A new global study by Irish travel insurance company JustCover has ranked the world's most colourful cities by analysing millions of colours from travel photographs across 78 destinations. Lisbon, Portugal, topped the list with over 2.6 million colours detected, followed by Kuala Lumpur and Porto. India's Jodhpur also made the broader ranking. Here are the top 10 colourful cities, best times to visit, and essential traveller tips.
1. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon's colourful identity comes from pastel-coloured houses, traditional azulejo tiles, bright yellow trams, and terracotta rooftops. Walking through Alfama and Bairro Alto feels like stepping into a colourbook.
Best time to visit: March to May and September to October
Traveller tip: Use Lisbon's tram network to explore steep, colourful streets.
2. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur blends futuristic skyscrapers with colourful old temples and lantern-lit streets. The rainbow staircase at Batu Caves is a viral attraction.
Best time to visit: May to July
Traveller tip: Stay near Bukit Bintang for shopping, nightlife, and easy metro access.
3. Porto, Portugal
Porto's Ribeira district features brightly painted riverside homes and blue-tiled churches. Every café invites with warm shades and old-world charm.
Best time to visit: April to June
Traveller tip: Take a sunset cruise on the Douro River for the best views of Porto's colourful skyline.
4. Cartagena, Colombia
Cartagena's colonial old town is famous for colourful buildings, flower-covered balconies, and vibrant Caribbean streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Best time to visit: December to April
Traveller tip: Explore early mornings to avoid crowds and heat.
5. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Rio de Janeiro is known for Carnival, beach culture, and vibrant street art. Escadaria Selarón staircase is a globally renowned attraction.
Best time to visit: December to March
Traveller tip: Book hotels months in advance during Carnival season.
6. Guanajuato, Mexico
Guanajuato looks like a rainbow spread across hills, with narrow alleyways, colourful colonial houses, underground tunnels, and vibrant festivals.
Best time to visit: October during Cervantino Festival
Traveller tip: Wear comfortable shoes for steep streets and lots of walking.
7. Havana, Cuba
Havana is known for faded pastel buildings, classic cars in vibrant shades, lively plazas, and old-world architecture.
Best time to visit: November to April
Traveller tip: Carry enough cash as international card access can be limited.
8. Hanoi, Vietnam
Hanoi's charm lies in its colourful Old Quarter, lantern-filled cafés, local markets, and authentic street food.
Best time to visit: October to December
Traveller tip: Choose a guided street-food tour for authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
9. New Orleans, USA
New Orleans is unique with its colourful French Quarters, jazz culture, murals, and globally famous Mardi Gras celebrations.
Best time to visit: February to May
Traveller tip: Book hotels early during festival season to avoid crowds.
10. Medellín, Colombia
Medellín ranks 10th thanks to bold street art, creative spaces, and flower festivals. Comuna 13 is a must-visit for a colour blast.
Best time to visit: December to March
Traveller tip: Take guided graffiti tours in Comuna 13 for insight into the city's transformation and culture.
