The World's Most Beautiful Coastal Cities

This was certainly a difficult list to put together. We began with 15 cities, narrowed the choices to 6 after plenty of passionate discussion, and finally reduced them to 4. These are our picks for the world's most beautiful coastal cities.

1) Venice

Unlike the other cities on this list, Venice is not surrounded by dramatic natural scenery. Instead, it makes up for that with an extraordinary amount of charm, romance, and atmosphere. Its beauty may have been created by people, but there is no doubt that Venice is an incredibly beautiful city. Take a gondola ride along the Grand Canal or stay for a night or two at the Hotel Danieli, and its unique appeal becomes immediately clear.

2) Cape Town

Cape Town occupies a narrow peninsula between the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, with the enormous Table Mountain standing at the heart of the city and spectacular beaches stretching along the coastline. Clifton Beach is one of the few urban beaches that regularly appears on lists of the world's best beaches, while other scenic beaches around the city, including Boulders, are famous for their resident penguins.

The city also offers one of the world's most spectacular coastal drives, beginning right within Cape Town itself. Add to that the remarkable wineries found in and around the city, including Groot Constantia. Established in 1685, this historic winery has produced award-winning wines for centuries, with its extensive vineyards flowing down the slopes of Table Mountain.

3) Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro takes the third spot, although the competition between Rio and Cape Town was extremely close. Both cities combine dramatic mountains with beautiful beaches to create unforgettable coastal scenery.

At times, Rio can feel energetic, unpredictable, and slightly chaotic, which is perhaps fitting for a city so deeply connected to the rhythm of samba. Let yourself relax, join the locals, and embrace the city's lively atmosphere, and you are likely to have an unforgettable experience.

Rio's beaches are among the best places to experience the city's character while enjoying its natural beauty. For the ultimate view and a truly memorable experience, combine a day at the beach with a visit to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue overlooking the city.

4) Sydney

Most people already know how impressive the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House are, but those landmarks alone were not enough to secure Sydney a place on our list of the world's most beautiful coastal cities. What ultimately made the difference was the enormous harbor, which seems to stretch endlessly, together with its countless small coves and beautiful beaches.

When all of these elements are brought together, Sydney becomes a magnificent city set in an extraordinary coastal landscape.