From Athens to New York City, wildfires around the world have brought orange skies and smog to major urban hubs this year. But the cities with the cleanest air have managed to decrease air pollution by regulating emissions, investing in public transportation, and transitioning to clean energy—making them more enjoyable, and sustainable, destinations for travelers.
A place’s overall air quality is measured on a scale from 0 to 500 known as the Air Quality Index (AQI). Lower numbers indicate cleaner air, while a higher score indicates more pollution; an AQI below 50 is considered good, while anything above 300 is classified as hazardous. In 2023, only seven countries met the World Health Organization’s air pollution guidelines: Australia, Estonia, Finland, Grenada, Iceland, Mauritius, and New Zealand.
Of course, air quality varies greatly within a singly country, especially ones as large as the United States. That’s why IQAir, a Swiss tech company, measures the air quality of cities around the world in real-time. As of November 20, 2024, the US cities with the least air pollution were Minneapolis, Houston, and Chicago—all ranking within the world’s top 10 cleanest cities. At the time of publication, Washington DC, Detroit, and New York were the US cities with the worst air quality, each with “moderate” pollution levels.
For those looking to escape the haze of their home cities while still enjoying urban comforts, we’ve rounded up eight capital cities with the cleanest air, or AQI labels below 50, as per IQAir. (These numbers change throughout the day. For the most up-to-date scores, check the live ranking here.) If it’s clear air and water you’re after, these are the countries with the cleanest beaches in the world.
Tokyo, Japan (AQI: 28)
Go for: The tranquil beauty of the Meiji Shrine surrounded by lush forest, the vibrant neighborhoods of Shibuya and Shinjuku, and panoramic views from the Tokyo Tower. Explore the historical Asakusa district, indulge at the best sushi restaurants in Tokyo, and experience the seamless blend of tradition and modernity. For more recommendations, read our full guide on the best things to do in Tokyo.