When the world hands out awards, Cape Town often finds its name near the top. 

Year after year, the Mother City collects awards that reflect how strongly the world responds to our mix of culture, lifestyle, and natural beauty.

Locals feel the pride, knowing our home attracts the kind of recognition most cities can only dream about. Travellers see those awards as a guarantee that Cape Town is worth the visit.

Here, we explore the complete history of awards that Cape Town has gathered across the years and why these accolades place us among the world’s most celebrated destinations.

A Look at Cape Town’s Most Prestigious Global Wins

Telegraph Travel Awards – Best City in the World (2025, 2023, 2022, etc.)

Cape Town’s relationship with Telegraph readers has turned into a tradition. In 2025, the city claimed the Best City in the World Award for the seventh time. The result speaks volumes about how international travellers see Cape Town: a place they connect with, remember, and want to return to.

World Design Capital 2014

A few years earlier, Cape Town claimed the title of World Design Capital. The year-long programme in 2014 invited design to step into the spotlight. Across 460 projects, the city showed how creativity can serve communities. The Watershed at the Waterfront became a space for local creators to showcase their work, while conferences like Make a Plan put design and development into the same conversation.

Earthshot Prize 2024 – Finalist

The Earthshot Prize shortlisted Cape Town in 2024. It was a recognition that highlighted the city’s drive toward sustainability. Initiatives focusing on waste management and urban development showed how Cape Town can grow while still looking after its resources. The award placed the city among leading global examples of environmental responsibility, reinforcing its ability to look forward while maintaining its role as a travel favourite.

World Travel Awards – Africa’s Leading City Destination (Multiple Years)

At the 2024 World Travel Awards, the city walked away with the title of Africa’s Leading City Destination yet again. The Port of Cape Town picked up the award for Africa’s Leading Cruise Port, while hotels, tour operators, and even the international airport all earned wins. These honours are voted for by people who know travel inside out, as well as everyday travellers across the world, so they carry serious weight.

Time Out Magazine – Best City in the World (2025)

In January 2025, Time Out magazine declared Cape Town the Best City in the World after surveying thousands of people globally. Residents spoke proudly about the city’s mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and an everyday lifestyle where mountain hikes and seaside strolls sit alongside buzzing neighbourhoods. Travellers echoed the same, highlighting Cape Town’s warmth and energy.

International Tourism Film Festival Africa (ITFFA) – Silver Award (2025)

Cape Town’s tourism team also impressed at the International Tourism Film Festival Africa. In 2025, they received a Silver Award for short films showcasing the city. The judges saw a story told with heart, mixing striking views with snapshots of daily life, giving the city another platform to show off its character.

Big 7 Travel – 22nd in Global Food Cities (2025)

Big 7 Travel listed Cape Town among the world’s best food cities in 2025, landing at number 22. It makes sense if you have ever eaten here. You can go from a neighbourhood fish braai to an upscale tasting menu in one afternoon. The mix of Cape Malay dishes, fresh seafood, local wines, and global flavours shows why visitors see Cape Town as one of the most exciting places to eat right now.

Post Office Travel Money – Best Value Long-Haul Destination (2024)

Cape Town’s recognition as the best value long-haul holiday destination in 2024 came from Post Office Travel Money. Visitors receive much for their spend, with hikes up Table Mountain, drives along the Cape Peninsula, and days exploring local wine farms. Travellers leave feeling their money carried them further here than in many other international destinations.

Time Out Magazine – Best City to Live (2025)

Cape Town ranked third in Time Out magazine’s 2025 list of best cities for Generation Z, behind Bangkok and Melbourne. Young residents value the combination of outdoor freedom, diverse communities, and reasonable living costs. The city offers nightlife and food culture that keep things lively while still feeling accessible. With eighty-two per cent of local Gen Z residents expressing satisfaction, Cape Town has become a place where young people choose to live, not only visit.

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