Best Cities in Central and South America 2026: World’s Best Awards Top 10 | Travel News

The cities of Central and South America continue to captivate travelers with their culinary excellence, cultural depth, architectural heritage, and vibrant urban life. In the 2026 edition of the World’s Best Awards, readers once again selected their top 10 cities in the region, highlighting destinations that deliver transformative and memorable travel experiences.

How the Voting Process Works

Each year, readers are invited to share their global travel experiences and evaluate cities based on a range of meaningful criteria. The World’s Best Awards survey gathers feedback on destinations, hotels, cruise ships, airlines, and more.

Cities were evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Sights/landmarks
• Culture
• Food
• Friendliness
• Shopping
• Value

For each characteristic, respondents rated their experiences as excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores represent the averages of these responses.

What Readers Enjoyed

 

In 2026, Cuzco, Peru maintained its leading position as the region’s top city. Antigua Guatemala rose to the No. 2 spot, admired for its preserved Baroque architecture and dramatic volcanic backdrop. Panama City secured the No. 10 position, while Rio de Janeiro remains Brazil’s sole representative in the ranking.

Mendoza continues to attract praise for its world-class wine culture, while Colombia holds two positions with Cartagena and Bogotá. Cartagena is frequently described as a vibrant fusion of Caribbean, African, and Latin influences.

Quito stands strong in third place, followed by Lima, celebrated for its globally recognized gastronomy scene, and Buenos Aires, admired for its European elegance blended with Latin passion.

The Winner

 

Cuzco, Peru

 

This city in the Peruvian Andes has consistently been a reader favorite, and it's easy to understand why. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city offers visitors the chance to explore Incan temples, try local dishes like cuy al horno (roast guinea pig), and serve as a central base for trips to Machu Picchu. One reader praised Cuzco, saying, “All the best things you could imagine are in this incredible city.” They described it as “beautiful,” with a rich history and unique food and nightlife. The city’s historical and architectural allure captivated many readers, with one noting it as a “beautiful city.” In summary, as one reader put it, Cuzco is an “amazing place to visit to experience the country’s wild history.”

Visitors use Cuzco as the gateway to Machu Picchu, but the city itself is a destination worthy of exploration. From ancient stone walls and historic plazas to dynamic nightlife and contemporary culinary experiences, Cuzco delivers a compelling mix of history and modern energy.

Readers consistently praise its architectural beauty, cultural richness, and immersive atmosphere, reaffirming its status as one of the most captivating cities in Central and South America.
 

The Full List

 

1. Cuzco, Peru

 

Cuzco is the cultural heart of the Peruvian Andes, where Inca stonework and Spanish colonial architecture share the same streets. It is the ideal base for Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, and high-altitude day trips.

Spend time in Plaza de Armas, browse San Pedro Market, and visit Korikancha to understand the city’s layered history. Food lovers will find Andean flavors, cozy cafés, and excellent restaurants that make Cuzco a destination on its own.

Reader Score: 87.47
 

2. Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala

 

Antigua Guatemala is one of the most photogenic colonial cities in Central America, framed by volcanoes and filled with Baroque facades. Cobblestone streets, colorful courtyards, and historic churches create an effortlessly romantic atmosphere.

Climb to Cerro de la Cruz for panoramic views, then explore artisan shops and rooftop cafés. Its compact layout makes it perfect for walking, and it pairs beautifully with volcano hikes and coffee region excursions.

Reader Score: 85.93

3. Quito, Ecuador

 

Quito offers one of Latin America’s best-preserved historic centers, a UNESCO-listed collection of churches, plazas, and museums set high in the Andes. The city blends colonial grandeur with a modern culinary and arts scene.

Visit La Compañía and San Francisco, then ride the Teleférico for sweeping mountain views. Quito is also the perfect launch point for the Equator Line, cloud forest getaways, and day trips to nearby volcano country.

Reader Score: 84.26

4. Lima, Peru

 

Lima is a global food capital on the Pacific coast, known for world-class restaurants and the freshness of its seafood. Beyond gastronomy, the city delivers coastal parks, colonial landmarks, and a lively urban energy.

Explore Miraflores and Barranco for ocean views, galleries, and nightlife, then tour the UNESCO-listed historic center. Whether you want ceviche tastings or museum days, Lima is an easy, rewarding start to Peru travel.

Reader Score: 84.13

5. Buenos Aires, Argentina

 

Buenos Aires combines European elegance with Latin soul, offering grand avenues, café culture, tango, and an art scene that never slows down. Each neighborhood feels distinct, from Palermo’s design shops to San Telmo’s antique markets.

Enjoy a classic parrilla dinner, visit Recoleta’s landmarks, and catch live tango in an intimate venue. The city is also an excellent gateway to Patagonia, Iguazú Falls, and Argentina’s wine regions.

Reader Score: 84.09

6. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

 

Rio de Janeiro is defined by dramatic scenery, where mountains and beaches meet a vibrant city lifestyle. Iconic viewpoints, Atlantic Forest trails, and famous shorelines make it a standout for first-time Brazil travelers.

Take the cable car up Sugarloaf, visit Christ the Redeemer, and relax on Copacabana or Ipanema. For a deeper experience, explore local markets, samba culture, and outdoor adventures in Tijuca National Park.

Reader Score: 82.81

7. Cartagena, Colombia

 

Cartagena is a Caribbean jewel with a walled Old Town, colorful balconies, and a warm, sea-breeze atmosphere. The city’s history, music, and coastal energy make it one of Colombia’s most memorable destinations.

Walk the colonial streets at sunset, enjoy rooftop dining, and explore Getsemaní for street art and nightlife. Cartagena also pairs well with nearby island day trips and beach escapes on Colombia’s Caribbean coast.

Reader Score: 82.69

8. Bogotá, Colombia

 

Bogota is a high-altitude capital with a strong cultural scene, excellent dining, and some of the best museums in South America. It is dynamic and creative, with a mix of historic districts and modern neighborhoods.

Visit La Candelaria for colonial streets and murals, then ride Monserrate for citywide views. Food and coffee experiences are outstanding here, and Bogotá is an ideal starting point for broader Colombia travel.

Reader Score: 82.14

 

9. Mendoza, Argentina

 

Mendoza is Argentina’s premier wine destination, set against the Andes and famous for Malbec vineyards. The region blends luxury tastings, farm-to-table dining, and outdoor adventures in a relaxed, sunny climate.

Plan winery visits in Luján de Cuyo or the Uco Valley, then add horseback riding or mountain excursions. Mendoza is especially appealing for couples and travelers who want wine, landscapes, and refined comfort.

Reader Score: 82.00
 

10. Panama City, Panama

Panama City delivers a rare combination of modern skyline, historic charm, and a world-famous engineering landmark. It is an excellent hub for travelers connecting Central America with South America.

Explore Casco Viejo for colonial streets and rooftop views, then visit the Panama Canal for an iconic day experience. With nearby rainforest, beaches, and island escapes, Panama City offers more variety than most travelers expect.

Reader Score: 79.05