Puerto Vallarta may not have landed on this year’s list of the world’s best cities, but Mexico’s outstanding performance in the 2026 Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards is welcome news for one of the country’s most popular beach destinations.
Every year, Travel + Leisure asks its readers to rate cities around the globe based on attractions, culture, cuisine, hospitality, shopping, and overall value. The 2026 results once again highlighted Mexico as a leading destination, with four cities earning places among the world’s top 15 – more than any other country.
For the third straight year, San Miguel de Allende claimed the number one spot, receiving a score of 93.07 out of 100. The UNESCO World Heritage city continues to impress travelers with its beautifully preserved colonial architecture, acclaimed restaurants, thriving arts community, and welcoming atmosphere.
Oaxaca ranked fifth for the second consecutive year, recognized not only for its internationally celebrated cuisine but also for its colorful festivals, artisan markets, and rich cultural traditions. Mexico City placed ninth, earning praise for its extraordinary blend of history, museums, architecture, and culinary innovation. Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco, rounded out the rankings in fifteenth place, honored for its authentic Mexican heritage, outstanding food, shopping, and flourishing arts scene.
Together, the four cities showcase the diversity of experiences that continue to attract visitors from around the world. Whether travelers are drawn to colonial architecture, world-class dining, or cultural traditions, Mexico offers destinations that consistently exceed expectations.
For Puerto Vallarta, these accolades help reinforce the country’s reputation as a premier vacation destination. Many international visitors combine beach vacations with visits to inland cities, making Mexico’s broad appeal an important advantage for destinations throughout the country. As one of the nation’s leading coastal resorts, Puerto Vallarta benefits from the growing global interest inspired by these highly regarded cultural centers.
Travel + Leisure’s annual rankings are based on the experiences of its readers, making them one of the travel industry’s most influential measures of visitor satisfaction. This year’s results reflect Mexico’s continued ability to offer authentic experiences, exceptional hospitality, and unforgettable places to explore.
The complete list of winners is available on the Travel + Leisure website and will appear in the magazine’s August issue, which hits newsstands on July 17.
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