Two African Cities Just Beat Paris and Tokyo for Culture in 2025 – Here’s Why Everyone’s Talking

When people think of the world’s top cultural destinations, cities like Paris, Tokyo, and New York often come to mind. But in 2025, two African cities have stolen the spotlight – and for good reason.

Cape Town, South Africa, and Marrakech, Morocco, have both been crowned among the world’s best cultural cities, and their rise is rewriting the global travel bucket list.

Ranked 10th and 11th respectively by Time Out’s global cultural index, Cape Town and Marrakech are not just cities to visit – they are immersive experiences in living, breathing culture.

Cape Town: Where Creativity Meets History

Cape Town’s cultural credentials are hard to beat. This seaside city blends natural beauty with an electric arts and music scene. In 2025, a whopping 89% of locals praised its cultural offerings.

Iconic events like the Cape Town Jazz Festival, Kaapse Klopse (a vibrant New Year’s minstrel parade), and the trendy First Thursdays art walk keep the city buzzing year-round.

But it doesn’t stop there. The Dweba Art & Cafe, a local favorite, is redefining the art-meets-cafe trend by hosting installations that tackle real social issues.

Theatre lovers can catch globally acclaimed productions like Dear Evan Hansen, now with a distinctly South African twist.

And let’s not forget the city’s deep roots in history. A visit to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, or the poignant District Six Museum, offers profound cultural insight.

Add the rainbow-colored Bo-Kaap district and its Cape Malay culinary tours, and you’ve got a cultural powerhouse that’s as tasty as it is thought-provoking.

Marrakech: Tradition With a Modern Pulse

Coming in just behind Cape Town is Marrakech, a city that radiates culture from every tiled alley and spice-scented corner.

The heart of Marrakech beats in Jemaa el-Fnaa square, where you’ll find storytellers, snake charmers, and sizzling street food vendors from dusk till dawn.

In 2025, Marrakech is making waves not only for its traditions but also its modern cultural flair.

The Marrakech International Film Festival draws global talent, while the contemporary art scene is booming with venues like MACAAL and the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair leading the way.

History buffs and fashion fans alike will find joy in the Majorelle Garden and Yves Saint Laurent Museum, both must-sees for their beauty and cultural relevance.

Meanwhile, the Marrakech Art Biennale and local Heritage Days weave the old and new into one colorful cultural tapestry.

Cultural Things to Do in Cape Town and Marrakech

In Cape Town:

• Catch a live performance at ArtsCape or a show at a local theater
• Explore the colorful streets and cultural tours of Bo-Kaap
• Visit the District Six Museum and Robben Island for historical context
• Attend the Cape Town Jazz Festival or Kaapse Klopse minstrel parade
• Browse local art galleries during First Thursdays
• Enjoy a coffee and political art at Dweba Art & Cafe

In Marrakech:

• Wander the lively Jemaa el-Fnaa square and sample street food
• Explore MACAAL and the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair
• Discover the lush Majorelle Garden and Yves Saint Laurent Museum
• Attend the Marrakech International Film Festival or the Art Biennale
• Participate in Heritage Days to connect with traditional Moroccan culture

The Takeaway? Africa’s Cultural Capitals Are Calling

Whether you’re chasing the beat of a jazz festival under Table Mountain or getting lost in a maze of Moroccan souks, Cape Town and Marrakech prove that culture doesn’t need a European postcode to shine.

These two cities are more than travel destinations – they’re cultural awakenings.

In a year where authenticity and creativity are taking center stage, Cape Town and Marrakech are showing the world how it’s done. Pack your bags, bring your curiosity, and prepare to be inspired.