CONGRATULATIONS – Cape Town ranked as the world’s most beautiful city by Time Out in 2026 survey!
The City’s Mayco Member for Economic Growth, James Vos, said he welcomed the international recognition because it was not only about the accolade but would also create another opportunity for growth for visitors and for job creation.
“Cape Town’s recognition as the world’s most beautiful city for 2026 is a wonderful endorsement of what we have long known: our city is one of the world’s most remarkable destinations,” Vos said.
“While this accolade celebrates our breathtaking natural beauty, it is about far more than spectacular scenery. Every international visitor who chooses Cape Town supports local businesses, creates opportunities for entrepreneurs, and helps sustain jobs across our tourism value chain.”
Vos shared that today, more than 106,000 people work in Cape Town’s tourism sector, representing around 7% of all jobs in our city. “I want to see that number continue to grow as my ultimate aspiration is clear: one tourism-related job in every household across Cape Town,” he added.
“That is why we remain relentlessly focused on growing the visitor economy through targeted destination marketing, expanding air access, attracting more cruise ships and conferences, and ensuring our campaigns convert global interest into real bookings, real spending, and real economic opportunities for residents.
“Awards such as this place Cape Town firmly in the global spotlight. They strengthen our destination brand, inspire more people to visit, and support the work we are doing with our tourism partners to attract more visitors, unlock investment, and create sustainable employment.
“I also want to thank the people of Cape Town because it’s your warmth, your cultures, your cuisines, and your communities that make this city so special.
“Cape Town’s beauty may capture the world’s attention, but the greatest reward will always be the opportunities it creates for the people who live here.”
WHAT: World’s Most Beautiful City
WHERE: Cape Town
WHEN: 2026
INFO: See Time Out Cape Town tops World’s Most Beautiful Cities list for 2026 Written by Senior Editor, Time Out South Africa
See Time Out the world’s 10 most beautiful cities, according to locals
Cape Town, South Africa – 86%
Edinburgh, United Kingdom – 84%
Sydney, Australia – 78%
Chicago, United States – 77%
Lisbon, Portugal – 74%
Paris, France – 68%
Stockholm, Sweden – 68%
Porto, Portugal – 67%
Medellín, Colombia – 66%
Riga, Latvia – 65%
