Time Out knows what it’s doing when it comes to ranking cities. We make it our mission every year to produce a fresh, comprehensive roster of the most exciting places to be on the planet, as well as where is best to head for a boogie, a culture fix or a slap-up meal.
However, Resonance Consultancy also produces a detailed ranking annually, as well as one which centres around Europe, and the 2025 edition of that has just been published.
In collaboration with Ipsos, three major factors have been assessed. They are the liveability (based on factors like air quality, rent and green space), the lovability (drawn from nightlife, restaurants and social media interactions) and prosperity (poverty rates, education and GDP per capita).
Topping the list for the third year in a row? That would be London. The UK capital came second overall in liveability and lovability, and first overall for prosperity.
Recommended: These are the world’s most dynamic cities, according to a new Index.
‘London’s magnetic appeal continues to draw a global audience – from students and entrepreneurs to tourists and corporate titans,’ reads the report, ‘The city’s robust recovery post-pandemic is reflected in its strong international traveller spending, which in 2024 reached almost £16.3 billion and secured London the third-highest global position and the top spot in Europe.’
Check out the best parks, theatre shows, exhibitions and free things to do in London to kick things off, but no matter what you’re after, our sprawling page for the city will have whatever guide you need.
In second place is Paris, which the report describes as an ‘intoxicating’ city, and to help you get off on the right food with the French capital, Time Out Paris is bursting with guides on everything from chocolate shops and walking tours to museums, cheap eats and bistros.
Third place? That went to Berlin, which is a champion of ‘tolerance, cultural ambition and coveted talent’. Have a look at our favourite art galleries, markets, bars and clubs in the German capital.
These are Europe’s best cities, according to Resonance Consultancy
- London
- Paris
- Berlin
- Barcelona
- Rome
- Madrid
- Amsterdam
- Vienna
- Prague
- Stockholm
You can have a look at the full report here.
Did you see that a brand-new winter night train will travel from Paris to the Alps this year?
Plus: The easiest countries to relocate to on a working visa in 2025.
Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out Travel newsletter for all the latest travel news and best stuff happening across the world.