Cape Town has earned another accolade after readers of Wanderlust Travel Magazine named it the third most desirable City in the world.
The Mother City climbed from fourth place in 2025 to bronze this year, behind Tokyo and Buenos Aires in the 25th edition of the Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards. It is the UK’s longest-running and largest travel magazine by circulation.
More than 251,000 Wanderlust readers cast over 8.2 million votes this year, placing Cape Town ahead of Sydney, Vancouver, Hong Kong and Montréal.
Winners were announced at a London ceremony during World Travel Market week, with the Duke of Sussex delivering the keynote address.
Chief Marketing Officer of Cape Town Tourism, Briony Brookes, explains why this particular accolade is so meaningful:
“Fourth last year, bronze this year, and we’re not done climbing. This one means the world to us because it comes straight from travellers. Wanderlust readers don’t tick boxes; they go deep, and they’ve told the world that Cape Town is a city you have to experience. That’s a credit to every guide, chef, winemaker, host and small business owner who makes a visit here unforgettable. To every reader who voted for us: thank you. We’ll see you soon.”
The City of Cape Town has also welcomed the award. Spokesperson, Luthando Tyhalibongo, said:
“Recognition like this helps keep Cape Town front of mind for international travellers, creating opportunities for more bookings, more visitor spend and more jobs for Capetonians. The City will continue to invest in safety, access and infrastructure so the welcome matches the reputation. Bronze looks good on us, but gold would look even better.”
