The 35 best and worst long-haul city destinations for British travelers in 2025 have been revealed in a recent survey conducted by Which?, a consumer advocacy organization. Over 1,500 members were asked to share their experiences of cities outside Europe over the past year, ranking them based on factors such as food and drink, accommodation, cultural and tourist attractions, shopping, ease of getting around, lack of crowds, and value for money. A total score was calculated by combining overall satisfaction and the likelihood of recommending the destination. This year, Cape Town has emerged as the top-rated destination with an impressive 91% score, while Miami has been ranked as the worst, with a disappointing 56% score, being criticized as "a total rip off."
Cape Town, consistently praised by visitors, has been highlighted as a must-visit destination for foodies, shoppers, and nature lovers alike. The South African city received a five-star rating for its food and drink, shopping, and overall value for money, making it a standout choice for travelers. One visitor remarked, "I was amazed by the low cost of eating out in Cape Town compared to London or New York. The food was exceptional." Another traveler added, "There are so many amazing things to do in Cape Town at such a very reasonable cost… it is a wonderful place to visit." Cape Town also scored four stars for accommodation and cultural sights, with respondents particularly appreciating the city’s natural beauty, such as the iconic Table Mountain and the penguins at Boulders Beach. Its affordability, coupled with its rich cultural offerings and stunning scenery, makes Cape Town an ideal destination for British travelers in 2025.
Kyoto, a city steeped in history and culture, claims the second spot with a score of 90%. The former imperial capital of Japan is renowned for its 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which include temples, shrines, and gardens, earning it a full five-star rating for cultural sights and attractions. One visitor described Kyoto as "one of the few cities in the world with such a huge range of awe-inspiring sites." Kyoto also received five stars for food and drink, a testament to its traditional Japanese cuisine and vibrant food culture. Additionally, it scored four stars for value for money, ease of getting around, accommodation, and shopping. The city’s ability to seamlessly blend tradition with modernity, along with its well-preserved heritage, makes it a favorite among travelers.
Sydney, Australia, rounds off the top three with an 88% score. Known for its iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, the city is celebrated for its cultural attractions, food scene, and ease of navigation. One repeat visitor described Sydney as "one of the ‘must-see’ cities of the world." The city’s famous fish market and local coffee were particularly praised by visitors, contributing to its five-star ratings for cultural sights, food, and drink. Sydney also earned four stars for shopping, making it a well-rounded destination for travelers seeking a mix of culture, dining, and retail experiences.
The United States’ highest-rated city, Chicago, ties with Tokyo for fourth place, both achieving an 86% score. Chicago is lauded for its "atmospheric lakeside setting," "pioneering skyscrapers," and "beautiful architecture," earning it five stars for cultural sights. Tokyo, on the other hand, excels in food and drink, cultural attractions, and shopping, with visitors praising its unique blend of modernity and tradition. One traveler described Tokyo as "one of the most unique and extraordinary cities in the world." Singapore completes the top five with an 85% score, followed by Bangkok, Melbourne, and Washington, D.C., all tied at 84%.
At the other end of the spectrum, Miami has been ranked as the worst city break destination, with a meager 56% score. Visitors dismissed the city as "overrated," with its highest rating being three stars for shopping. Miami’s value for money was a major concern, with one traveler calling it "very expensive compared to the UK" and a "total rip off." Las Vegas followed closely as the second-worst destination, earning just 58%, with no category scoring higher than two stars. One particularly disappointed visitor described Las Vegas as "fake in every way, incredibly expensive, with bad food and terrible transport options… it’s my least favorite city in the world." Los Angeles, Seattle, and Dubai also ranked poorly, with scores of 62%, 64%, and 64%, respectively.
Rory Boland, editor of Which? Travel, notes that while some cities may rely on a single attraction, the top destinations in this year’s survey offer a well-rounded experience, combining cultural richness, exceptional food, and stunning scenery. Boland also highlights the affordability of certain cities, such as Cape Town, where the pound stretches further, and Japan, where the weaker yen has made travel more affordable for British visitors. For travelers planning their 2025 holidays, this survey provides valuable insights, emphasizing the importance of choosing destinations that offer not just iconic landmarks but also value, quality, and unforgettable experiences.
