Time Out has named Jongno 3-ga in Seoul, South Korea, as the world’s coolest neighbourhood for 2026 in its annual global ranking. According to Time Out, the district claimed the top spot due to its surging popularity for late-evening alfresco dining, independent shops, and thriving indie businesses following a vetting process by a panel of editors.
Top Neighbourhoods in the 2026 Global Ranking
According to Time Out’s editorial panel, neighbourhoods were evaluated against criteria including food and drink, nightlife, unique local businesses, liveability, and community.
- 1. Jongno 3-ga (Seoul, South Korea): Recognized as a vibrant foodie and cultural hub, the district previously ranked third in 2021 before taking the number one position for 2026, according to Time Out travel editor Grace Beard.
- 2. L’Ocean District (Rabat, Morocco): Ranked second on the global list, noted for its coastal atmosphere, historic setting, and local culture.
- 3. Neos Kosmos (Athens, Greece): Secured the third-position spot in this year’s global round-up.
- 4. Chinatown (Los Angeles, United States): Named fourth on the list, earning the distinction of the top-rated US neighbourhood.
- 5. Govanhill (Glasgow, Scotland): Rounded out the top five, praised by local business owners as a welcoming and culturally rich community hub.
Local Perspectives and Highlights
Tourist Anna Barra described Jongno 3-ga as a unique mix of culture and food where old and new intersect. Among the recommended stops in the district is Mil Toast, a cafe known for fluffy steamed bread where long morning lines regularly form, according to cafe employee Myung Guen.
Aimée Ballinger, co-owner of Burning House Books alongside her partner Benjamin, stated that the neighbourhood is a welcoming and culturally rich place to live and raise a family. Tommy Nicholls, owner of the local LGBTQ+ venue Adrian’s, similarly described the district as a rare hub of community and culture.
Global Neighbourhood Selection
The complete Time Out list encompasses 40 locations worldwide, featuring downtown hubs, warehouse districts, and seaside strips vetted by a global network of on-the-ground city experts. Other notable entries on the 2026 roster include Kitakagaya in Osaka, Japan; Chapinero Alto in Bogotá, Colombia; Koenji in Tokyo, Japan; Esquilino in Rome, Italy; and West Town in Chicago, United States.
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