Seville, Spain

With Andalucía also taking bronze in the Most Desirable Region category, Spain’s south is riding high. Regional capital Seville certainly encapsulates much of what makes this area special historically, from the Mudéjar architecture of the Alcázar to neighbourhood flamenco bars – but recent innovations are the aspects really exciting us.

Seville’s stint as a European Capital of Smart Tourism in 2023 reflects its efforts to become climate neutral by 2030, and to limit the impact of rising tourism. Eco-friendly trams and car-free areas lighten the load on its Casco Antiguo (Old Town), while bike tours using the excellent cycle network help spread out the crowds. And new attractions are now enticing travellers across the Guadalquivir River to less-visited districts such as Triana.

There remain few cities that balance modernity and tradition as well as Seville.when the Feria de Abril (April Fair) erupts in spring, and decorated carriages rattle along the streets, you’re catapulted back in time. Coupled with its vast array of old convents and monasteries-turned-museums, this storied city is finding clever new ways to keep its history intact and relevant.

Silver winner Bordeaux cemented its status as the epicentre of one of France’s great wine areas with the opening of the grand Cité du Vin museum, followed by the regeneration of old canalside barracks into a hip eco-zone. Bronze pick Lisbon is an old favourite among readers for its vibrant culture and heritage, fado bars, Moorish districts and astonishing palaces and monasteries.