Cape Town voted one of world’s Top 10 Best Cities

No surprises for Capetonians (and South Africans abroad who head over every year) – Condé Nast Traveller’s 2023 Reader’s Choice Awards have voted Cape Town the fourth-best large city in the world, and seventh best city overall.

Over 520 000 readers submitted responses rating their global travel experiences… which saw South Africa’s Mother City rank highly in the category of cities with a population of over 500 000.

CNT said:

“On pristine beaches, penguins waddle about their business while leaping dolphins frame spectacular sunsets – and thrill-seekers head out on boats to come face-to-face with fearsome sharks. Away from the ocean, guests check into world-renowned hotels such as The Silo, the recognisable property where rooms feature contemporary African art and 360-degree city views. Table Mountain views are enjoyed over supper, especially during trips to Delaire Graff Estate for wine-swirling and impeccable tasting menus.”

Enver Duminy, CEO of Cape Town Tourism, expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing the city’s unique beauty and cultural appeal. The award boosts South Africa’s global profile and highlights Cape Town as an inclusive must-visit destination, with other top cities in the category including Singapore, Tokyo, Seoul and Sydney.

Duminy said: “It also reaffirms the hard work we’ve been doing at Cape Town Tourism to ensure our beloved city remains an inclusive must-visit destination on the global stage. This recognition is not just a win for Cape Town but for South Africa, boosting our profile on the world map and serving as a beacon for tourists contemplating their next travel destination.”  

With its unparalleled legacy as the travel industry’s longest-running and most prestigious accolades, the Reader’s Choice Awards remain the ultimate symbol and acknowledgement of excellence within the travel industry.

The 2023 Reader’s Choice Awards are published on Condé Nast Traveller’s website and celebrated in the November 2023 issue.

Friendliest countries in the world

Surprisingly, no South African cities were voted in the Top 10 Friendliest Cities in the World… although four cities in Canada – all popular with South African expats – made the Top 5: Calgary, Edmonton, Victoria and Quebec City!

South Africa itself also did not make it into the Top 10 list of Friendliest countries in the world (when we all know SA’s warm hospitality is the world’s BEST!)

Two countries close to us did though. Namibia was voted third most friendly and Botswana the fourth friendliest country in the world.