Bali Today – Ubud, Bali | July 26, 2025
Ubud has just been crowned as one of the Top 10 Best Cities in the World for 2025 by the prestigious Travel + Leisure magazine, securing the 9th spot on the global list — and beating iconic European cities like Rome, Florence, Seville, and Granada.
The recognition is not just a win for Ubud, but a boost for Bali’s tourism image as a whole. According to Bali’s Head of Tourism, I Wayan Sumarajaya, the award will help reignite global curiosity about Bali, particularly its cultural and spiritual heart: Ubud.
“This achievement will enhance international interest in Bali,” Sumarajaya said on Thursday, July 17. “It will ultimately translate into increased tourist arrivals, which directly supports Bali’s economy — 66% of which depends on tourism.”
Sumarajaya emphasized that the title should be seen as both an honor and a responsibility.
“We urge the people of Ubud and Bali to maintain high service standards, protect the environment, and ensure that visitors feel safe and welcomed,” he added. “Let’s not become complacent or overly euphoric. The real work begins now.”
What Made Ubud Stand Out?
According to Travel + Leisure, what sets Ubud apart is its unique harmony with nature and its strong emphasis on wellness. The magazine highlights new destinations like Anantara Ubud Bali Resort, which blends tranquility with a refined sense of luxury in the island’s green highlands.
Ubud received a high reader score of 90.48, based on travel experiences that included vibrant culture, great food, comfortable accommodations, and the overall energy of the town.
From ancient palaces and artist communities to youth-led creative hubs and global cuisine, Ubud continues to evolve — while staying true to its roots.
The Only Indonesian City in the Global Top 10
Ubud is the only city from Indonesia to make the list, although it still trails behind some of its Southeast Asian neighbors like Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Hoi An.
Here are the Top 10 World’s Best Cities 2025, as voted by Travel + Leisure readers:
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San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
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Chiang Mai, Thailand
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Tokyo, Japan
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Bangkok, Thailand
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Jaipur, India
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Hoi An, Vietnam
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Mexico City, Mexico
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Kyoto, Japan
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Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
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Cuzco, Peru
Fabio Agung – Bali Today
