There’s been a lot of debate over the years regarding what constitutes as a great city. For us at Matthew Rian, a great city has to encapsulate a culture, design and heritage that represent the country; an abundance of nature or wildlife, as well as a thriving nightlife. Here are our top 10 picks for 2025

1 – Vatican City

The 2025 Jubilee is a jubilee in the Catholic Church being celebrated in the year 2025. It was announced by Pope John Paul II at the end of the Great Jubilee. The papal bull proclaiming the Jubilee is "Spes non confundit" (Latin for "Hope does not disappoint"). It began on Christmas Eve (24 December) 2024 and will continue until Epiphany (6 January) 2026. Join millions of pilgrims and admire the stunning art work of Da Vinci while you’re at it.

2 – Cape Town

With stunning sceneries, excellent restaurants, an abundance of wildlife and a friendly culture, Cape Town has always been a great city that caters to a plethora of interests and activities for all ages. From safaris to wineries, Cape Town is a stone’s throw away to everything your heart desires.

3 – Cairo

Cairo welcomed the Grand Egyptian Museum in 2024 and it’s looking to open their new wing this year. With countless artefacts from different eras of the Pharoah ages, this museum will sure ignite the Egyptologist in you and have you cruising down the Nile for a proper marvel at this ancient civilisation.

4 – Panama City

As the richest city in Central America, Panama City combines colonial charm alongside modern developments. Check out the rainforests and ruins in the city, and visit the modern-day engineering wonder that is the Panama Canal. Venture out to the many island paradises outside the city if you have time too!

5 – Riyadh

With Saudi Arabia’s big push towards tourism, regions such as AlUla has quickly became firm favourite destinations among luxury travellers. While AlUla’s stunning World Heritage Sites are definite draws, one shouldn’t count out the emergence of Riyadh, the country’s capital. With its futuristic views, traditional hospitality and luxury experiences, this metropolis is poised and ready to welcome you with open arms.

6  – Porto

Portugal has steadily become one of the most visited countries in Europe, with Porto coming out on top amongst travellers looking for all things food, culture and most importantly, wine. Take a trip to Porto’s many vineyards and cellars, and sample the best cuisine Portugal has to offer.

7 – Osaka

As the host city of the World Expo, Osaka will transform into a thriving centre as if the entire city were a theme park, where the old and new are intricately interwoven. And if you’re famished from all the walking, visit one of at least 2,500 ramen joints in the heart of the city.

8 – New Orleans

Home to the famous Mardi Gras parade, New Orleans is where jazz lovers flock to the city’s famous French Quarter for a spot of music and bourbon, with Jazz Fest the highlight of the year. With its decorated history and culture, New Orleans is definitely the hidden gem of the USA.

9  –  London

This bustling metropolis has long been serving timeless music, art and culture. While Oasis is touring the world this year, there’s no bigger event than their Wembley Arena comeback concert, making London the best place to experience these Britpop legends.

10 – Suzhou

With its stunning waterways intertwining within the city’s cultural heart, Suzhou has long been a mecca for poets and artists looking for inspirations over the centuries. Only a stone throw from Shanghai, Suzhou’s continues to shine bright, especially with President Xi’s recent comment on the city’s exciting future.