Puerto Vallarta may not have landed on this year’s list of the world’s best cities, but Mexico’s outstanding performance in the 2026 Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards is welcome news for one of the country’s most popular beach destinations.
Every year, Travel + Leisure asks its readers to rate cities around the globe based on attractions, culture, cuisine, hospitality, shopping, and overall value. The 2026 results once again highlighted Mexico as a leading destination, with four cities earning places among the world’s top 15 – more than any other country.
For the third straight year, San Miguel de Allende claimed the number one spot, receiving a score of 93.07 out of 100. The UNESCO World Heritage city continues to impress travelers with its beautifully preserved colonial architecture, acclaimed restaurants, thriving arts community, and welcoming atmosphere.
Oaxaca ranked fifth for the second consecutive year, recognized not only for its internationally celebrated cuisine but also for its colorful festivals, artisan markets, and rich cultural traditions. Mexico City placed ninth, earning praise for its extraordinary blend of history, museums, architecture, and culinary innovation. Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco, rounded out the rankings in fifteenth place, honored for its authentic Mexican heritage, outstanding food, shopping, and flourishing arts scene.
Together, the four cities showcase the diversity of experiences that continue to attract visitors from around the world. Whether travelers are drawn to colonial architecture, world-class dining, or cultural traditions, Mexico offers destinations that consistently exceed expectations.
For Puerto Vallarta, these accolades help reinforce the country’s reputation as a premier vacation destination. Many international visitors combine beach vacations with visits to inland cities, making Mexico’s broad appeal an important advantage for destinations throughout the country. As one of the nation’s leading coastal resorts, Puerto Vallarta benefits from the growing global interest inspired by these highly regarded cultural centers.
Travel + Leisure’s annual rankings are based on the experiences of its readers, making them one of the travel industry’s most influential measures of visitor satisfaction. This year’s results reflect Mexico’s continued ability to offer authentic experiences, exceptional hospitality, and unforgettable places to explore.
The complete list of winners is available on the Travel + Leisure website and will appear in the magazine’s August issue, which hits newsstands on July 17. https://banderasnews.com/
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Casa Bay Villas is one of the leading rental agents representing villa vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
We offer the largest selection of privately owned Mexican vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta and Punta Mita, Mexico. Choose from charming two-bedroom villas, beachfront villas, or condos to breathtaking multi-level luxury villas.
Many of our Mexico vacation rentals are directly on the shoreline of Banderas Bay and are beachfront villas. All our properties have magnificent views of the Bay and the coastline of Puerto Vallarta, with the Sierra Madre Mountains in the background.
Puerto Vallarta is defined by the natural charm of its beaches, embraced by the Sierra Madre mountains; the essence of its culture, food, and traditions; and the warmth and hospitality of being welcomed like a friend. This magical destination has an authentic Mexican taste and spirit.
Whether it’s on an adventure exploring steep rivers in the jungle or a relaxing and pampering trip, Puerto Vallarta has a wide range of activities and experiences waiting for you.
Our trained staff has personally inspected all our Puerto Vallarta, Mexico villa rentals to ensure you the finest accommodations, staff services, and amenities. We will provide up-to-date information on the Best Restaurants, Activities, Golfing, Beaches, and Shopping during your Puerto Vallarta, Mexico vacation.
Our Puerto Vallarta villas offer a wide range of staff services, including a chef who will prepare two meals a day (food and beverages are extra) for you and your guests. We, along with your Mexico vacation rental staff, will be happy to organize Day Tours, private Golf Club Courses, and any activities. We can also arrange private Spa Services right in your Puerto Vallarta villa rental.
Casa Bay Villas has been in the rental business for 20 years, and we are extremely confident in providing you with the best luxury villa vacation rental in Mexico. For more information on our Mexico villas, email me at info@casabavillas.com or call me at 203-386-8022
It will be our pleasure to assist you and answer any questions you have regarding our Puerto Vallarta, Mexico villa vacation rental.