Quick answer: This world cities that start with Q directory contains 78 city-country rows. Removing repeated rows leaves 74 distinct city-country pairs and 74 distinct printed names; Qingyang, Qianjiang, Qinggang, and Qishan each appear twice for China. These counts describe this compiled table, not every Q-named settlement or an official population ranking.
Q Cities at a Glance
- The source table contains 78 rows, 74 unique name-country pairs, and 74 distinct displayed names.
- Four China name-country pairs repeat: Qingyang, Qianjiang, Qinggang, and Qishan.
- The table has no comparable population column, so alphabetical order is not a size ranking.
- Place names may use local spellings, transliterations, or English-language forms; preserve the form used by your source.
- For population comparisons, record the boundary definition, reference year, and statistical source.
How Should You Use a World Cities Starting With Q List?
Use this directory to discover Q-starting place names and their listed countries, then verify the exact place for research, travel, or demographic work. A city name by itself may not identify an administrative boundary, and the word “city” does not have one universal legal definition across countries.
The United Nations World Urbanization Prospects 2025 methodology explains that a city-proper population can differ from an urban-agglomeration estimate. An agglomeration may cover connected development beyond a municipal boundary, including nearby settlements; national urban definitions also vary. A population figure is meaningful only when the source, year, and geographic unit are clear.
How Can You Verify a Q-City Entry?
- Confirm the place name together with its country and, when needed, its province, state, or region.
- Check the locally used or official name form with a national names authority or a reliable geographical-name database.
- For population data, record whether the number covers the city proper, an urban agglomeration, or another unit, along with the reference date.
- For landmarks, verify whether a site is inside the city or elsewhere in its wider region.
The United Nations Group of Experts on Geographical Names (UNGEGN) distinguishes endonyms, names used in an official or well-established language of the area, from exonyms used in another language. Its World Geographical Names database is a useful starting point for major-city forms, while national authorities remain the better reference for local detail and current administrative status.
Around the world, there are a wide variety of cities that starts with Q, each with its unique features. Some of the most famous cities that start with the letter Q include Qingdao, Quezon City, Queens, Qingyuan, Quito and Qom. Others, such as Quetta and Quebec are known for their modern architecture and hospitality. No matter what kind of city you are looking for that start with the letter Q, there is sure to be one that suits your needs in this list.
Places and Cities That Start With “Q” Around The World
Quito, Ecuador
The capital of Ecuador, Quito is one of the highest capitals in the world, at 9,350 feet above sea level. It’s also one of the oldest cities in South America, having been founded in the early 16th century. Quito’s Spanish colonial architecture is well-preserved, and the city is filled with churches, plazas, and museums.
Quezon City, Philippines
The most populous city in the Philippines, Quezon City is home to over 2.8 million people. It was founded in 1939 and named after Manuel L. Quezon, the country’s second president. Quezon City is the site of many government offices, as well as the University of the Philippines.
Quetzaltenango, Guatemala
The second-largest city in Guatemala, Quetzaltenango is located in the western part of the country. It was founded in the 16th century and is known for its Spanish colonial architecture. Quetzaltenango is also a popular tourist destination for its nearby volcanoes and hot springs.
Qingdao, China
A coastal city in eastern China, Qingdao is best known for its Tsingtao Brewery, the first brewery in China. Founded in 1903 by German settlers, Qingdao has a long history of German influence. Today, the city is a popular tourist destination, with its beaches, parks, and temples.
Qazvin, Iran
Nestled amidst the foothills of the Alborz Mountains, Qazvin is a treasure trove of Iranian history and culture. Dating back to the 6th century BCE, it served as a strategic Silk Road waypoint, fostering an exchange of ideas and influences reflected in its architecture.
- Grand Caravanserais: Step back in time at the Sa’dabad Caravanserai, a 15th-century masterpiece with intricate brickwork and courtyards that once sheltered weary travelers. Imagine merchants haggling over spices and silks, their camels resting in the caravanserai’s stables.
- Majestic Mosques: Qazvin boasts stunning mosques showcasing diverse architectural styles. The Jameh Mosque, with its turquoise dome and towering minarets, blends Seljuk and Timurid influences. Meanwhile, the Masoumeh Mosque, adorned with exquisite tilework and calligraphy, reflects Qajar artistry.
- Vibrant Bazaars: Immerse yourselves in the lively atmosphere of the traditional bazaars. Wander through narrow alleyways lined with shops overflowing with carpets, spices, and handicrafts. Haggle for treasures like hand-painted miniatures or Qazvin’s famous halva, a sweet treat made with sesame seeds and pistachios.
Qo’qon, Uzbekistan
Qo’qon, Uzbekistan’s second-largest city, pulsates with energy and rich Ferghana Valley history. Founded in the 10th century, it flourished as a center of the silk trade and the Khanate of Kokand, leaving behind a legacy of grand architecture and vibrant traditions.
- Khan’s Palace: Explore the opulent Khan’s Palace, a testament to Kokand’s past grandeur. Admire the intricately carved wooden ceilings, mosaic-tiled courtyards, and the magnificent throne room, once the seat of powerful khans.
- Traditional Cuisine: Savor the distinct flavors of Qo’qon’s cuisine. Try plov, the national dish of Uzbekistan, featuring rice, meat, and carrots cooked in a kazan (a large cauldron). Sample manty, steamed dumplings filled with various meats and vegetables, or indulge in non, a flatbread traditionally baked in clay ovens.
- Silk Road Legacy: Discover Qo’qon’s rich Silk Road heritage at the Rishtan ceramics market. Witness skilled artisans crafting vibrant pottery using techniques passed down for generations. Purchase a hand-painted dish or vase as a unique souvenir, each piece imbued with the city’s Silk Road spirit.
Qui Nhon, Vietnam
Qui Nhon, nestled along Vietnam’s central coast, offers a captivating blend of pristine beaches, historical sites, and Cham influences. Once the capital of the Champa Kingdom, it boasts ancient temples, serene pagodas, and a laid-back charm that entices visitors.
- Cham Towers: Journey through time at the Po Nagar Cham Towers, a complex dating back to the 8th century. Climb the red brick towers adorned with intricate carvings and learn about the Cham people’s fascinating history and beliefs.
- Beach Paradise: Bask in the sunshine on Qui Nhon’s pristine beaches. Ky Co Beach, with its turquoise waters and soft sand, is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Rent a kayak and explore hidden coves or try your hand at kitesurfing on the gentle waves.
- Foodie Haven: Embark on a culinary adventure in Qui Nhon’s bustling street food scene. Savor bowls of Bun Cha Ca, grilled fish noodles, or indulge in Banh Mi, crusty baguettes filled with savory meats and pickled vegetables. Don’t miss the chance to try fresh seafood dishes at one of the beachfront restaurants, enjoying the sunset over the glistening sea.
Qingzhou, China
Qingzhou, nestled in eastern China’s Shandong province, is a city steeped in ancient history and cultural treasures. Founded over 2,400 years ago, it served as the capital of the Qi State during the Warring States period, leaving behind a rich legacy of temples, pagodas, and imperial tombs.
- Step Back in Time: Journey through dynasties at the Longxing Temple, a masterpiece of Tang Dynasty architecture. Marvel at the intricately carved wooden beams, serene pagodas, and the colossal Buddha statue, whispering tales of China’s imperial past.
- Unearth Ancient Wonders: Qingzhou Museum houses a treasure trove of artifacts from the Qi State, including delicate jade carvings, bronze weapons, and pottery adorned with intricate designs. Imagine the lives of ancient emperors and warriors as you explore these relics.
- Nature’s Embrace: Escape the city bustle at Baiyangdian Lake, a vast wetland teeming with birdlife. Rent a boat and navigate through lotus-covered canals, spotting egrets, ducks, and even the occasional swan gliding gracefully across the water.
Qina, Egypt
Qina, nestled along the Nile River in southern Egypt, offers a glimpse into ancient Egyptian life and breathtaking natural beauty. Home to the iconic Temple of Kom Ombo, dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek and falcon god Haroeris, it’s a city where myths and reality intertwine.
- Temple of the Gods: Stand in awe before the Temple of Kom Ombo, a marvel of Greco-Roman architecture. Explore the hieroglyph-covered walls, admire the colossal statues of Sobek and Haroeris, and imagine the ancient rituals performed within these sacred halls.
- Nile’s Enchantment: Sail down the Nile River, the lifeblood of Egypt, and witness the verdant farmland and traditional villages lining its banks. Spot ibis birds flitting among the reeds, children playing amidst palm trees, and farmers tending their crops under the warm Egyptian sun.
- Spice Bazaar Delights: Immerse yourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Qina’s spice bazaar. Haggle for fragrant cinnamon, fiery chilies, and aromatic cumin, filling your senses with the essence of the East. Sample local delicacies like “ful medames” (fava beans) and “koshari” (a rice and lentil dish), savoring the flavors of Egyptian cuisine.
Quilmes, Argentina
Quilmes, Argentina’s largest brewery town near Buenos Aires, offers a unique blend of industrial heritage, vibrant street art, and the captivating rhythm of Tango. Founded by German immigrants in the late 19th century, it’s a testament to Argentina’s cultural diversity and artistic spirit.
- Brewery Giants: Tour the Quilmes brewery, Argentina’s largest, and learn about the fascinating history of beer production in the country. Witness the colossal brewing tanks, smell the hoppy aroma filling the air, and perhaps even sample a fresh Quilmes beer at the end!
- Street Art Symphony: Wander through the streets of Quilmes and discover a vibrant open-air museum of murals. Admire the towering artworks depicting historical figures, local legends, and abstract patterns, each wall transforming into a canvas of creativity.
- Tango’s Enthrallment: Immerse yourselves in the passionate world of Tango in Quilmes. Witness local dancers glide across plazas and milongas (Tango dance halls), their steps telling stories of love, loss, and the very essence of Argentina. Perhaps even take a Tango lesson yourselves, feeling the rhythm of this captivating dance take over.
Quthbullapur, India
Nestled amidst the bustling metropolis of Hyderabad, India, lies Quthbullapur, a city brimming with historical charm and modern vibrancy. Founded in the 16th century by Sultan Quli Qutb-ul-Mulk, it boasts a rich tapestry of Mughal architecture, vibrant bazaars, and a thriving culinary scene.
- Architectural Gems: Step back in time at the Golconda Fort, a magnificent 17th-century fortress perched atop a granite hill. Explore its intricate gateways, hidden tunnels, and panoramic views of Hyderabad, immersing yourselves in the grandeur of the Mughal era.
- Bazaar Bounty: Wander through the bustling lanes of the Charminar Bazaar, a shopper’s paradise. Haggle for colorful silks, handcrafted jewelry, and aromatic spices, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of traditional Indian commerce.
- Culinary Delights: Embark on a culinary adventure through Quthbullapur’s diverse street food scene. Savor the melt-in-your-mouth Hyderabadi biryani, spicy mirchi bajji fritters, and the sweet indulgence of Osmania biscuits, a local delicacy.
Queenstown, South Africa
Queenstown, nestled amidst the majestic Drakensberg Mountains in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, is an adventurer’s paradise. From white-water rafting on the thundering Umzimvubu River to bungee jumping off the Bloukrans Bridge, the highest commercial bridge jump in the world, Queenstown offers thrills for every adrenaline seeker.
- Natural Splendor: Hike through the breathtaking scenery of the Amathole Mountains, spot diverse wildlife in the Kariega Game Reserve, or take a scenic drive along the scenic Hogsback Mountains, marveling at the panoramic vistas.
- Cultural Tapestry: Immerse yourselves in the rich Xhosa culture of Queenstown. Visit traditional villages, witness vibrant beadwork demonstrations, and learn about the fascinating history and customs of the region.
- Adventure Capital: Queenstown is a haven for adrenaline junkies. Bungee jump off the Bloukrans Bridge, the highest commercial bridge jump in the world (216 meters!), go white-water rafting on the Umzimvubu River, or try your hand at kloofing (canyoning) in the dramatic gorges.
Queluz, Portugal
Queluz, a charming town nestled just outside Lisbon, Portugal, offers a glimpse into the opulent world of Portuguese royalty. Home to the stunning Queluz National Palace, it’s a place where fairytale architecture meets manicured gardens, creating a picture-perfect escape.
- Royal Retreat: Step into the grandeur of the Queluz National Palace, a masterpiece of Rococo architecture. Wander through the lavishly decorated halls, admire the exquisite azulejo tilework, and imagine the lives of Portuguese monarchs who once resided within these gilded walls.
- Gardens of Enchantment: Escape to the tranquil oasis of the Queluz National Palace gardens. Stroll through the manicured lawns, admire the vibrant flowerbeds, and discover hidden fountains and grottoes, each a testament to the garden’s enchanting beauty.
- Culinary Delights: Savor the flavors of traditional Portuguese cuisine in Queluz’s charming restaurants. Sample fresh seafood dishes, indulge in the melt-in-your-mouth Pastel de Nata (custard tarts), and sip on a glass of Vinho Verde, the region’s signature wine.
Qurayyat, Saudi Arabia
Qurayyat, nestled amidst the golden sands of Saudi Arabia’s Najd region, offers a fascinating blend of ancient history, bustling souks, and modern development. Founded in the 12th century, it served as a caravan stop on the pilgrimage route to Mecca, leaving behind a legacy of impressive mudbrick architecture and vibrant cultural traditions.
- Mudbrick Marvels: Explore the historic Al Yamamah district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through narrow alleys lined with traditional mudbrick houses, adorned with intricate geometric patterns and wooden balconies. Imagine the lives of merchants and pilgrims who once traversed these streets centuries ago.
- Souk Delights: Immerse yourselves in the lively atmosphere of the Qurayyat Souq. Haggle for colorful fabrics, handcrafted jewelry, and aromatic spices, soaking in the sights and sounds of traditional Saudi commerce. Sample local delicacies like “kleicha” (date-filled pastries) and “marqaq” (flatbread dipped in honey), savoring the flavors of the region.
- Modern Oasis: Witness Qurayyat’s transformation into a modern oasis. Visit the King Abdul Aziz University, one of the largest universities in Saudi Arabia, or explore the Al Yamamah Museum, showcasing the city’s rich history and heritage.
Quatre Bornes, Mauritius
Quatre Bornes, nestled amidst the lush sugarcane fields of Mauritius, is a vibrant city pulsating with multicultural energy. Home to a diverse population of Mauritians, Indians, Chinese, and Europeans, it’s a melting pot of cultures reflected in its cuisine, architecture, and festive celebrations.
- Culinary Crossroads: Embark on a culinary adventure through Quatre Bornes’ diverse street food scene. Savor Mauritian delicacies like “dholl puri” (flatbread filled with lentils), “boulettes” (fried dumplings), and “gateau piments” (spicy potato cakes). Sample Indian curries, Chinese stir-fries, and Creole seafood dishes, experiencing the culinary tapestry of the city.
- Festival Fiesta: Immerse yourselves in the joyous spirit of Quatre Bornes’ many festivals. Celebrate Chinese New Year with vibrant parades and lion dances, participate in the Hindu Thaipusam festival with its colorful chariot processions, or join the Muslim Eid al-Fitr celebrations with delicious treats and family gatherings.
- Natural Escape: Seek tranquility amidst the lush greenery of Balfour Gardens, a botanical haven filled with native plants and vibrant flowers. Hike up Signal Mountain for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding sugarcane fields, or visit Ganga Talao, a sacred Hindu lake adorned with colorful statues and temples.
Qunghirot, Uzbekistan
Qunghirot, nestled in the Kyzylkum Desert in Uzbekistan, is a city steeped in ancient history and Silk Road legacy. Founded in the 3rd century BCE, it served as a vital trading post and fortress, leaving behind a treasure trove of architectural gems and fascinating local traditions.
- Fortress of Ages: Explore the imposing Qunghirot Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 4th century, it served as a strategic outpost on the Silk Road. Climb the fortified walls, admire the intricately carved doorways, and imagine the caravans of merchants who once passed through these gates.
- Silk Road Delights: Discover Qunghirot’s rich Silk Road heritage at the local bazaar. Haggle for traditional silk carpets, handmade pottery, and unique souvenirs, feeling the vibrant spirit of trade that once flourished along this ancient route.
- Cultural Tapestry: Immerse yourselves in the unique culture of Qunghirot. Witness traditional dance performances, attend a “chakana” (tea ceremony), and learn about the fascinating customs and traditions of the Uzbek people.
List of All Cities Starting With Q
| City | Country |
|---|---|
| Qingdao | China |
| Quezon City | Philippines |
| Queens | United States |
| Qingyuan | China |
| Quanzhou | China |
| Qujing | China |
| Quito | Ecuador |
| Qinzhou | China |
| Quzhou | China |
| Qom | Iran |
| Qiqihar | China |
| Qinhuangdao | China |
| Quetta | Pakistan |
| Quebec | Canada |
| Qionghai | China |
| Qingyang | China |
| Qitaihe | China |
| Qazvin | Iran |
| Qo’qon | Uzbekistan |
| Qarchak | Iran |
| Qingzhou | China |
| Qina | Egypt |
| Quilmes | Argentina |
| Quthbullapur | India |
| Qarshi | Uzbekistan |
| Qui Nhon | Vietnam |
| Qianjiang | China |
| Quelimane | Mozambique |
| Qianjiang | China |
| Quillacollo | Bolivia |
| Queimados | Brazil |
| Quetzaltenango | Guatemala |
| Quan GJuc Thinh | Vietnam |
| Quilpue | Chile |
| Quevedo | Ecuador |
| Qiaotou | China |
| Quchan | Iran |
| Qingnian | China |
| Queenstown | South Africa |
| Queluz | Portugal |
| Qurayyat | Saudi Arabia |
| Qianzhou | China |
| Qalyub | Egypt |
| Qincheng | China |
| Quincy | United States |
| Qorveh | Iran |
| Qiongshan | China |
| Qamdo | China |
| Qufu | China |
| Qiaoguan | China |
| Qal`at Bishah | Saudi Arabia |
| Quatre Bornes | Mauritius |
| Qunghirot | Uzbekistan |
| Qinggang | China |
| Qiuji | China |
| Qingquan | China |
| Quibdo | Colombia |
| Qaracuxur | Azerbaijan |
| Quan GJuc Thanh | Vietnam |
| Quillota | Chile |
| Quartu Sant’Elena | Italy |
| Qaraqash | China |
| Qipan | China |
| Qionghu | China |
| Qingyang | China |
| Qinggang | China |
| Quimper | France |
| Qingshuping | China |
| Qus | Egypt |
| Qiryat Ata | Israel |
| Qingfu | China |
| Qinnan | China |
| Qishan | China |
| Queens Village | United States |
| Qishan | China |
| Qoryooley | Somalia |
| Quibor | Venezuela |
| Qulsary | Kazakhstan |
Conclusion
There are not many cities that start with the letter Q, but there are a few around the world. Some of these cities include Qatar, Quito, and Quebec City. These cities are all unique in their own way and offer different experiences to those who visit.
What Should You Know About These Q-City Profiles?
The directory’s short profiles combine historical and travel claims, so it helps to distinguish a city from an attraction elsewhere in its region. The following source checks add current context to several memorable examples while leaving the original descriptions intact.
| Profile | Source-based context | How to use the note |
|---|---|---|
| Qina (Qena), Egypt | Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities lists the Temple of Dendera under Qena and the Temple of Kom Ombo under Aswan. | The existing profile associates Kom Ombo with Qina. Keep the distinction clear: Dendera is the ministry-documented Qena example; Kom Ombo is in Aswan. |
| Qui Nhon (Quy Nhon), Vietnam | The Quy Nhon tourism authority places the Twin Towers in the city’s Dong Da Ward and Bánh Ít Towers about 20 km away in Tuy Phước. Khanh Hoa tourism identifies Po Nagar with Nha Trang. | The existing profile calls Po Nagar a Qui Nhon attraction. Use the local spelling Quy Nhon and distinguish the city’s own Twin Towers from nearby regional sites and Nha Trang’s Po Nagar. |
| Qo'qon (Kokand), Uzbekistan | Uzbekistan’s tourism agency presents Kokand’s Khan’s Palace and Rishton’s pottery as separate stops in the Fergana Valley. | The existing profile links Kokand to a Rishtan ceramics market. Treat Rishton as a separate destination rather than a Kokand neighborhood or city attraction. |
| Qazvin, Iran | A UNESCO document on Persian caravanserais identifies Qazvin’s Sa'adossaltaneh caravanserai as Qajar-era. | The source profile names “Sa'dabad Caravanserai” and dates it to the 15th century. The names are not interchangeable without confirmation; verify the exact site before assigning a date. |
Which Q-City Facts Have Useful Date or Source Context?
Quezon City: the Philippine Statistics Authority’s 2024 Census of Population reports 3,084,270 residents as of 1 July 2024. The existing article’s “over 2.8 million” statement is directionally true but lacks a reference year; use the census date whenever quoting a current total. The 2024 figure should not be compared with another city’s estimate unless both figures use compatible boundaries and dates.
Quito: UNESCO records Quito at about 2,850 metres above sea level, founded in 1534, and inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1978. This supports describing Quito as a high-altitude Andean capital with a significant historic centre. The altitude is more precise than a rounded feet-only figure, and UNESCO’s record provides a clear source for the historic-centre context.
Qingdao: Tsingtao Brewery says its predecessor was established in Qingdao in August 1903 by German and British merchants and describes itself as China’s earliest brewery. Attribute that superlative to the company’s own history rather than presenting it as an independently adjudicated national ranking.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cities That Start With Q
How many cities that start with Q are in this list?
The source table has 78 rows, 74 unique city-country pairs, and 74 distinct printed names. Four China pairs repeat: Qingyang, Qianjiang, Qinggang, and Qishan. These numbers describe the entries collected on this page; they do not establish that 74 is the total number of Q cities worldwide.
Is this a complete list of every Q-starting city?
No. The page is a compiled alphabetical directory, not a gazetteer with a stated inclusion threshold. Countries use different legal and statistical definitions for cities, and the source mixes administrative places and transliteration forms. Consult the relevant national mapping or statistics agency when official status or completeness matters.
Why are some Q-city entries repeated?
The source table prints four China entries twice: Qingyang, Qianjiang, Qinggang, and Qishan. Removing one repeated row for each yields 74 unique name-country pairs. Repetition here does not show two separate cities; confirm any ambiguous place with its province, region, or coordinates.
Why do population figures for one city differ?
Population figures vary when sources count different boundaries, such as a city proper versus a wider urban agglomeration, or report different census years. Record the geographic unit, reference date, and source with every number. This alphabetical directory has no comparable population column, so it cannot be used as a city-size ranking.
Are the place-name spellings in this directory official?
Not necessarily; a directory may retain a transliteration or English-language form. UNGEGN distinguishes local endonyms from names used in another language. For example, Uzbekistan government tourism pages use Kokand while this table prints Qo'qon, and local Vietnam tourism pages use Quy Nhon while the table prints Qui Nhon. Check a national names authority for formal use.
What should I check before visiting a Q city's landmark?
Check the landmark’s current address and administrative area on an official local tourism or heritage page. A regional attraction may be promoted with a nearby city even when it lies outside the city boundary; Bánh Ít Towers, for example, is listed about 20 km from Quy Nhon in Tuy Phước. Confirm transport and opening details before setting an itinerary.
Explore More World-City Lists
Use the world cities that start with Q directory as a discovery list, then verify spellings, boundaries, and dates when precision matters. Continue alphabetically with world cities that start with P or world cities that start with R.
