Warsaw is among the top European cities of the future according to Forbes magazine

Warsaw has been included in the prestigious "European Cities of the Future: 10 Places to Visit in 2026" ranking published by Forbes magazine. The Polish capital was named one of ten European cities that offer visitors much more than a typical city break, combining modernity, high-quality urban spaces, and a rich cultural offering.

 

International distinction for Warsaw

In the magazine publication Forbes the analysis was cited European Best Destinations, which assessed 58 European cities based on aspects such as atmosphere, pedestrian accessibility, cultural and gastronomic offerings, safety, and sightseeing comfort. Based on this, ten cities were selected as particularly inspiring to visit in 2026 – including Warsaw.

Compared to other cities included in the ranking – such as Vienna, Madrid, Monaco, Geneva, Porto, Malaga, Valletta and Edinburgh – Warsaw, as Forbes emphasizes, stands out with its comprehensive approach to development, combining modern infrastructure, a large scale of green areas, affordability and high quality of cultural and urban offerings.

Growing visitor satisfaction

Forbes' recognition is confirmed by the results "„Opinion surveys of people visiting Warsaw in 2025” conducted on behalf of the Capital City of Warsaw. The cultural offering received the highest rating, receiving a staggering 97% positive ratings. The food service, shopping options, and public transportation also received very good marks. At the same time, 75% tourists declared their willingness to visit Warsaw again, and 71% would recommend a visit to the capital to others.

The Forbes distinction and the growing positive reviews from tourists demonstrate that Warsaw is strengthening its position as one of Europe's most interesting urban destinations. It is a city that combines dynamic development with a high quality of life, a rich cultural offering, and accessibility – and is increasingly making its mark on the map of Europe's most attractive cities, emphasized Maciej Fijałkowski, Secretary of the Capital City of Warsaw.

A modern and green city

As Forbes notes, Warsaw has consistently implemented its urban development strategy for years. Nearly half of the city's area is green space, and public transport is modern, efficient, and environmentally friendly. The magazine also highlights Varso Tower – the tallest building in the European Union, designed by Foster + Partners. The opening of the observation deck in 2025 has become a new tourist attraction, offering a unique perspective on the city skyline and highlighting Warsaw's innovative character.

Diverse districts and high-quality urban space

Warsaw attracts visitors with its diverse districts and successful urban revitalization, such as the Vistula River boulevards, Powiśle, and Praga, where former industrial areas now serve cultural and social functions. The city remains safe, pedestrian-friendly, and competitively priced compared to other European capitals. The average expenditure of foreign tourists is PLN 1,838 per person, and 60% of these choose four- and five-star hotels, confirming the growing interest in high-quality tourist attractions.

Source and photos: Warsaw City Hall