This SA neighbourhood named one of the coolest in the world
A South African neighbourhood has made the list of the 39 coolest neighbourhoods in the world for 2025.
What really makes a neighbourhood cool?
According to TimeOut, a cool neighbourhood is one that represents the soul of the city it belongs to, while still having its own unique character.
When evaluating how cool a neighbourhood is, factors such as nightlife, art, culture, and affordable food and drink are highly considered.
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But beyond that, it's about a place where diversity thrives, independent businesses flourish, and old-school charm meets the "newest avant-garde art spaces."
South Africa's entry on the list
While there are several South African suburbs that could fit this description, only one was able to secure a spot on the world ranking.
TimeOut compiled the definitive list thanks to its vast network of writers and editors from across the globe.
To create the list, the 39 coolest neighbourhoods were ranked according to several factors, including:
- Culture
- Community
- Liveability
- Nightlife
- Food and drink
- Street life
- A sense of 'nowness'
After the full ranking was completed, one South African neighbourhood proudly earned a spot on the international list.
Linden claims 17th spot
Claiming 17th place, Linden in Johannesburg, Gauteng, was named one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the world.
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Linden is described as "leafy, laid-back, and quietly cool," where old-school character meets fresh creativity.
The area is filled with mid-century homes, artisan bakeries, quirky boutiques, vibey coffee spots, and lively bars and eateries.
The full list of the world's coolest neighbourhoods:
- Jimbōchō, Tokyo
- Borgerhout, Antwerp
- Barra Funda, São Paulo
- Camberwell, London
- Avondale, Chicago
- Mullae-dong, Seoul
- Ménilmontant, Paris
- Nakatsu, Osaka
- Vallila, Helsinki
- Labone, Accra
- Nguyen Thai Binh, Ho Chi Minh City
- Anjos, Lisbon
- Digbeth, Birmingham
- Red Hook, New York
- Perpetuo Socorro, Medellín
- Burwood, Sydney
- Linden, Johannesburg
- Former French Concession, Shanghai
- Quartieri Spagnoli, Naples
- Bencoolen, Singapore
- Endoume, Marseille
- Plateau-Mont-Royal, Montréal
- The Liberties, Dublin
- North Melbourne, Melbourne
- Portales, Mexico City
- Davenport, Toronto
- Little River, Miami
- Kemang, Jakarta
- Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro
- Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
- Barranco, Lima
- Mont Kiara, Kuala Lumpur
- Clarksville, Austin
- Margit-negyed, Budapest
- Glen Park, San Francisco
- MiZa, Abu Dhabi
- Villa Devoto, Buenos Aires
- Mehrauli, Delhi
- Poblacion, Metro Manila
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Images: Gauteng Tourism