Melbourne has officially been crowned the Best City in the World for 2026 according to Time Out – and if you’ve spent any time exploring this incredible city, it probably doesn’t come as a shock.
More than 24,000 people from around the world were surveyed about what makes their city special – from food and nightlife to culture, happiness and overall vibe. When all the responses were tallied, Melbourne came out on top, beating major global cities like London, New York and Tokyo.
But honestly… for those of us who live here, it just makes sense.
As a Melbourne mum of five, and after 12 years of exploring this city with our kids through Melbourne With Kidz, I’ve seen firsthand what makes Melbourne so special.
Melbourne is the kind of place where every weekend feels like there’s something new to discover.
One day you might be wandering through colourful laneways filled with street art and tiny cafes. The next you’re heading to a festival, exploring a museum, discovering a new playground or enjoying a family event happening somewhere across the city.
Melbourne locals themselves rated the city incredibly highly for its food scene, arts and culture, with more than 90% of people praising the incredible dining and cultural experiences available here.
And honestly… that tracks.
Melbourne’s food scene alone could keep you busy for years. From iconic brunch spots and multicultural eateries to hidden hole-in-the-wall restaurants you discover by accident, the city truly celebrates food from every culture.
Of course, we can’t talk about Melbourne without mentioning the coffee. It’s practically a personality trait here.
But what makes Melbourne special isn’t just the big attractions – it’s the everyday magic.
It’s stumbling across live music in a laneway, finding a new park the kids love, discovering a weekend market or enjoying a spontaneous day out along the Yarra.
Melbourne is also known as Australia’s sporting capital, hosting world-class events like the Australian Open, Formula 1 Grand Prix, AFL Grand Final and the Boxing Day Test.
But beyond the stadiums, there are festivals, exhibitions, food events and cultural celebrations happening all year round – which is one of the reasons we’ve loved sharing them through Melbourne With Kidz for over a decade.
There’s always something happening here.
For families, Melbourne is an absolute playground.
From incredible playgrounds and interactive museums to free exhibitions, community festivals and outdoor adventures, it’s a city that truly welcomes kids.
Some weekends we’re exploring a new park, other times we’re at a festival, exhibition or food market – and somehow there’s always another hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
City rankings will always be a little subjective. But what really stands out is that locals themselves rated Melbourne incredibly highly for happiness and everyday joy.
And that says a lot.
Because living in Melbourne isn’t just about big events or famous landmarks – it’s about the little moments that make everyday life enjoyable.
Feeling Lucky to Call Melbourne Home
After spending so many years exploring this city with our kids, we still find ourselves discovering new places and experiences all the time.
So yes, seeing Melbourne named the Best City in the World feels pretty fitting.
We feel incredibly lucky to call this city home – and even luckier to share its amazing places, events and hidden gems with our Melbourne With Kidz community.
Because Melbourne really is a city that has something for everyone.
What’s your favourite thing about Melbourne?
Melbourne with Kidz (MWK) 
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