Recently, the international consultancy Resonance Consultancy released the 2024 edition of the "Europe's Best Cities Report", which ranked the 100 best cities, with Rome and Milan both in the top 10.
Other Italian cities on the list include: Naples (26th), Florence (38th), Venice (57th), Torino (88th) and Bologna (99th).
Here are the top 10 cities on the list:
10. Milan
In tenth place is Milan, the capital of Italy's Lombardy region. As a financial, design and fashion hub, Milan attracts many affluent tourists. Whether it's Britons moving here due to Brexit or Russians looking for a place to live, Milan offers luxury properties, upscale hotels, and social clubs.
In addition, Milan's strategic proximity to other European capitals, as well as events such as the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics, are also part of the city's strengths.
9. Istanbul
To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Turkey, Istanbul, which straddles the Eurasian continent, underwent an urban transformation last year. The ancient port of Galata, which was renovated at a cost of $1.7 billion, attracts tourists from all over the world. And it is also the world's first underground cruise terminal with a special hatch system. This mix of old and new city is ranked ninth in the rankings.
8. Amsterdam
Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, has been widely praised for its handling of Ukrainian refugees, such as when the city government called in a large cruise ship to accommodate more than 1,000 refugees to address overcrowding in refugee centers.
In addition, the world-famous city that never sleeps is also trying to control overtourism in order to create a more livable urban space.
7. Barcelona
Barcelona is among the top 10 for its climate, architecture, and beaches. The construction of the Sagrada Familia, which has been going on for almost a century and a half, is coming to an end.
Barcelona has one of the highest car densities in the European Union, with 6,000 cars per square kilometre. However, pedestrian neighborhood redevelopment projects in city centers will reduce vehicular traffic while improving the city's livability.
6. Prague
The pandemic has led to a significant reduction in the number of tourists, making the old town less crowded. At the same time, Prague still retains its vibrancy and charm. The Europe's Best Cities report also lists new attractions, such as beer fountains.
In addition, the city is home to four universities, which provides a rich academic and cultural atmosphere for young people. And the cost of living in Prague is relatively low compared to other cities in Europe.
5. Madrid
Madrid's urban sustainability has been praised for its renovation, such as the renovation of the Santander Park, the construction of the urban forest network, and the upgrading of the public transport system, all of which are adapting to the city's green development needs.
4. Rome
Rome is in fourth place in the list of the best cities.
The Eternal City attracts visitors from all over the globe with its rich history and rich cultural heritage, and the city continues to open up new attractions to citizens and tourists alike.
Last year, for example, the city of Rome opened the Plaza de la Gigil to give the public an up-close look at the 2,000-year-old complex, which is believed to be the site of Julius Caesar's assassination.
In addition, large and small parks and green spaces provide leisure places for citizens. Rome's hospitality industry is also growing rapidly, offering more high-quality accommodation options for tourists.
3. Berlin
Standing on the podium for third place was Berlin. The city is notable not only in terms of sports, such as hosting Special Olympics World, the largest inclusive sporting event in the world. There is also a strong cultural scene, such as the Berlin International Film Festival. Berlin is also one of the most important centres for the LGBTIQ+ community.
2. Paris
Paris is still in second place in the standings, with the same result as last year. In anticipation of the upcoming Summer Olympics, Paris has transformed the city's pedestrian zones, cycle paths, and outdoor spaces. Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo has promoted the construction of bicycle lanes and plans to make Paris a "100% cycable city".
1. London
London once again won the title of Europe's best city with its outstanding overall strength. The city is a top destination for students, foreign investors, and tourists. In 2022, London ranked third in the world in terms of international tourist spending. At the same time, the depreciation of the pound also brings certain advantages to tourists, making travel costs relatively low, further promoting the development and attractiveness of tourism. In addition, transport in London is constantly evolving, with new tube stations making it possible to connect more areas directly, making the city more efficient.
(Yi Yi original, compilation: Shu Liao, Sasha, picture source: Pixabay network, part of the content is from the Italian Tg24 network, please indicate Yi Yi: oushitalia for reprinting)