In an achievement that has filled every Rajasthani heart with pride, Jaipur has officially beaten Florence to enter the Top 5 Best Cities in the World for Travellers in 2025. Known for its regal forts, vibrant markets, and heritage hospitality, Jaipur has long been a favourite among Indian tourists, but this global recognition cements its place as a world-class destination.
What does this ranking mean?
These rankings, usually compiled by reputed travel magazines like Travel + Leisure and organisations like Condé Nast Traveller, are based on readers’ votes considering aspects like culture, heritage, hospitality, shopping, culinary experience, and overall vibe. For Jaipur to surpass Florence, which has been a European tourism gem for decades, speaks volumes about how far the Pink City has come in offering a holistic, unforgettable travel experience.
Why is Jaipur in the Top 5 Best Cities in 2025?
Let’s explore the key reasons behind Jaipur’s meteoric rise in global tourism rankings this year:
1. Rich Cultural Heritage
Jaipur is one of the rare cities where history breathes through every street. The magnificent Amber Fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, and other architectural marvels narrate tales of Rajputana grandeur. Tourists are enchanted by its royal aura, pink sandstone structures, and intricate art forms like block printing, blue pottery, meenakari, and gemstone cutting.
2. Improved Infrastructure
Over the past few years, the Rajasthan government and tourism board have invested significantly in developing roads, connectivity, sanitation, and airport facilities. Jaipur International Airport is now well-connected to Europe, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and domestic hubs, making it easily accessible.
3. Luxury Hospitality Boom
International travellers seek authentic yet comfortable experiences. Jaipur has seen a boom in luxury heritage hotels and boutique stays. Palaces like Rambagh Palace, Jai Mahal Palace, and dozens of renovated havelis provide royal stays with modern comforts, giving global tourists a reason to prefer Jaipur over European cities for heritage tourism.
4. Culinary Excellence
From the royal laal maas to street delicacies like kachori, ghevar, and kulhad chai, Jaipur is a paradise for food lovers. Several chefs and hospitality brands have introduced curated dining experiences within forts and heritage properties, bringing traditional recipes to international tables with finesse.
5. Safety and Tourist Friendliness
Tourists value safety and a welcoming atmosphere. Jaipur, compared to many crowded global destinations, offers a relatively peaceful and secure environment with people known for their warm hospitality – “Padharo Mhare Desh” is not just a slogan here.
6. Focus on Sustainable Tourism
With heritage walks, eco-friendly guided tours, and curated shopping experiences supporting local artisans, Jaipur has positioned itself as a city that respects both tourists and its environment. This aligns with the rising preference of global travellers for responsible and sustainable tourism.
Jaipur vs Florence: What Tipped the Scale?
Florence, Italy, has always been synonymous with art, Renaissance architecture, and museums. However, traveller reviews in 2025 highlighted certain shifts:
- Overcrowding and Tourist Fatigue: Florence has faced challenges related to overcrowding and tourist fatigue, which negatively impact visitor experiences. Jaipur, in contrast, with its spacious forts, palaces, and multiple attractions spread across the city, never feels cramped.
- Experiential Travel Preference: Modern travellers prefer experiential tourism over mere sightseeing. Jaipur offers hot air balloon rides over Amber Fort, elephant village visits, royal vintage car tours, traditional cooking classes, and block-printing workshops – creating lasting memories.
- Affordability Factor: Despite its luxury offerings, Jaipur remains more affordable than European cities. Tourists get five-star hospitality, cultural immersion, shopping, and gastronomic experiences at a fraction of the cost compared to Florence.
Global Rankings in Context
In the Top 5 Best Cities for Travellers in 2025, the list reportedly includes:
- Kyoto, Japan
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Jaipur, India
- Florence, Italy
- Barcelona, Spain
Jaipur’s jump to the third position, surpassing Florence, is the highest ranking it has ever achieved in global travel lists. This reflects the growing love and fascination of international travellers for India’s cultural capital.
What Are Travellers Saying?
Here are snippets from traveller reviews that boosted Jaipur’s rankings this year:
- Staying at a palace in Jaipur made me feel like royalty. The staff treated us like family, and the city is a photographer’s dream.
- I’ve travelled to Florence before, but Jaipur was an unexpectedly beautiful experience – from colourful bazaars to traditional Rajasthani meals served with love.
- We did block printing in Bagru and then had dinner overlooking Amber Fort lit up at night, magical.
- Jaipur’s blend of luxury, tradition, and affordability is unmatched.
What This Means for Jaipur
Boost in International Tourism
This ranking will significantly increase tourist inflow, creating more opportunities for local businesses, artisans, hotels, and guides.
Improved Global Brand Image
Jaipur’s recognition on such a prestigious global platform places it on par with iconic world cities, enhancing India’s brand in the international travel industry.
Need for Sustainable Management
With fame comes responsibility. Jaipur will need to manage its footfall efficiently to protect its heritage sites from overcrowding and pollution.
Must-Do Experiences in Jaipur
For anyone planning to visit Jaipur after this global recognition, here are 5 unmissable experiences:
- Explore Amber Fort at sunrise for magical views.
- Walk through the old bazaars, Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar, for jewellery, handicrafts, and textiles.
- Try authentic Rajasthani thali at heritage restaurants like Chokhi Dhani.
- Stay in a palace hotel to experience the luxury of royalty.
- Watch the sunset from Nahargarh Fort overlooking the entire city.
The Road Ahead
Jaipur’s tourism department is expected to launch new international marketing campaigns, heritage conservation drives, and luxury hospitality projects after this ranking. Plans include:
- Promoting Jaipur as a wedding destination globally
- Improving heritage site management and cleanliness
- Hosting international art and literature festivals
Conclusion
From a city built in 1727 as India’s first planned city to becoming one of the Top 5 Best Cities for Travellers globally in 2025, Jaipur has scripted a remarkable success story. Its rise is not just about beautiful monuments but about its people, traditions, and the seamless blend of royal past with modern hospitality.
“Jaipur has proven that cultural heritage, when preserved and presented with love, can win hearts across continents.”
If you haven’t yet experienced the magic of Jaipur, this is the best time to pack your bags and explore the city that has beaten Florence to become a true global travel icon.
If you want to develop your own travel website or app, you can get it done with AV Technosys – they provide fully customised travel tech solutions for your business.
