When asked to think of a top city, it might be the glittering metropolises that spring to mind. London, Paris, Shanghai, New York, Hong Kong. But upon closer inspection, it’s often the cities in the wings that are rising to international attention, offering everything anyone could want in a truly livable urban center. Boston, Amsterdam, Taipei, Berlin, Buenos Aires, and Dubai are having a moment for a variety of reasons—their cultural clout, environmental goals, rich histories, and innovative food scenes make them frontrunners as places to not only visit, but to call home more permanently. Get a taste for the six cities that are shining brightly in 2020.

Boston, United States

Full of American history and New England charm, Beantown has it all—find great dining, arts and culture, winning sports teams, and engaging architecture in this city’s beautiful neighborhoods, plus some of the best academic institutions in the country. In trendy Back Bay, immaculate brick homes are interspersed with some of the city’s best shopping and dining. On coveted Marlborough Street, this renovated residence offers a rooftop deck, a garden terrace, and a modern interior with high-end details, plus easy access to all Boston has to offer. 

Amsterdam, the Netherlands

If environmental sustainability is one of your top priorities, consider calling Amsterdam home. While the avid biking culture is well-known, this green city is making eco-friendly strides when it comes to renewable energy, reducing emissions, and green construction. Plus, you can’t beat the world-class arts scene, charming canals, and characteristically Dutch homes. Renovated in 2016, this two-floor apartment on Van Baerlestraat boasts a large rooftop terrace and a fantastic location close to the Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, and Vondelpark. 

Taipei, Taiwan

Ranked as the top city for expats to live and work in two years in a row, Taipei offers a unique intersection of tradition and modern living. Enjoy the ease of local transportation, lively night markets for sampling local cuisine, and high-speed trains that make intra-country travel a breeze, and return home to an apartment in a top-tier building in the Zhongshan District. Located near luxury shopping centers and hotels, this property also provides inspiring views of the Keelung River and Dajia Riverside Park.

Berlin, Germany

Villa Bernadotte in Germany’s capital city is a dream property for hosting, with two spacious apartments, a spa complete with sauna and an indoor pool, and an underground five-car garage. It’s also the perfect base for exploring vibrant Berlin. Between immersing yourself in the city’s rich history, enjoying traditional and trendy dining at unique establishments (think lakeside biergartens and underground bars), and relaxing in one of many green spaces, there’s really nothing lacking in Berlin—especially with state-of-the-art Brandenburg Airport slated to open later this year.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

If a vibrant, lively atmosphere sounds up your alley, then Buenos Aires is the home for you. Between the traditional flavors, sounds, and sights of the city (including Argintinean steak and local wines, tango dancing, and neoclassical and Art Deco architecture), and touches of modern and European influence, Buenos Aires is constantly reinventing itself. Stay awhile in this bright French apartment from 1914 with three bedrooms, oak floors, and soaring ceilings.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Along with its glossy skyscrapers, luxury shopping, high-end dining scene, and manicured open-air gardens, Dubai is also home to Expo 2020, a meeting of minds on innovation in technology, culture, sustainability, and much more. Call this visionary city home at this ultra-modern six-bedroom villa in Jumeirah. A wall of windows overlooking the courtyard and pool gives the property a sleek aesthetic, and inside is just as contemporary with a sophisticated dining room, health room with pilates equipment, home theater, and spacious garage. It’s a house that perfectly complements futuristic Dubai.

There are appealing global cities on every continent, and it can be a challenge to decide where to put down roots next. The good news? With options like the six cities listed above, you can’t go wrong. Though Boston, Amsterdam, Taipei, Berlin, Buenos Aires, and Dubai are enjoying the spotlight in 2020, these cities are sure to be coveted places of residence for years to come.

Originally published in February 3, 2020 by sothebysrealty