151 Most Beautiful Cities in the World, #80 – #76

If you didn’t already know, there’s this thing from AWT called the MegaLists Series, here we continue our list of the 151 Most Beautiful Cities in the World.

80. Essaouira, Morocco

Essaouira is a beautiful, laid-back city located on Morocco’s Atlantic coast. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to a rich cultural heritage, stunning beaches, museums, and historic sites.

The best scenario in Essaouira is the spectacular view of the old city and the harbor. The laid-back atmosphere of the city is perfect for those who want to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

There are numerous attractions and things to see in Essaouira, such as the maze of narrow streets in the Medina, the vibrant fish market, and the old city walls. The colorful murals and street art add to the city’s charm. One of the most iconic sites is the Skala de la Ville, a set of ramparts that were built to protect the city from attacks from the sea.

The historical places in Essaouira are not to be missed, such as the various mosques and religious buildings, including the 18th-century Essaouira Synagogue and the Portuguese-built forts.

Photo Credit to Peter Schulz, Regis Ibis, Zazariae Daoui, and Steven Feldman

79. Stone Town, Zanzibar, Tanzania

Stone Town, located on the Tanzanian island of Zanzibar, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most beautiful and historic places in East Africa. Its winding streets, vibrant markets, and Arab and Indian-influenced architecture make it one of the most intriguing destinations in the region.

The most beautiful places in Stone Town are the various historic buildings, such as the House of Wonders, also known as the Beit al Ajaib, then the Palace Museum, and the Old Fort. The narrow alleyways and colorful markets are also a sight to behold, with spices, fruits, and colorful fabrics being sold at every corner.

Some of the most popular attractions in Stone Town include the Zanzibar Butterfly Centre, the Mbweni Ruins, and the Old Dispensary. The nearby Prison Island, known for its giant tortoises, is also a must-see destination.

For history buffs, there are numerous sites and historical places to explore, such as the former slave market, the Hamamni Persian Baths, and the Livingstone House.

Photo Credit to Muahammad Mahdi Karim, Rohan Reddy, and 4758892

78. Swakopmund, Namibia

Swakopmund, located on the coast of Namibia, is a picturesque town with stunning natural beauty, diverse cultures, and a rich history. Its unique location, surrounded by desert and ocean, makes it one of the most beautiful places in Africa.

One of the most popular attractions in Swakopmund is the Namib Desert, where visitors can go on guided tours and witness the towering sand dunes of Sossusvlei – the highest in the world. Another popular outdoor destination is the Skeleton Coast National Park, which is full of wildlife and offers stunning views of the ocean, and just happens to be the largest ship cemetery in the world.

Swakopmund is also home to a number of historical places and sites, including the Swakopmund Lighthouse, the Hohenzollern Building, and the Woermannhaus. The town’s architecture, influenced by German and Art Nouveau styles, is also a sight to behold.

Other popular attractions in Swakopmund include the National Marine Aquarium, the Kristall Galerie, and the Mola-Mola Safaris.

Photo Credit to Grant Durr, Birger Strahl, and Olga Ernst

77. Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

Old San Juan, the historic district of Puerto Rico’s capital city, is a vibrant and colorful destination that boasts some of the most beautiful sites, attractions, and historical places in all the Caribbean. With its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful colonial-style buildings, and beautiful views of the sea, Old San Juan offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.

One of the most popular attractions in Old San Juan is the imposing fortifications- El Morro and San Cristobal – built to protect against pirates and invaders. Also worth visiting are the San Juan Cathedral, the San Juan Gate, and the Plaza de Armas.

Another beautiful destination in Old San Juan is the Paseo de la Princesa, a scenic promenade along the waterfront that is filled with street vendors, musicians, and local artists.

For those interested in Puerto Rico’s art and history, there are a number of museums and galleries to visit, such as the Museum of the Americas, the Museum of San Juan, and the Contemporary Art Museum.

Photo Credit to Jennifer Chen, Xixi Zhou, and jbuck0020

76. Busan, South Korea

Busan is a bustling port city located on the southeastern coast of South Korea. With its stunning natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern attractions, Busan is a destination that has something for everyone.

One of the most beautiful destinations in Busan is Haeundae Beach, a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. Another must-see is the famous Busan Tower, which offers incredible panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

For those interested in history and culture, Busan has a number of sites and attractions to visit such as the Beomeosa Temple, the UN Memorial Cemetery, and the Gamcheon Culture Village with its colorful and quirky houses.

Busan is also a food-lover’s paradise, and visitors should be sure to try some of the city’s famous dishes such as sashimi, seafood pancakes, and pork intestines. Additionally, the Jagalchi Fish Market is the perfect place to sample a variety of fresh seafood.