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When you think of the most luxurious cities in the world, certain places immediately spring to mind. Whether it is their spectacular scenery, awe-inspiring architecture or cosmopolitan charm, or maybe even their reputation for world-class cuisine and haute couture, some cities are simply unparalleled in culture, character and beauty.

From the neon skyline of Tokyo to the vibrant streets of Rio de Janeiro to the endless adventures of Cape Town, our team of experienced travel specialists, many of whom have travelled extensively all over the world, have crafted a list of their top 11 most luxurious cities in the world where you can truly indulge in the finer things in life. Read on to find out where you should go on your next tailor-made luxury city break in 2025, 2026 and 2027.

Defined by its colourful streets, fun-loving locals and world-famous beaches, there is no seaside city quite like Rio de Janeiro.

If we had to describe Rio de Janeiro in a few words, we would say that it is one of the most vibrant and spirited cities in the world. Music and dance are the heartbeat of the city, and the streets come alive with the sounds of samba, funk and bossa nova, especially in the downtown Lapa area and during the widely popular Rio Carnival celebrations.

Beyond the city’s infamous ‘joie de vivre’, a concept perhaps created by the French but adopted by the inhabitants of Rio de Janeiro, a luxury city break to Rio promises an array of dazzling sight-seeing opportunities. Climb to the summit of Mount Corcovado to stand beside the iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer or hop on a cable-car ride at Sugarloaf Mountain, both of which promise sweeping views of the beautiful city below and the majestic Atlantic Ocean beyond. For some of the most interesting museums and galleries, you can also travel to the trendy neighbourhood of Santa Teresa.

No holiday to Rio de Janeiro would be complete without a trip to the famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema. From strolling along the boardwalk to sailing in the ocean’s warm waters, these golden shores are framed by some of the most spectacular natural scenery Brazil has to offer. With the locals surfing the waves or playing football on the beach, Rio’s beaches are ideal spots for soaking up the buzzing atmosphere that has placed Rio on our most luxurious cities in the world list.

With its stretch of sun-kissed beaches, string of gastronomic delights and wonderfully vibrant cosmopolitan culture, Cape Town has truly cemented itself as one of the most luxurious cities.

Each corner of the city promises a diverse array of experiences. In the north, you can embark on a boat ride to Robben Island, a place where Nelson Mandela spent a large part of his 27-year incarceration. Whereas in the south of the city, you are at the epicentre of adventure. Go paddle boarding around the waterfront, surf in the Indian Ocean waves at Muizenberg or make the trip to the Cape Peninsula to visit the protected African penguins of Boulders Beach and witness the scenic cliffs of Cape Point. No holiday to Cape Town would be complete without reaching the summit of Table Mountain, one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. Tackle the mountain on foot or jump on a cable-car ride to reach the mountain’s peak and witness the bustling city below. If you head to the eastern slope of Table Mountain on your luxury holiday to Cape Town, you will witness one of South Africa’s most beautiful natural spaces, the infamous Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.

Cape Town is only a short drive from the infamous valleys of Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl, also collectively known as the world-class Cape Winelands. For wine connoisseurs, a trip to the Winelands is an absolute must, as you can sample some of the finest wines South Africa has to offer, whilst taking in the broad valleys, towering mountains and architecture of the region.

With over 37 million inhabitants, Tokyo is one of the largest cities in the world. At every turn, you will be met with its infectious energy and an extraordinary array of sights, sounds and smells that are unlike any other luxury city holiday on our top ten list.

From its towering skyscrapers to its ancient temples, Tokyo is a city built on contrasts. Those who travel to the neon city will feel as though they have been transported into the future, whilst still being immersed in the traditions of ancient Japan. Explore the city’s vibrantly modern scene with a visit to the fashion hub of Shibuya, the shopper’s paradise of Ginza and the lively entertainment districts of Roppongi and Shinjuku. Akihabara is also a must-see for those who wish to get a taste of Japan’s love for manga and high-tech gadgets, and if you are in between the districts of Shibuya and Shinjuku, head to the colourful streets of Harajuku, which are full of delicious street food and chic boutiques.

For those looking to embrace the traditional world of Japan, the old downtown area of Asakusa is the place to start. Asakusa is home to the city’s oldest Buddhist temple, Senso-ji, and its spectacular Kaminarimon Gate. As you wander through the town’s narrow alleyways, you will gain an insight into what Tokyo was like before the economic boom of the 1970s and 1980s. For those who wish to escape the hustle and bustle of the city streets, visit one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens, Shinkuku Gyoen. Originally a residence of the Naito family in the Edo period, this public park becomes inundated with blooming pink and white flowers in the cherry blossom season.

For those looking to pair a high-end culinary adventure with a top luxury city break, look no further than Peru’s capital city of Lima.

Renowned as the gastronomic capital of Latin America, Lima is home to a string of award-winning restaurants that have earned global recognition. Drawing inspiration from the country’s Andean, European, Oriental and African heritage, traditional dishes such as the Peruvian ceviche and pisco cocktails have been transformed into a cutting-edge gastronomic experience. With some of the world’s top chefs such as Virgilio Martinez of Central and Gaston Acurio of Astrid y Gaston as well as incredible private culinary experiences like Penelope Alzamora, it is clear to us (and the world) that Lima’s food scene is nothing short of extraordinary.

However, beyond the infamous flavour combinations of Peru’s culinary world, Lima’s winding streets are home to an array of historical, architectural and cultural delights that absolutely must be seen. From the colonial architecture of the Plaza de Armas and the French-style buildings of Plaza San Martin to the city’s treasure trove of museums and bohemian neighbourhoods full of colourful streets, Lima is a luxury city holiday that harmoniously combines the old with the new. No trip to Lima would be complete without visiting the infamous Museo Larco, a museum which holds the largest and most important archaeological collection of Ancient Peru, and enjoying some of the best coffee in the city amidst the cobbled streets of Barranco.

Seamlessly blending the past with the present, Marrakech is at once a cultural treasure house and lively, bustling metropolis.

Known as the ‘Red City’ for the distinct reddish hue of its city walls, Marrakech bewitches all who enter through its ancient gates. Most come to lose themselves in the souks, an intricate web of twisted alleyways and hidden recesses that are alive with vibrant colours, aromatic scents and a symphony of sounds. Merchants will be waiting at every corner with brilliant displays of jewellery, carpets and frankincense that you will find hard to ignore, and the bargaining that follows is an essential ingredient in any souk experience!

When you finally emerge into the Jemaa el-Fnaa, the iconic square at the historic heart of the Medina, you will be met by jugglers, snake charmers and story tellers keen to share their unique skills with you. The square is ringed by open-air cafes, so you might prefer instead to watch the magical chaos of it all unfold before you with a refreshing glass or two of mint tea.

No visit to Marrakech is complete without taking a step back in time and exploring its imperial treasures. The imposing Koutoubia Mosque is not only the city’s tallest building, but also one of the finest examples of Almohad architecture, while the colourful mosaics of the Saadian Tombs and the grand courtyards and sunken gardens of El Badi Palace are the outstanding royal legacy of Marrakech’s glorious past.

Renowned for its beautifully rustic vineyards, spectacular golden beaches and deliciously fresh cuisine, Portugal is also home to two of the best luxury European city breaks: Porto and Lisbon.

With its historic charm, world-class dining and exceptional wine, Porto is a must for a luxury city break. Discover the high-end boutiques in the streets of Mouzinho and Flores, indulge in the Michelin-starred restaurants such as Antiqvvm overlooking the Duoro River and of course, sample an extensive portfolio of wines on a private wine tour at some of the best cellars in the city including the luxury five-star wine hotel of The Yeatman.

Built on a series of hills that overlook the Atlantic Ocean, the capital city of Lisbon is a haven for city escapes. Navigate the winding lanes, charming neighbourhoods and market squares aboard one of the numerous trams, which have become a beloved symbol of the city for both locals and tourists alike. If you travel to the maze of Alfama, each cobbled street will take you to a spectacular historical site such as the ancient castle of Castelo de Sao Jorge and the medieval Se Cathedral. As you wander through the city and truly immerse yourself in Lisbon’s rich cultural history, you will undoubtedly hear the traditionally melancholic Fado music seep through Lisbon’s colourful streets. The heart of the city, the Baixa district, is also worth a visit so you can see some of Lisbon’s most important landmarks including the riverfront Praca do Comercio and the lively Rossio Square. For those looking for high-end shopping and entertaining theatre shows, look no further than the chic Chiado neighbourhood. However, no luxury holiday to Lisbon is complete without a visit to Belem to see the architectural masterpieces of Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastry, and of course, visit Lisbon’s most famous custard tart bakery, Pasteis de Belem.

Cemented in history as the birthplace of the tango, a holiday to Buenos Aires promises a luxury adventure with beautiful architecture, irresistible cuisine, electric nightlife and a rich Argentinian culture seeping from every corner.

Known as the ‘Paris of South America’, the capital of Argentina has a certain European flair with its tree-lined avenues, Belle Epoque architecture and beautiful parks. Here, you can visit the vibrant Sunday antique market in the historic town of San Telmo, witness the awe-inspiring architectural marvel of the Teatro Colon and stroll along the narrow alleyways of Caminito in La Boca to see the colourful buildings and the characterful streets that are synonymous with Buenos Aires. No holiday to Buenos Aires is complete without a trip to the Recoleta district, home to the world’s most beautiful bookshop, Ateneo Grand Splendid, and the world-renowned cemetery which contains the graves of many notable Argentinians including Eva Peron. When the sun sets, you can immerse yourself in the legendary Latin American nightlife and join the locals dancing at a local milonga.

On a tailor-made holiday to Buenos Aires, you can also explore the sweeping pampas that surround the city. The pampas are steeped in Gaucho tradition, and when you wish to escape the city streets, you can stay in a traditional estancia and experience the history and culture of rural Argentina.

Blurring the lines between exotic city break and blissful seaside escape, the enchanting city of Muscat is ideal for those seeking the best of both worlds.

As one of the oldest cities in the Middle East, the ancient port of Muscat is renowned for its extraordinary natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and golden-sand beaches. Head for the waterfront of Old Muscat and the ceremonial Al Alam Palace, known more familiarly as the ‘Sultan’s Palace’, before exploring the historic forts of Al Jalali, Al Mirani and Mutrah, all perched high on the rocky coastline. You can then bargain with local vendors at the bustling Mutrah Souq, widely believed to be one of the oldest markets in Arabia.

Set right beside the Gulf of Oman, Muscat is unique in that it combines the buzz of a vibrant metropolis with the seclusion of golden sand beaches. Here, where the shimmering waters of the Arabian Sea meet the rugged desert landscapes of the country’s interior, you can relax, snorkel, dive and more at one of the city’s many world-class resorts.

Celebrated as one of the oldest cities in the world and rich in ancient ruins, notorious landmarks and exclusive five-star hotels, Athens is certainly one of the best luxury city breaks.

As you stroll along the winding mountainous paths synonymous with Athens, you will find some of the country’s (and the world’s) most cherished historical monuments. Climb the marble steps of the ancient citadel of Acropolis to see the temple of the goddess Athena, also known as the Parthenon, as well as the aptly named Temple of Olympian Zeus. You can also visit the Agora of Athens, once the bustling heart of the city, and the birthplace of drama, the Theatre of Dionysus. If you hike to the summit of Philopappou Hill, you will witness one of the most extraordinary views across the city.

However, beyond the city’s ancient relics, Athens is home to an evolving fine dining scene with Michelin-starred restaurants such as Spondi and streets full of high-end boutiques in the Kolonaki neighbourhood. If you wish to blend your luxury city break with an island getaway, Athens is perfectly situated for travelling to any number of different islands including Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, and the lesser known island of Paros. For those who do not want to travel far from the city, but are still looking for a holiday that has it all, you can drive to the vibrant seaside area of Athens Riviera and explore its picturesque marina and idyllic palm-fringed beaches.

Buzzing with an irresistible energy that inspires all who travel to the capital, Mexico City is an exciting holiday destination full of bucket list experiences.

From its lively street festivals and ancient ruins to its tranquil squares and towering high rises, Mexico City is a place of fascinating contrasts. In the city centre, Centro Historico, you can visit some of most famous sites such as the Palacio Nacional, Aztec Templo Mayor and the Zocalo Square. If you travel downtown, you will come across the chic Polanco district, which is a paradise for those with a taste for luxury shopping and world-class dining experiences; the Roma, renowned as one of Mexico City’s best neighbourhoods for foodies and a great place to drink a caballito (shot glass) of Tequila or Mezcal, and Coyacan, home of revered artists and figures including Frida Kahlo and Deigo Rivera.

However, one of the best things about Mexico City is its location. The city is the perfect base for day trips to the surrounding archaeological wonders such as the pyramids of Teotihuacan, the quaint churches and cobbled lanes of Taxco and the ‘City of Eternal Spring’, Cuernavaca. Just a couple of hours from the heart of Mexico City in the shadow of the snow-capped Popocatepetl volcano lies Puebla, one of the oldest colonial cities in South America, and an absolute must-see for all who plan a tailor-made holiday to Mexico City.

With its inspiring blend of eastern cultures, spectacular architecture, incredible shopping and irresistible cuisine, Singapore is certainly one of the best stopover destinations before embarking on a tailor-made holiday to Asia.

Renowned as a shopper’s paradise, your luxury city break to Singapore will undoubtedly include a visit to the grand streets of Orchard Road, Arab Street and Bali Lane, a trip to the busy shopping malls such as Tao Payoh or an adventure into the tiny alleyways of Haji Lane which are crammed with boutiques. You can also experience the Malay, Indian and Chinese influences in Singapore’s districts of Little India, Chinatown and Kampong Glamby before tasting some of the delicious local cuisine in the street food markets of Tiong Bahru or dine at one of the many world-class restaurants along the Singapore River from Marina Bay to Robertson’s Quay.

The city is committed to sustainable urban planning and green spaces, so you can wander through a 101-hectare garden in the heart of the business district, aptly named the Gardens of the Bay, and witness the world’s largest orchid display in the beautiful Botanic Gardens.

On our tailor-made holidays, you can pick and choose exactly what you want to do. To start planning your luxury holidays, honeymoons or family getaways, speak to our travel specialists on +44 (0) 2039 933538 or make an online enquiry.