola to wind through the city, and if you have time, get out of the historic center and head for the outer islands.
Getty Images4/10Bangkok, Thailand
Why we love it: With winding canals, floating markets, stunning Buddhist art and architecture, and some of the world's best street food, it's not wonder Bangkok makes the list. Lesser known attractions? Bangkok also has excellent cycling tours and—surprise!—golf courses. Wat Phra Kraew, a Buddhist temple in the Grand Palace, is the most popular of all temples in the city, and is regarded as the most sacred temple in all of Thailand.
Getty Images5/10Honolulu, Hawaii
Why we love it: Notable for its beaches, flora, and fauna, Honolulu is in the midst of a regional cuisine movement, and also plays host to the largest collection of Hawaiian and Polynesian artifacts in the world at the Bishop Museum. Even better? Temperatures here average the mid-80s, but rarely exceed the mid-90s.
Getty Images6/10Miami, Florida
Why we love it: The flashy star of Florida, Miami is called the Magic City for a reason. Residing at the southern tip of the Eastern Seaboard, Miami is popular for its beach life and for snorkeling, scuba, sailing, boating, and fishing. On land, its vibrant dining and nightlife scenes dominate most of the conversation, but the city is also an international arts hub.
Getty Images7/10Istanbul, Turkey
Why we love it: Despite its recent terrorist attacks, Istanbul will no doubt always be a popular destination. As the largest city in Europe, it straddles the continental divide, built on both sides of the Bosphorus Strait. Go here for the Blue Mosque, vibrant markets, and natural Turkish baths.
Getty Images8/10Perth, Australia
Why we love it: Often overlooked in favor of Sydney and Melbourne, Perth, the capital of Western Australia, has prime exposure to the wild Indian Ocean. As a result, the city has beautiful beaches, several national parks with protected wildlife areas, and botanical gardens. Perth also draws visitors for its annual music festivals (Stereosonic and Future Music) and growing reputation as one of the country's most underrated destinations.
Getty Images9/10Oslo, Norway
Why we love it: The capital of Nordic cool, Oslo is located on the southern coast of an inlet called Oslofjord. Here, the Viking Ship Museum actually has three viking ships, and multiple green spaces like Frogner Park help make it an amenable city for walking and picnicking. For an epic road trip, start in Oslo and end in Kirkenes, in the far northeast.
Getty Images10/10Dubai, U.A.E.
Why we love it: The only seven-star hotel in the world. Floating, underwater villas. The tallest buildings in the world. Is there anything Dubai can't do? One of the seven emirates in the United Arab Emirates, Dubai draws tourists for its shopping malls (they've got the biggest one of those, too) and futuristic architecture. Click here to see more of the world's best coastal cities.
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