Whether you’re planning your life after retirement or taking a vacation to prevent burnout, choosing a destination for travel often focuses on one thing: climate. You want to spend your time surrounded by pleasant weather, whether it’s fresh mountain air or cool coastal breezes.
However, what constitutes “good climate” in terms of a destination? Usually, factors like comfortable temperatures, manageable humidity, low pollution, and scenic beauty make them ideal for health, lifestyle, and leisure.
If you are looking into unfolding the list of the best climate cities in the world, this guide will take you through them all.
1. San Diego, USA
- Average Temperature: 13°C to 24°C
- Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November
San Diego is a great spot if you want to experience the near-perfect Mediterranean weather with remarkable consistency and no surprises. Annually, the city gets over 260 sunny days, allowing you to indulge in many outdoor activities. You can go surfing in December, hiking in February, or dining al fresco throughout the year.
Not sure how to interpret rain chances in your forecast? Check out our guide on understanding rain percentages in weather apps.
2. Canary Islands, Spain
- Average Temperature: 18°C to 26°C
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Nicknamed the “Land of Eternal Spring,” the Canary Islands in Spain are a perfect getaway destination. Owing to their unique location off the coast of North Africa, these Spanish islands offer consistently pleasant weather throughout the year. With clear skies, volcanic beaches, and subtropical weather, the islands are a perfect spot for unwinding and relaxing.
3. Luanda, Angola
- Average Temperature: 20°C to 28°C
- Best Time to Visit: December to March
Relatively less talked about, Luanda in Angola is one of the most beautiful spots. Thanks to the cool Benguela Current, the climate is pleasant throughout the year. However, there are certain phases throughout the year when there’s consistent rainfall, so be wary of that. Also, the cool ocean breeze keeps the humidity in check, keeping the climate mildly tropical.
4. Cape Town, South Africa
- Average Temperature: 11°C to 26°C
- Best Time to Visit: October to April
Cape Town’s beauty is unmatched. Surrounded by the ocean and mountains, it allows you to bask in the serenity of nature. The city experiences a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, so you are in for a treat. Also, don’t miss out on some of the most spectacular sunsets while you are there.
5. Perth, Australia
- Average Temperature: 12°C to 30°C
- Best Time to Visit: September to November
For people who enjoy sunshine and tropical weather, Perth is one of the best cities to visit in the world. It is one of the sunniest cities globally, where you can experience the perfect balance of warm summers and mild winters. Also, beyond the regulated humidity, this city’s excellent air quality makes it stand out. Don’t miss out on exploring the Bell Tower, Elizabeth Quay, and Kings Park and Botanical Garden while there.
6. Nice, France
- Average Temperature: 8°C to 27°C
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
As the name suggests, Nice is one of the calmest cities. It is situated along the French Riviera, offering comfortable year-round temperatures and abundant sunshine. The Mediterranean weather, paired with low humidity and breezy promenades like Promenade des Anglais, makes it a place worth visiting. The panoramic views from Castle Hill (Colline du Château) are breathtaking, too.
Looking to relocate somewhere with great weather all year? Check out our roundup of U.S. cities known for their ideal climates.
7. Quito, Ecuador
- Average Temperature: 10°C to 20°C
- Best Time to Visit: June to September
Many people are intimidated by Quito’s proximity to the equator, thinking that it would have very harsh weather. Surprisingly, that’s not the case. This city’s high-altitude location ensures a spring-like climate throughout the year. It has a subtropical highland climate, so be prepared to enjoy the crisp mountain air and low pollution there.
8. Barcelona, Spain
- Average Temperature: 9°C to 30°C
- Best Time to Visit: May to June and September to October
Although a popular tourist destination, Barcelona is often crowded, but its beauty will make you forget the crowds altogether. The Mediterranean climate ensures warm, dry summers and mild, humid winters, making it perfect for city explorers. The city’s beautiful architecture and beachside cafes are its highlights, so add places like Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Magic Fountain, Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar, etc. to your list.
9. Lisbon, Portugal
- Average Temperature: 8°C to 28°C
- Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to October
A little off the coast, but if you are a beach person, Lisbon is a must-visit. With 300+ sunny days a year, this city offers pleasant weather and ocean views. From towers to beaches, churches to the city centre, there are a lot of amazing spots around the city that you can explore. Places like Miradouro Da Graca, Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, and the National Tile Museum must be visited.
10. Malaga, Spain
- Average Temperature: 11°C to 31°C
- Best Time to Visit: March to June
Another Mediterranean-climate city in the world that you must add to your list is Malaga in Spain. This is a coastal city on Spain’s Costa del Sol, where over 320 days in the year are sunny. The spring season is breathtaking, with clear blue skies and blooming flowers, while the winters are mild there. Places like the Alcazaba de Malaga, Roman Theatre, Castillo de Gibralfaro, Malaga Cathedral, and Picasso House Museum are a few you can’t skip.
11. Santa Barbara, California, USA
- Average Temperature: 12°C to 26°C
- Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November
Santa Barbara is a great city if you want to explore the United States of America, away from the hustle and bustle. With clean air and sunshine paired with the coastal coolness, you genuinely get to witness the serene nature of this place. From the Santa Barbara Zoo to Stearns Wharf, there are numerous amazing spots that you can consider exploring while there.
12. Auckland, New Zealand
- Average Temperature: 10°C to 24°C
- Best Time to Visit: November to April
A beautiful city off the grid, Auckland has an oceanic climate. You can breathe in fresh sea air and bask in the green spaces and nature around you. The climate is moderate and humid but not uncomfortable at all. The iconic Sky Tower offers stunning views of the Viaduct Harbour, which is one of the highlights of this city. Also, ensure to visit Auckland Domain, the city’s oldest park.
13. Valletta, Malta
- Average Temperature: 10°C to 32°C
- Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November
Valletta is the capital of Malta. Its history dates back to the 1500s and is surrounded by the Knights of St. John, a Roman Catholic order. Beyond the coastal stretch, the capital city is also renowned for its museums, palaces, and grand churches, which you must explore. While there, try the different varieties of pasta. Also, comfortable evenings are even better when paired with blue waters and dazzling sunsets.
14. Hilo, Hawaii, USA
- Average Temperature: 18°C to 28°C
- Best Time to Visit: April to October
Given how stunning the state is, Hawaii doesn’t require or await any introduction. However, Hilo is the perfect answer if you want to visit a less crowded area. It is known as the “Big Island” and is renowned for the iconic Wailuku River State Park, where you can witness the beauty of the Rainbow Falls. The rain-kissed natural beauty of this city is to die for. While there, visit the Boiling Pots, which are nearby.
15. Victoria, Canada
- Average Temperature: 3°C to 22°C
- Best Time to Visit: May to September
Consider visiting Victoria in Canada to experience a mild climate with pleasant weather throughout the year. If you are particularly fond of cool summers, this city is a great option. It is the capital of British Columbia and is located south of Vancouver. The uncharted and rustic medieval and British colonial architecture adds to the beauty of this place. One of the primary attractions there is the Craigdarroch Castle mansion.
16. Pune, India
- Average Temperature: 12°C to 36°C
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
Pune is another must-visit city in the world. Its tropical wet and dry climate throughout the year is comfortable, and its weather is temperate and less humid. It was once the base of the Peshwas of the Maratha Empire, so you will get to explore many historical places, including the iconic Shaniwar Wada. The summers are manageable, evenings are cool, and the monsoons are lush in the city.
17. Cusco, Peru
- Average Temperature: 5°C to 20°C
- Best Time to Visit: May to September
Located in the Peruvian Andes, Cusco is the gateway to Machu Picchu. It sits at a high altitude, which explains why the climate is consistent, cool, and very pleasant. It has a highland climate type with clear skies, low humidity, and a cool mountain breeze. The remnants of the Spanish colonial architecture are the main attraction in the city, so explore the central square, Plaza de Armas, etc.
18. Durban, South Africa
- Average Temperature: 16°C to 30°C
- Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November
Durban boasts a humid subtropical climate that feels tropical but without the intensity of equatorial heat, so you can have the dream vacation alongside the golden beaches and oceans. The city is known for its African and Indian inhabitants and culture, and you can also explore the colonial influences there. One of the highlights of this city is the uShaka Marine World and Moses Mabhida Stadium.
19. Tenerife, Canary Islands
- Average Temperature: 17°C to 28°C
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Another Canary gem, Tenerife offers a microclimate system where you can find eternal spring or eternal summer—all in one island. The beauty of Mt. Teide, Spain’s tallest peak, is one of the main attractions here. Also, if possible, visit pre-Lent season to experience the Carnaval de Santa Cruz with colorful costumes, music, and parades.
20. Melbourne, Australia
- Average Temperature: 7°C to 26°C
- Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November
Though known for its “four seasons in a day,” Melbourne still offers a generally mild and pleasant climate, perfect for those who enjoy variety. Much like the rest of Australia, even Melbourne has an oceanic climate, where the summers are comfortable and the air is fresh. If you are creative, head to the Southbank area to explore the Melbourne Arts Precinct and the National Gallery of Victoria to explore indigenous art.
Final Words
From spring-like highlands to ocean-kissed coasts, the cities listed above offer great weather, a high quality of life, diverse cultures, and unique experiences. These are just the top 20 cities in the world that offer a comfortable and refreshing climate throughout the year. So, the next time you plan a vacation, consider visiting one of these many spots.
