151 Most Beautiful Cities in the World, #70 – #66

The 151 Most Beautiful Cities in the World list brings you the best info on the most stunning places one can visit.

70. Valletta, Malta

Just start with St. John’s Co-Cathedral, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture adorned with intricate marble and gilt decorations. Inside, visitors can marvel at Caravaggio’s famous painting “The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist.”

The Grandmaster’s Palace, a majestic 16th-century building, showcases the opulence of the Knights of St. John. Its State Rooms and Armory are open to the public, displaying priceless art, armor, and artifacts from Malta’s past.

Valletta’s fortifications are a sight to behold, with impressive bastions and walls that offer breathtaking views of the city and the Grand Harbour. The Upper Barrakka Gardens is a popular spot to enjoy these panoramic vistas.

The Malta National Museum of Archaeology provides insights into the island’s prehistoric past, housing an extensive collection of artifacts, including the famous “Sleeping Lady” figurine.

Apart from its historic sites, Valletta boasts modern attractions like the Valletta Waterfront, a picturesque promenade lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, offering a charming blend of past and present.

Photo Credit to Joseph Buhagiar, Micaela Parente, Reuben Farrugia

69. Tallinn, Estonia

The heart of Tallinn is its UNESCO-listed Old Town, one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. Its cobblestone streets, medieval walls, and well-preserved merchant houses create a picturesque atmosphere that transports visitors back in time.

One of the most iconic landmarks is Toompea Castle, perched atop a limestone hill and now housing Estonia’s Parliament. Its viewing platforms provide stunning panoramic views of the city.

The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, with its onion domes and intricate Orthodox architecture, is a sight to behold and represents the city’s Russian influence.

The Town Hall Square (Raekoja plats) is a lively hub surrounded by colorful merchant houses, housing cafes, restaurants, and shops. The Gothic Town Hall itself is an architectural masterpiece.

The Kadriorg Palace, a splendid Baroque palace surrounded by manicured gardens, was built by Peter the Great for his wife, Catherine I, and now houses the Kadriorg Art Museum.

For a unique experience, head to the KUMU Art Museum, an architectural marvel itself, showcasing Estonian art from the 18th century to the present day.

Photo Credit to Karson, Roman Wimmers, and Frederic Koberl

68. Porto, Portugal

Porto is gorgeous and one of its most iconic landmarks is the Dom Luís I Bridge, an impressive iron structure spanning the Douro River. Its double-deck design provides pedestrians with breathtaking views of Porto’s riverside and the picturesque Ribeira district.

The Ribeira itself is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed neighborhood, with its narrow, winding streets, colorful buildings, and lively atmosphere. The São Bento Railway Station is another architectural gem, adorned with intricate azulejo tiles depicting Portugal’s historical events.

Porto’s most famous feature is the Port wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia, located across the river. These historic cellars offer tours and tastings of the world-renowned Port wine, an integral part of Porto’s cultural heritage.

The Clérigos Tower stands tall over the city’s skyline, providing panoramic views of Porto’s rooftops and beyond. Nearby, the Clérigos Church is an ornate Baroque masterpiece worth exploring.

For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Palácio da Bolsa, the former stock exchange, is a must. Its lavish interiors, including the Arabian Room, showcase the city’s opulence during the 19th century.

Lastly, the Livraria Lello is a bookstore straight out of a fairy tale, with its stunning Art Nouveau design and magical ambiance, which is said to have inspired J.K. Rowling’s writing when she lived in Porto.

Photo Credit Matt Roskovec, Daniel Sessler, and Jure Tufekcic

67. Ljubljana, Slovenia

The city’s most famous landmark is the Ljubljana Castle, perched on a hill overlooking the Old Town. This medieval fortress offers stunning views of the city and hosts cultural events and exhibitions.

The Triple Bridge is an architectural marvel, connecting the historical part of Ljubljana with the modern city center. It consists of three separate bridges, with the central one designed by the renowned architect Jože Plečnik, who left a significant mark on the city’s architecture.

Speaking of Plečnik’s work, the Plečnik House is another must-visit attraction. It was the architect’s home and now serves as a museum, providing insight into his life and creative genius.

The Old Town itself is a charming maze of cobbled streets, adorned with colorful buildings, cozy cafes, and historic squares like Prešeren Square, with the Franciscan Church of the Annunciation as its centerpiece.

The Dragon Bridge, adorned with imposing dragon statues, is an iconic symbol of Ljubljana and an engineering marvel from the early 20th century.

For nature lovers, Tivoli Park offers a serene escape with lush greenery, walking paths, and beautiful fountains.

Photo Credit to Hasmik Ghazaryan Olsen, Greenvalley, and Eugene Kuznetsov

66. Doha, Qatar

Doha, the capital city of Qatar, is a modern metropolis that showcases a fascinating blend of traditional Arabian heritage and cutting-edge architecture. One place to start is the Aspire Tower, shaped like a torch. It is not only an architectural marvel but also hosts sporting events and offers panoramic views from its observation deck.

The Museum of Islamic Art is a masterpiece in itself, designed by I.M. Pei, and houses an extensive collection of Islamic art spanning centuries and diverse regions.

The historic Souq Waqif is a vibrant and bustling market where visitors can immerse themselves in Qatari culture, explore traditional shops, and indulge in local cuisine.

For lovers of modern architecture, the futuristic skyscrapers of the West Bay skyline provide a dazzling display of contemporary design. The remarkable silhouette of the Tornado Tower and the twisted structure of the Burj Qatar are among the highlights.

The Katara Cultural Village is a cultural hub that celebrates art, music, theater, and literature, offering visitors a glimpse of Qatar’s artistic expression.

As well, the desert landscape surrounding Doha is a natural feature that captivates travelers with its stunning sand dunes and unique terrain. Desert safaris, camel rides, and camping under the stars are popular activities for those seeking an authentic Arabian adventure.