Three Spanish Cities Named Among Time Out’s Best Cities in the World for 2026

The British magazine Time Out has published its annual ranking of the world’s best cities. In 2026, three Spanish cities have made the list.

Madrid (19th), Valencia (20th), and Bilbao (27th) all secured places in the ranking. The list was compiled based on a survey of more than 24,000 residents across 150 cities, alongside expert assessments. Factors considered included culture, gastronomy, quality of life, transport, and overall community happiness.

The Spanish capital received high marks for its cultural events, food scene, and nightlife. According to the survey, 91% of residents consider the city's cultural offering to be excellent, while 86% highly rate its restaurants and bars. Madrid remains one of Europe’s primary hubs for art and events, with exhibitions, concerts, and festivals held year-round. Furthermore, the city offers numerous green spaces, efficient transport, and distinct neighbourhoods, each boasting its own unique character.

Valencia stood out in the rankings primarily for its standard of living and the happiness of its residents. 86% of those surveyed stated they were satisfied with their daily lives, and nearly 70% highly rated the quality of life in the city. Valencia offers a blend of coastal living, a historic centre spanning centuries, and a diverse cultural programme.

Bilbao entered the list thanks to its gastronomy and urban environment. Around 75% of residents highly value the local cuisine, and a similar number believe the city is exceptionally walkable. Bilbao serves as a prime example of the successful transformation of an industrial city into a modern cultural centre.

Time Out’s 50 Best Cities in the World for 2026

1. Melbourne (Australia)

2. Shanghai (China)

3. Edinburgh (UK)

4. London (UK)

5. New York (USA)

6. Cape Town (South Africa)

7. Mexico City (Mexico)

8. Bangkok (Thailand)

9. Seoul (South Korea)

10. Tokyo (Japan)

11. Zurich (Switzerland)

12. Rio de Janeiro (Brazil)

13. Copenhagen (Denmark)

14. São Paulo (Brazil)

15. Hong Kong (China)

16. Kraków (Poland)

17. Porto (Portugal)

18. Guadalajara (Mexico)

19. Madrid (Spain)

20. Valencia (Spain)

21. Sydney (Australia)

22. Paris (France)

23. Singapore (Singapore)

24. Marrakesh (Morocco)

25. Hanoi (Vietnam)

26. Bath (UK)

27. Bilbao (Spain)

28. Berlin (Germany)

29. Adelaide (Australia)

30. Beijing (China)

31. Antwerp (Belgium)

32. Chiang Mai (Thailand)

33. Naples (Italy)

34. Amsterdam (Netherlands)

35. Medellín (Colombia)

36. Lima (Peru)

37. Vancouver (Canada)

38. Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam)

39. Osaka (Japan)

40. Athens (Greece)

41. Chicago (USA)

42. Cairo (Egypt)

43. Buenos Aires (Argentina)

44. Vienna (Austria)

45. Dublin (Ireland)

46. San Francisco (USA)

47. Lagos (Nigeria)

48. Auckland (New Zealand)

49. Lisbon (Portugal)

50. Bogotá (Colombia)