St. Augustine has been recognized as one of the Top 10 Small Cities in the United States by Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards for 2025. The city secured the fourth spot on the list, which was released on October 7, 2025.
“We’re thrilled to see St. Augustine receive this honor,” said Susan Phillips, President and CEO of the St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches Visitors and Convention Bureau. “To be named one of the best by travelers who have experienced our destination, that’s a testament to our wonderful community of tourism and hospitality professionals. They strive to make St. Augustine a memorable place to explore, connect, and relax. To be included in this list for multiple years speaks volumes.”
The annual awards are based on votes from readers of Condé Nast Traveler magazine, with more than 757,000 votes cast this year for cities, hotels, islands, resorts, and cruises across the country. St. Augustine was one of two Florida cities featured in the rankings; Pensacola was also listed at number ten.
Readers highlighted St. Augustine’s historical significance and charm as reasons for its high ranking. Established in 1565, it is known as the oldest continuously inhabited settlement of European and African-American origin in the United States. The city offers a range of attractions including beaches, waterways, colonial Spanish architecture, museums with historic artifacts and art collections.
Popular sites include Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum, and St. Augustine Distillery. The city also hosts events such as Nights of Lights and festivals like the St. Augustine Celtic Music & Heritage Festival and Spanish Food & Wine Festival.
Dining options mentioned include La Nouvelle Bistro, Caps on the Water, and Lotus Noodle Bar; notable accommodations include Casa Monica Resort & Spa, The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens, and St. Francis Inn.
Earlier in 2025, Condé Nast Traveler listed St. Augustine among America’s most beautiful towns while Booking.com named it as the only U.S. location on its World’s Most Welcoming Cities for 2025 list.
Florida’s Historic Coast encompasses not just historic St. Augustine but also Ponte Vedra’s golf resorts and rural communities like Hastings and Elkton along with miles of Atlantic beaches.
