Talking about a ‘work of art’ would directly bring us to a beautiful, award-winning painting or an intricate sculpture praised by respected critics. However, other pieces of art worth to be admired are architectural structures. From centuries-old churches adorned with Baroque-styled murals to towering skyscrapers designed from a futuristic blueprint, get ready to be stunned by an extensive list of architectural structures. If you are an architecture fan, traveling to a city or a country for its architecture is a must! Here are the 12 amazing cities with the best architecture around the world.
Top Cities with the Best Architecture – Summary
- Athens, Greece
- Barcelona, Spain
- Florence, Italy
- Venice, Italy
- Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Chicago, USA
- Marrakesh, Morocco
- Istanbul, Turkey
- Bordeaux, France
- Brasilia, Brazil
- Portland, Oregon, USA
- Montreal, Canada
Athens, Greece
When in Athens, you’re not just exploring a city; you’re stepping into a time machine. As the home to one of history’s most prominent empires, Athens offers nothing more than alluring. The Ancient Greeks left their proud architectural structure all over the city. From the magnificent Acropolis that whispers stories of gods and legends to the Parthenon that showcases artistic endeavors, Athens’ architecture is immaculate.
On the other hand, the city breathes with dynamic modern life. Contemporary buildings, such as the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, become a representation of Athens’ groovy and thriving culture. Local architects boast their artworks all over the city, bringing a wide range of styles from industrial to Bauhaus. As the city where the past and the present collide, Athens is one of the cities with the best architecture in the world.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is a canvas painted by the genius of Antoni Gaudí. Vivid-colored mosaics, intricate ironworks, and out-of-the-box designs – you name it. Thus, the city is an open-air museum showcasing Gaudi’s distinctive collection. From the mesmerizing Sagrada Família to the surreal Park Güell, every corner is an architectural masterpiece.
Whether you are a die-hard architecture fan or a dedicated photographer, Barcelona is your perfect playground. Besides the works of Gaudi, Barcelona boasts centuries-old Gothic and Art-Noveau buildings. It is one of the cities with the best architecture in the world. Get ready to fall in love with a city that seamlessly blends whimsy and innovation.
Florence, Italy
For those who appreciate the elegance of the Renaissance, Florence is a dream come true. This beautiful Italian city breathes with history, looking as if it is stuck in the 16th century. Thus, the buildings are nothing less than elegant. The cobblestoned streets take you to marvelous churches, ornate buildings, and beautiful towers which fit the phrase ‘architectural wonders’ perfectly.
Roam around Florence and get ready to be stunned by the landmarks. Duomo Cathedral beckons travelers from all around the world with its iconic dome and alluring Renaissance-styled facade. Ponte Vecchio takes you to a dreamy nostalgia. Meanwhile, Piazzale Michelangelo stands as a representative of Italy’s brilliant beauty – an open-air museum packed with tourists. Therefore, Florence is one of the cities with the best architecture in the world.
Venice, Italy
Time suddenly stops in Venice, framing the city with centuries-old wonders. Tucked in the Adriatic Sea, this Italian city boasts the perfect blend between beautiful art works and sophisticated architecture. The canals are strongly built as the backbone of Venice. On the other hand, the city boasts stunning Venetian Gothic and Renaissance structures. From the Rialto Bridge to the Piazza San Marco, the buildings in Venice look ethereal. Every winding alley and picturesque bridge is a testament to the architectural brilliance that has stood the test of time. Therefore, Venice is one of the top cities with the best architecture.
Dubai, United Emirates Arab
Get ready to be swept away by the city that defies gravity. Everything in Dubai is described with superlatives. This Emirati city has become a testament to human ambition an architectural prowess. Skypuncturing buildings, futuristic structures, and artificial islands are scattered all over Dubai. So, get ready for an never-ending architecture galore as you land in this luxurious city!
Dubai is home to the tallest building in the world – Burj Khalifa. The sleek skyscraper stands at 2,723-feet tall, offering a literal ‘on the top of the world’ view. Besides that, Dubai has a myriad of outstanding architectural structures, such as the artificial futuristic island of Palm Jumeirah, the rocket-like Burj Al-Arab, and the impressive Cayan Tower. With all it has to offer, Dubai is one of the most spectacular cities with the best architecture in the world.
Marrakesh, Morocco
Marrakesh is a feast for the senses. The ancient medina, with its vibrant souks and intricate riads, showcases the beauty of Moroccan architecture. The juxtaposition of tradition and modernity makes Marrakesh one of the most architecturally beautiful cities in the world.
Whether you are a photographer or a casual traveler, Marrakesh will make you want to stay longer. The streets, especially historical districts, are dotted with astonishing buildings adorned with patterns and mosaics. Different hues of colors create a stunning contrast to the sand-colored city. Witness some of them in Jardin Majorelle, which keeps the artistic eyes of Yves Saint Laurent while highlighting traditional Morrocan architecture. Or pay a visit to the Bahia Palace which boasts past time splendors.
Istanbul, Turkey
As the centuries-old hub of trading and economy, Istanbul is bursting with diversity. The city’s architecture simply depicts the extensive timeline it has witnessed. From intricately carved Byzantine buildings to elegant Ottoman mosques, a wealth of architectural styles is Istanbul’s specialty. Therefore, a trip to the city will spoil your sight.
Some of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks include the 17th-century Blue Mosque and Byzantine-styled Hagia Sophia. The mosques look twice as spectacular when you enter the chambers. Dome-shaped ceilings tinted with beautiful murals, walls adorned with carvings, and other different exceptional artworks. Therefore, Istanbul is one of the best cities for architecture.
Bordeaux, France
If a fairytale-like place is your cup of tea, Bordeaux must be on your bucket list. Despite the modern buzz it has, this Southern French city takes you traveling through time. Marvelous Gothic-style churches, beautiful Neoclassical statues scattered throughout the squares, and exquisite Renaissance mansions will make you feel like you are in the Beauty and the Beast world. Pay a visit to the Cathedral Saint-André, which stuns with its intricate facade. Moreover, don’t miss Place de la Bourse, the city square as well as a masterpiece of architect Ange-Jacques Gabriel.
Chicago, USA
Chicago will stun everyone who visits with its brilliant architecture. From the iconic bronze-tinted Willis Tower to the striking Marina City, Chicago pioneers American modern architecture. The city is scattered with futuristic skyscrapers that would make every architecture fan go crazy. An unmissable activity to try when you are visiting Chicago is the architecture boat tour. You will sail along the Chicago River for 1.5 hours to witness the modernity and brilliance of the city’s architecture. Make sure to have your camera with you!
Portland, Oregon, USA
When we talk about ‘the best cities for architecture’, we’re not just talking about looks. For that reason, Portland makes its way to the list. The city’s architecture represents simplicity while hiding technological advancement. Most of Portland’s public buildings are designed in laidback box shapes, which might remind you of Scandinavian architecture. However, they are advancing in sustainability. The all-timber buildings make Portland both sustainable and stylish.
Brasilia, Brazil
Tucked in the heart of South America, Brasilia is a groundbreaking representation of the continent’s architecture. It flipped the switch in the field of urban planning since architect Oscar Niemeyer was commissioned in 1956. Symmetrical and futuristic-looking buildings dominate the landscape. Some are indeed quirky, like the pyramid-like Cathedral of Brasilia and the winding arches of Juscelino Kubitschek Bridge. Therefore, it is one of the best cities for architecture in the world due to its authentic style.