The appeal of the biggest cities in the world
The hustle and bustle of the most populated cities in the world make navigating through them thrilling. The largest cities in the world have an electric atmosphere about them that makes just standing and taking in the surroundings an experience in its own right.
I have been fortunate enough to visit a few of the locations, and they are packed full of culture and unique experiences. So read on and grab some inspiration for your next trip. The cities in our list include the population of the surrounding boroughs rather than the just city “proper,” which is the government and legislative boundaries.
What are the most populated cities?
- Tokyo, Japan – 37.5 million people
- Delhi, India – 30.2 million people
- Shanghai, China – 24.5 million people
- Mumbai, India – 21.5 million people
- Mexico City, Mexico – 21.3 million people
- Beijing, China – 21 million people
- Osaka, Japan – 19.5 million people
- New York City, USA – 19 million people
- Cairo, Egypt – 19 million people
- São Paulo, Brazil – 12 million people
1. Tokyo, Japan
Standing at the top of the biggest cities in the world is a humbling experience. The stunning gardens and enormous parks in Tokyo make it impossible to believe that around 37.5 million people inhabit it.
Tokyo has top-notch infrastructure that makes Shinjuku, the busiest train station in the world, feel spacious. It never feels too cramped for the most populated city in the world.
READ MORE: Explore our complete Japan Travel Guide
2. Delhi, India
Delhi is one of the most densely populated cities in the world with 30.2 million people, making rush hour a nightmare. Slow down and enjoy the diverse culture in Delhi, from its population of different ethnicities. You will find streets filled to the brim with fantastic cuisine like paneer rolls, kebabs and chole bhature (one of the most popular Punjabi dish).
Take one of the yellow and green tuk-tuks lining the roads to relax in one of the 18,000 parks in the second most populated city in the world.
READ MORE: Read YouTuber’s Preeti Rai’s introduction to Delhi
3. Shanghai, China
Shanghai is a modern metropolis with a stunning skyline, amazing architecture and serene green spaces. It is no surprise that the longest shopping district in the world is housed in one of the largest cities in the world.
At 5.5.km long, Nanjing Road is a mecca for shoppers. Shanghai’s 24.5 million residents also enjoy one of the leading transport systems in the world.
4. Mumbai, India
The hectic city of Mumbai can take some getting used to, especially for inexperienced travelers. 21.5 million residents live in one of the most affordable places in the world.
Breathing space can be elusive in such a populous city, but I recommend checking out the Hanging Gardens that feature animal-shaped hedges and a breathtaking sunset over the Arabian Sea.
READ MORE: Why everyone should celebrate Holi in India once in their lifetime
5. Mexico City, Mexico
With 21.3 million inhabitants, Mexico City is not only one of the biggest cities in the world. The capital is also one of the oldest and largest cities in the Americas. For foodies, Mexico City is paradise as the city boasts over 40,000 restaurants.
Be sure to check out the Coyoacán Market for some excellent spicy street food amidst rich culture and beautiful art.
6. Beijing, China
Many think that Beijing is the most populated city in the world. While it doesn’t quite capture the top spot, Beijing still has an astounding 21 million inhabitants.
With access to local sights such as the Forbidden City and The Great Wall of China within an hour’s drive, the city is a tourist hotspot and a must-visit in China.
READ MORE: Beijing also features some of the biggest shopping malls in the world
7. Osaka, Japan
What I loved about Osaka was the walkability of the city and its numerous open spaces, making it a great place to explore. Living in one of the largest cities in the world known as the ‘Nation’s Kitchen’ is 19.5 million people, who get to enjoy local delicacies like okonomiyaki, takoyaki and negiyaki.
Osaka is especially famous for the Dōtonbori food district, that is distinguishable with its bright neon lights.
READ MORE: Discover the 10 best cities to visit in Japan
8. New York City, USA
New York City is one of the most populous cities in the world with around 19 million people, encompassing the New York Metropolitan area and several surrounding counties. The city that never sleeps provides an endless list of amazing experiences around the clock.
A trip to Times Square, a helicopter ride over the city, or a journey through central park on horseback – you will never get bored.
9. Cairo, Egypt
Cairo is home to 19 million people and one of the most populated cities in the world. The crowded streets are lined with street vendors and food carts for you to enjoy. The pyramids are only a short trip away on the city’s bustling metro system.
The city is also the backdrop of the only remaining Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, The Great Pyramid of Giza.
10. São Paulo, Brazil
While Rio is favoured in the daytime amongst adventurers seeking beaches and hikes, the concrete jungle of Sao Paulo comes alive at night. The buzzing nightlife scene, enjoyed by its 12 million residents, is a major draw of the city.
Check out the São Paulo Museum of Art, it is one of the best museums in the entire country.
Which of the biggest cities in the world should you visit?
The great thing about the largest cities in the world is that they are in every corner of the globe; whichever one you choose will be a gateway into the heart of a country’s culture.
The most populated cities around the world offer an exciting experience that is hard to match, and I recommend everyone give it a try.
