Jaipur beats Florence: The top 5 cities tourists are flocking to in 2025

Turns out, 2025 is the year travellers are looking beyond the usual suspects. A latest survey has thrown up some fascinating choices for the best cities in the world and not in a brochure kind of way. These are places people want to return to, not just visit. The biggest surprise? The pink city of Jaipur in India, has quietly slipped into the top five, ahead of cities like Florence and Kyoto. Jaipur, long known to Indian tourists, is now officially on the everyone’s radar. 

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

You’d think this little Mexican city would’ve peaked by now. But no, it keeps finding ways to charm. The streets are cobbled, colourful buildings, and the whole place runs on a kind of creative undercurrent. There is a lot of art, boutique hotels, and a surprisingly sophisticated food scene.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai is the place where time slows down without asking. There’s no mad rush here. Just quiet temples, mountain air, and cafes where you can sit for hours and not be bothered. Touristy? Definitely. But still soulful.

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo is the place to be. It's a city that knows exactly who it is. Everything is beautiful in its own weird way, from vending machines from 2070 that sell spill proof pudding to tranquil neighbourhoods tucked behind neon chaos. Everyone wants to go back for the bits they missed.

Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is loud, gritty, and alive in a way very few cities can be. It never pretends to be anything else. You’ll get stuck in traffic, sweat through your clothes, and still fall for it, probably at a night market with a plate of something spicy and perfect.

Jaipur, India

Now this one’s interesting. Jaipur, often dismissed as just another wedding destination, is finally getting its due. But the city’s not just about forts and palaces anymore. Think independent fashion labels, modern art, and some of the best-designed hotels in the country. It’s messy in parts, sure. But it’s got character. And that counts for more than a well-behaved skyline.