Bangkok, the Thai capital, has been ranked 5th among the 9 cities in the world that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime.
Global English , a professional English proofreading and editing service, has compiled a ranking of cities that create unforgettable memories for travelers thanks to their gastronomy, architecture, history, and unique identity.
Each city on this list offers a unique charm that captivates visitors in different ways.
According to Global English, travel not only broadens one's horizons, but also improves one's understanding of culture, beauty and diversity, and even offers a new perspective on oneself.
While some places may leave a temporary impression, others, like these 9 cities, will remain forever etched in your memory.
These destinations offer something memorable for everyone, making them worth visiting at least once in a lifetime.
The 9 cities that everyone should visit at least once in their life

View of Bangkok and the Chao Phraya River. Photo: Littlewormy
1. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is the kind of city that overwhelms your senses in the best possible way.
Neon lights, tranquil temples, Michelin-starred ramen restaurants, futuristic trains and age-old traditions coexist in perfect harmony.
Why this city is a must-see:
- The most efficient public transport in the world
- A kitchen you'll dream about for years to come
- A blend of tranquility and excitement that you won't find anywhere else
It's a city where you can feel both lost and completely at home, often at the same time.
2. Paris, France
One can debate whether Paris is overrated, but spend an evening walking along the Seine at sunset and the debate evaporates.
Paris is romance, architecture, art, philosophy, pastries, fashion…
It is the embodiment of beauty through human creation.
Moments not to be missed:
- Standing in front of the Eiffel Tower at night
- Strolling through the cobbled streets of Montmartre
- Enjoying a fresh croissant in a neighborhood bakery
Paris does not just charm you, it enriches you.
3. New York, United States
New York is less a city than an entire universe compressed into five boroughs. It is at once relentless, inspiring, chaotic, and magical.
The energy there is unparalleled. People come to New York with dreams, and somehow, the city convinces them that anything is possible.
What makes it unforgettable:
- World-class museums and theaters
- Diverse and extraordinary cuisine on every street corner
- The feeling of standing in Times Square or walking through Central Park
If you want to remember what ambition is, visit New York.
4. Istanbul, Türkiye
Istanbul is the place where worlds meet, literally.
Straddling Europe and Asia, it is a city shaped by empires, culture, spirituality, and stories.
Its history is palpable in the air: the call to prayer echoing through the ancient streets, the smell of freshly cooked simits, the shimmering reflections of the Bosphorus at dusk.
Why you should discover Istanbul:
- The breathtaking interior of Hagia Sophia
- The Grand Bazaar's treasure maze
- Turkish tea by the water, as the city lights up
Istanbul leaves a lasting impression because it is animated by multiple facets of humanity.
5. Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok radiates energy.
It is chaotic yet strangely serene, noisy yet deeply spiritual, modern yet rooted in ancient tradition.
For many travelers, it becomes one of their favorite cities in the world.
You'll love it for:
- Street food (arguably the best in the world)
- The golden temples that contrast with the urban skyscrapers
- The warmth and humor of the Thai people
Bangkok is the very definition of organized chaos, with heart.
6. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona has a soul. You can feel it in the architecture, the cuisine, the sea breeze, and the nighttime laughter that echoes through its streets.
Gaudí's creations give the city a dreamlike, almost unreal appearance.
Why you absolutely must visit it:
- The colorful wonder of Park Güell
- The breathtaking beauty of the Sagrada Família
- Tapas enjoyed slowly, in the Spanish style
If you are looking for a city that nurtures your creativity, Barcelona is for you.
7. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is a place where nature and culture blend perfectly.
It is one of the most spectacular cities on the planet, where mountains, ocean, wildlife and modern life intertwine.
Don't miss it:
- The ascent (or cable car ride) of Table Mountain
- The penguins of Boulders Beach
- World-renowned vineyards just a short drive away
Cape Town reminds you how beautiful the Earth can be.
8. Rome, Italy
Walking around Rome is like walking through a living museum.
Every street corner has a story, every building hides centuries of history, and every meal tastes like it has been prepared with the wisdom of several generations.
Rome is unforgettable for the following reasons:
- The Colosseum humbles you
- The Vatican inspires respect
- Pasta will ruin your future pasta-eating habits.
It's a city where time folds back on itself and where you feel connected to something much bigger than yourself.
9. Singapore
Singapore is one of the cleanest, safest, and most innovative cities in the world.
It's a place where ancient culture meets futuristic design, and where everything blends together naturally.
Why Singapore should be on your bucket list:
- The surreal beauty of Gardens by the Bay
- Shopping malls that serve some of the best food in the world
- The cultural mosaic: Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western influences
Singapore is not just a city, it is a glimpse into the future of urban life.
Conclusion
The world is vast, and no list can include all the cities worth visiting.
But these nine destinations offer a cultural, aesthetic, human and historical richness that can truly enrich your life.
Each city leaves a different imprint.
Some of them ground you in reality.
Others energize you.
Others still make you dream bigger.
And some remain forever etched in your heart for reasons you can't even explain.
If you have the chance to discover them, even just once, you will keep an unforgettable memory of them for the rest of your life.
- Bangkok was ranked 5th among the 9 cities in the world to visit at least once in a lifetime.
- The ranking was established by Global English, a professional proofreading and editing service.
- Each selected city is distinguished by its gastronomy, its identity, its history and its memorable impact on travelers.
See also:
Thailand ranked as the best country to eat in the world in 2025
Thailand voted world's best food country by 2025
Thailand: Bangkok voted best holiday destination in Asia in 2025
Thailand: Suvarnabhumi Airport ranked 10th best in the world
Khao Yai, Thailand's natural gem, crowned Asia's second rural destination
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1 comment
For once, I quite agree with this assessment…
Obviously, in this ranking, all the positive attractions justifying their ranking are listed for this urban "gold package," erasing their drawbacks and negative aspects, which are nevertheless present and specifically different…
Everyone will find something to enjoy, something to be happy about, but may also become acquainted with some unpleasant aspects of these megacities…
Nobody's perfect, and as the article says, it's something you should do at least once in your life!!!