A city’s infrastructure, culture, tourism, food, day-to-day activity, and nightlife are some of the parameters that contribute to making it influential. The world in which we live right now is fast. There are many cities in the world and all have their specialty but here are the top 10 most influential cities in the world that have left imprints on the minds of people and are there in the bucket list of almost every individual:
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1. London
One of the most cosmopolitan cities situated on the river Thames, it covers the Southeast of England. It is the capital of the United Kingdom. A city in which people from different parts of the world, different cultures, and traditions reside making it one of the most influential cities across the globe. A 2000-year-old city that has seen many historic events and moves.
London is also known European financial hub. The city plays the center of the UK’s culture, transportation, and economics. The city’s major attractions are London Bridge, Big Ben, the London Eye, and Buckingham palace. The Royal Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the Queen in London. The vibrant city is a mix of people, culture, and energy.
London is not only the energetic and financial hub of modern times but the city has remained important throughout the past years also. This city has seen pages of history turn and is also continuing to experience modernity in current times.
2. New York City
The most well-known and most populous city in the US resides over 8 million people. With its astonishing buildings and eye-catching architecture, the city proves to be a beautiful sight. The city is divided into 5 different regions or boroughs namely: the Queens, the Bronx, Staten Island, Manhattan and Brooklyn. In the middle of New York harbor standing tall is the Statue of Liberty.
It’s quite famous and is the symbol of social equality in the USA. This iconic statue highlights the civil war and the importance of equality and liberty for Americans. Well known as ‘the city that never sleeps’ it lives up to its hype of vibrant nightlife and lifestyle that attracts the youth. One of the most popular destinations in New York City is Times Square. It is the commercial and entertainment hub of America. This place is a total hit because of its billboards and screens of advertising.
The streets of f Times Square add to their artistic aesthetics making it the most Instagram-med place ever. The Brooklyn Bridge is also a centre of attraction for tourists. It connects Manhattan and Brooklyn. New York City is also famous for its skyscrapers. One such is the Empire State Building in Manhattan which is made up of Art deco. The Woolworth Building and the Chrysler Building are the other skyscrapers in the NY city skyline.
New York City is also known as the ‘Big apple and Manhattan is known as the heart of the big apple. In 2022 New York has the most billionaires listed by Forbes. The rebuilt World Trade Center stands as the tallest building in the USA. The older one was destroyed in the attacks of September 11. This building proves to the world that New York City can rebuild itself again.
3. Paris
Well known as the city of love, the name of the city is enough to make hearts swoon. It is the capital city of France situated on the River Seine in the north of France. The city is one of the largest and most populous cities in France. It is the city of dreams, ambition, and creativity. The city is a kaleidoscope of art, magnificent architecture, literature, fashion, and film. Portrayed as the city of lights (“La Ville Lumière”), the city of love, and the city of fashion.
Paris is the richest city at the European level and the fourth richest city at the global level. The city is also important from a historic point of view as it embarked on the French Revolution which had a significant role in shaping world history. The most famous tourist destination is the Eiffel Tower which stands as the symbol of love and romance in the beautiful city. The city also has the most popular museum in the world, The Louvre which contains paintings, sculptures, and other forms of art. It contains masterpieces such as the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo statue.
The Notre Dame, a medieval catholic cathedral showcases Gothic architecture in the finest way possible. The Palace of Versailles and the Opera House are among other tourist landmarks in this distinctive city. Paris is famous for its fashion designers and fashion shows. The city is regarded as the most creative and imaginative city in the world. Paris is well-recognized for its cuisines and bistros. It holds the world’s best chefs and one of the things which attract people to this city is wine and cheese. Paris has been a city for philosophers and poets in the past and continues to be an important landmark for literature. The city is always alive and charms people with its beauty and elegance.
The city plays a significant role from a global perspective. Its headquarters of several international organizations such as UNESCO, OECD (Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development), IEA (International Energy Agency), and more. The city is known for so many things and is unique in itself.
4. Tokyo
It is the capital of Japan located on the main island of Honshu. Tokyo has a population of over 35 million making it the largest metropolitan area to hold such a big population. Just like the Sun, Tokyo continues to rise even after wars and natural hazards. This city is a marvelous mix of modernity and traditional culture. From neon-lit skyscrapers to historic temples, Tokyo has it all; the old and the new elements.
It has been a key city in terms of new sci-fi gadgets and modern machinery. Traditional and cultural have been the heart and soul of Tokyo. This little global powerhouse hosts 51 Fortune Global 500 companies. It is also known as a busy city because of its work and job environment. It resides the Japanese government as well as the Emperor of Japan. It is the major economic hub of Japan.
Tokyo is an international center leading research and development. It has hosted multiple international events including many Olympics and Paralympics. Harajuku, a region in Tokyo well known around the world as a center of youth culture and fashion. The streets of Harajuku are lined with cafés, color full street arts, outrageous outfits, and outlandish food trends. Among the traditional temples, the Sensoji temple holds significance in Japanese culture. It is one of the most ancient temples in Tokyo. Millions of tourists visit here making it the most spiritual site in the world.
The Akihabara Electric town is a hub of anime, manga and gaming. Just like its name, this buzzing place lights up after dark. Cherry blossom, Mt. Fuji, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya crossing are among the tourist sites in Tokyo. This iconic city is famous for its world-class transport, historic temples, culture, cuisine and futuristic technology.
5. Hong Kong
Located on the southern coast of China, it is one of the most beautiful cities on the planet. It is one of the most densely populated areas on the globe. It is made up of three main territories: Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and New Territories. With its bustling malls, breathtaking skyscrapers, forested peaks, noisy streets, and exotic cuisines the city proves to be the number one tourist destination in the world.
Hong Kong is the personification of Yin And Yang, the Chinese notion of balance. The city has worked very hard to make itself a hub of trade and investment. The well-developed city strings Asian and Western touches into a global centre of culture and trade. A city where both eastern and western cultures coexist smoothly. The place offers the world’s best shopping and dining experience. Though the city has developed, it still has its roots attached to tradition and culture. It has over 600 places of worship.
Hong Kong has many tourist attractions such as Causeway Bay, The Peak, and Hong Kong Disneyland. The amazing amusement experience and nightlife attract people to this vibrant place. The city is well known for its buzzing night markets filled with delicious delights like dim sum, fish balls and egg waffles. The city is considered one of the richest cities in Asia with 68 billionaires. The city offers a unique experience to people.
6. Singapore
A city-state located in the southeastern side of Asia, at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. A city that has diverse culture yet stands tall towards futuristic development. One of the great global cities is still tightly tied to Asian culture and tradition. The city is situated on a small island but is blessed with a natural water harbor. With limited natural resources, the city has paved its way to becoming a major industrial, financial, and communication hub across the globe.
Well known as the Lion city, it has a half-lion statue known as the Merlion that guards the city. Singapore is also known as the Little Red dot as it has become one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the world. It has magnificent malls, fresh nature parks, amazing resorts, and the world’s largest Oceanarium. It has emerged as the most modern Asian city and excels in trade and tourism. It was also a major centre for the oil industry. Also referred to as the Garden city because of its clean, fresh environment and nature parks.
A multicultural city is quite famous for its food and cleanliness. The streets of the city are lined with handicrafts from different parts of the world. Fabulous food unites the people of Singapore. A well-organized place with colors of nature and modernity mixed is a small heaven on earth.
7. Los Angeles
It is Situated in the South of California, on the West Coast of the United States of America. It is a densely populated city with 18 million people residing in it making it the second most populous city in the United States. Surrounded by beautiful beaches, the Pacific Ocean, and mountain ranges the town is well known for its Mediterranean climate and cultural diversity. Known around the world as ‘home to Hollywood’ the city is the hub of the USA’s film and television industry.
The iconic Hollywood sign reflects the glamour and elegance this place holds. The openness of Los Angeles is widely appreciated. The way this city welcomes dreamers with new ideas and visions is what makes this city distinct. Among such dreamers were Walt Disney, and John Paul Getty who gave wings to their dreams and redefined success. L.A. has risen as one of the cultural capitals of the world.
Downtown Los Angeles, the birthplace of L.A., is also a hub of business and finance at a global level and it highlights one of the finest pieces of American civic architecture. Its location on the world map also makes it.m a suitable center for trade with Asia. The city also rings its nickname of the ‘city of flowers and sunshine. With its beautiful destinations, tempting beaches, and organized infrastructure, L.A. never fails to catch the minds of people. The majestic mountain ranges, gleaming valleys, lush Forests, golden deserts, and the sparkling Pacific Ocean adds to the landscape of L.A. making it a treat on the planet.
8. Chicago
The third largest city in America with a home to 2.7 million people. It is the epicenter of the Midwest region of the United States. Chicago is located at the Southwestern tip of Lake Michigan in Illinois. The city has worked hard to make itself the third-largest economy in the United States of America. It is a key hub in connecting the Eastern and western United States. The history of the city is what makes this place even more astonishing.
The Great Chicago fire of 1871 devastated the business city but the metropolis rebuilt itself as the modern global hub of trade, commerce, and culture. The reinvention of Chicago was the biggest building boom in US history. The splendid skyline, the bold architecture, and the top universities make this place a totally fit city for people across the globe. In today’s world, Chicago is well known for its nightlife, food, drinks, and art. The city is well recognized as a significant international city in terms of trading.
The Chicago Mercantile Exchange is used for trading agricultural products such as wheat and corn. Financial contracts are also traded here. The city is divided into 4 main regions: The Loop is the second largest central business district in the USA. The streets within the Loop reflect the marvelous architecture. Throughout history, one can hear the sounds of the architecture of the Loop.
The world’s earliest high rises and skyscrapers were present in this city. The Home Insurance building, built in 1885 was the world’s first skyscraper. The Willis tower, currently the third tallest building in the United States was the world’s tallest building for 25 years. Near the Loop lies the Magnificent Mile which is home to upscale shops, luxury hotels and fashion. It’s the fourth most expensive street in the United States.
Among other significant landmarks are the Chicago Water Tower(1886), the Wrigley building skyscraper (1924), and the 100- storey John Hancock centre which is now known as 875 North Michigan Avenue. The Grant Park of Chicago also called the front yard of Chicago which hosts free concerts and festivals during the summer.
A masterpiece by an Indian-born British sculptor – the Cloud gate is the modern masterpiece of the city. Its design was inspired by liquid mercury. The Art Institute of Chicago showcases the best art pieces and is one of the best art museums in the country. With its breathtaking sculptures, luxurious hotels, upscale shops and one-of-a-kind cuisine, the city offers the best to the world.
9. Beijing
The capital of the People’s Republic of China is located at the North Apex of the triangular North China Plain. The city has a long history dating back up to 3 millennia. Beijing played a significant role in amplifying China as a superpower at a global level. It has been a dominator in the nation’s political, economic, cultural, scientific and academic life. It is the world’s most populated national capital with over 21 million people residing in it.
The global city is one of the major hubs of politics, economics, culture, diplomacy, finance, business, sports, science and technology in the world. The mega city also holds the title of being one of the ancient cities in the world that has a unique history. It has been the political centre of China for more than 800 years. Beijing has seven UNESCO world heritage sites which are The Temple of Heaven, Forbidden City, Great Wall of China, Summer Palace, Ming Tombs, Great Canal and Zhoukoudian.
10. Washington, D.C.
The capital city of the United States of America is situated on the eastern coast of the country along the banks of the Potomac River. D.C. refers to the District of Columbia. The city has got its name after the first President George Washington. It became the nation’s capital in 1791. The metropolis represents a great sense of power and a dynamic history. The Nation mall is not an ordinary mall but it is a sweep of the nation’s monuments and museums.
The green strip of the Nation mall is known as “ The Nation’s Front Lawn”. To the north of the city lies the world-famous, residence, The White House. It is the official residence of the President of the United States of America. The U.S. Capitol Building on top of Capitol hill is the seat of the federal government of the United States. The museums and memorials showcase the brave history the country has had and the city sings the glory of soldiers who lost their lives in the war field.
The Lincoln Memorial, The Thomas Jefferson Memorial, and John F Kennedy’s final resting place are some of the most visited places in the city. The Supreme Court of the U.S. is also present in this politically important city. The city is also well known as the world political capital. It is headquarters the of two of the most important international organisations, The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and The World Bank.
