Globally, numerous cities beginning with the letter ‘Y’ offer distinct characteristics and charm. Prominent among these are Yangon, Yokohama, Yunfu, Yekaterinburg, Yaoundé, and Yangjiang, each renowned for its unique qualities. Meanwhile, cities like Yerevan and Yogyakarta stand out for their contemporary architectural marvels and renowned hospitality.
Whether you seek cultural richness, modernity, or historical depth, you’re certain to find a ‘Y’-starting city that perfectly aligns with your preferences in this diverse compilation.
Popular Destinations/Places That Starting with Y
Explore our comprehensive guide featuring popular vacation spots and an extensive directory of countries, regions, and key locations beginning with ‘Y’. Choose your next travel destination from this list to uncover insights about the climate and tips on securing holiday packages, flights, accommodations, and more, all at advantageous prices.
Places and Cities That Start With Y in the United States
1. Yonkers, New York
Yonkers, located directly north of New York City, is known for its cultural diversity and vibrant history. It boasts a scenic waterfront along the Hudson River, a variety of historic sites, and an array of dining and entertainment options. Yonkers also features beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, uniquely blending urban and natural landscapes.
2. Yakima, Washington
Situated in Central Washington, Yakima is famous for its wineries and apple orchards. The city is a major agricultural hub, especially known for producing a significant percentage of the nation’s hops and apples. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the nearby Cascade Mountains and the Yakima River, which offer great opportunities for hiking, biking, and fishing.
3. Ypsilanti, Michigan
Ypsilanti, often called “Ypsi” by locals, is a small city with a rich history and a strong sense of community. Known for its historic architecture, including the iconic Ypsilanti Water Tower, the city is home to Eastern Michigan University. Ypsilanti also hosts numerous arts and cultural events throughout the year, adding to its charming and eclectic atmosphere.
4. Yuma, Arizona
Yuma is a city in the southwestern corner of Arizona, known for its sunny weather and as a popular destination for winter visitors. It has a significant role in agriculture, particularly in lettuce production. The city’s history is deeply rooted in the Old West, and it’s home to several historical sites, including the Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park.
5. York, Pennsylvania
York, also known as the White Rose City, is a historic city in Pennsylvania. It played a crucial role during the American Revolution and is home to various historic buildings and museums. York is also known for its manufacturing industry, particularly in the production of barbells and motorcycles. The city hosts a vibrant arts scene and numerous cultural festivals throughout the year.
6. Youngstown, Ohio
Youngstown, once a major steel production center, has transformed into a city with a focus on art, culture, and education. The city’s rich industrial history is still visible in its architecture and museums. Youngstown State University adds a youthful energy to the area, and the city is also known for its beautiful parks, including Mill Creek Park, one of the largest municipally owned parks in the country.
7. Yuba City, California
Located in the Sacramento Valley, Yuba City is known for its agricultural richness, particularly in fruit and nut orchards. The city serves as a cultural and economic hub in the region and is noted for its diverse community. The annual Sikh Parade, one of the largest Sikh festivals in the United States, is a major attraction, showcasing the city’s multicultural heritage.
8. Yankton, South Dakota
Yankton, situated on the Missouri River, is historically significant as the former capital of the Dakota Territory. Today, it is a hub for outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and archery. The city is also home to the National Field Archery Association headquarters. Yankton’s riverfront and historic downtown area offer a picturesque setting and a glimpse into the region’s past.
9. Yorktown, Virginia
Yorktown is famously known for the Siege of Yorktown, the decisive battle in the American Revolutionary War. Rich in colonial history, the city is part of the Historic Triangle, along with Jamestown and Williamsburg. Visitors can explore the Yorktown Battlefield, the Yorktown Victory Center, and the scenic waterfront area.
10. Yorba Linda, California
Yorba Linda is known for its suburban charm and as the birthplace of President Richard Nixon. The city is home to the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum, a major attraction. Yorba Linda boasts a high quality of life with its excellent schools, numerous parks, and horse trails, reflecting its history as a rural community.
Places and Cities That Start With Y in the United Kingdom
The United Kingdom, with its rich history and diverse landscapes, has several notable places and cities that start with the letter “Y.” Here are some of them:
11. York, England: One of the most historic cities in the UK, York is renowned for its ancient walls, York Minster (one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Europe), and its Viking heritage. The city’s architecture and cobbled streets offer a glimpse into its Roman and medieval past.
12. Yeovil, Somerset, England: This town is known for its aeronautical and defense industries. Yeovil also has a rich history, with several historic churches and buildings, and is close to the scenic countryside of Somerset.
13. Yarmouth, Isle of Wight, England: A small port town and one of the gateways to the Isle of Wight, Yarmouth is known for its historic castle, built by Henry VIII, and its picturesque harbor.
14. Yarm, North Yorkshire, England: This small town in North Yorkshire is known for its high street with Georgian-style architecture, and the Yarm Viaduct, a notable railway bridge.
15. Yelverton, Devon, England: Yelverton is a large village in the Dartmoor National Park. It’s known for its proximity to beautiful natural landscapes and historic sites.
16. Yate, South Gloucestershire, England: A town near Bristol, Yate has a history going back to the Iron Age. Today, it’s a bustling town with shopping centers and recreational facilities.
17. Yetholm, Scottish Borders, Scotland: Located near the England-Scotland border, Yetholm consists of two villages – Town Yetholm and Kirk Yetholm. It’s known for its scenic beauty and as a terminus of the Pennine Way walking trail.
18. Ystradgynlais, Powys, Wales: A town situated on the edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park in Wales, Ystradgynlais is known for its natural beauty and industrial heritage, particularly in coal mining.
19. Ynysybwl, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Wales: This small village in Wales has a strong community spirit and is surrounded by picturesque Welsh countryside.
20. Y Felinheli, Gwynedd, Wales: Previously known as Port Dinorwic, this village in North Wales is located on the Menai Strait between Bangor and Caernarfon. It’s known for its marina and historical significance in the slate industry.
Places and Cities That Start With Y in Canada
Canada, with its vast and diverse landscape, is home to several cities and places starting with the letter “Y.” Here are some of them:
21. Yellowknife, Northwest Territories: As the capital and largest city of the Northwest Territories, Yellowknife is famous for its vibrant Indigenous culture, stunning northern lights, and as a gateway to the Arctic wilderness. It’s a hub for mining and is situated on the northern shore of Great Slave Lake.
22. Yarmouth, Nova Scotia: Located on the Bay of Fundy, Yarmouth is known for its historic architecture, particularly in the Yarmouth County Museum and Archives. The town is also a gateway to the scenic landscapes of Nova Scotia.
23. Yorkton, Saskatchewan: This city is known for its rich agricultural industry and cultural diversity. Yorkton hosts various cultural events, including the annual Yorkton Film Festival, one of the oldest film festivals in North America.
24. Yukon Territory: While not a city, the Yukon is a significant and expansive territory in northwest Canada, known for its rugged mountains, vast wilderness areas, and the famous Klondike Gold Rush history.
25. Yarmouth County, Nova Scotia: Apart from the town of Yarmouth, the county itself is notable for its picturesque landscapes, historic lighthouses, and as a center for the lobster fishing industry.
26. Yellowhead County, Alberta: Located in west-central Alberta, this municipal district is known for its natural beauty, including part of the Rocky Mountains and numerous provincial parks.
27. Yoho National Park, British Columbia: Again, not a city or town but an important location, Yoho National Park is part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its waterfalls, lakes, and fossil beds.
27. Youbou, British Columbia: A small community on Vancouver Island, known for its stunning natural scenery and as a peaceful retreat away from the urban centers.
29. Yahk, British Columbia: A small community in the Kootenay region, known for its serene environment and proximity to the Moyie River.
30. Yarker, Ontario: A small village in Ontario, known for its rural charm and the nearby scenic Napanee River.
Places and Cities That Start With Y in Russia
Russia, with its vast expanse and diverse regions, is home to several cities and places beginning with the letter “Y.” Here are some notable ones:
31. Yekaterinburg: Located in the Ural Mountains, Yekaterinburg is the fourth-largest city in Russia and an important cultural and economic center. It’s known for its role in Russian history, including being the place where the last Tsar of Russia, Nicholas II, and his family were executed.
32. Yaroslavl: Part of the Golden Ring of ancient Russian cities, Yaroslavl is famous for its historic center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city is rich in architectural landmarks like the 17th-century churches with their distinctive onion domes.
33. Yakutsk: The capital city of the Sakha Republic, Yakutsk is known for being one of the coldest major cities in the world. It’s situated in Eastern Siberia and is an important hub for the region.
34. Yalta: Located in Crimea, on the northern coast of the Black Sea, Yalta is a resort city known for its warm climate, seaside promenade, and historic significance, particularly the Yalta Conference of 1945.
35. Yoshkar-Ola: The capital city of the Republic of Mari El, Yoshkar-Ola is notable for its unique architecture, including a mix of modern and Soviet-era buildings. The city has a distinctive cultural identity, reflecting the heritage of the Mari people.
36. Yelets: One of the oldest towns in Russia, Yelets is located in the Lipetsk Oblast. It is known for its historical buildings, ancient monasteries, and as a center of traditional Russian lace-making.
37. Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk: The administrative center of Sakhalin Oblast, Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk is located on Sakhalin Island in the Russian Far East. It’s known for its mountainous scenery and Japanese heritage.
38. Yuzhno-Sukhokumsk: A small town in the Republic of Dagestan, it is known for its diverse cultural and ethnic composition, typical of the region.
39. Yurga: Located in the Kemerovo Oblast in Western Siberia, Yurga is an important industrial city, particularly for coal and chemical industries.
40. Yakhroma: A town in the Moscow Oblast, Yakhroma is known for its winter sports facilities, making it a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding.
Places and Cities That Start With Y in China
China, with its vast territory and rich history, has several cities and places starting with the letter “Y.” Here are some notable examples:
41. Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province: Famous for its rich history, classical gardens, and beautiful Slender West Lake, Yangzhou is a city with a blend of traditional Chinese culture and modern development. It’s also known for its role in the history of the Silk Road.
42. Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region: The capital of Ningxia, Yinchuan lies near the Yellow River and is known for its Hui culture, historical sites like the Western Xia tombs, and as a center for trade and commerce in the region.
43. Yantai, Shandong Province: A coastal city in northeastern Shandong, Yantai is known for its vineyards, beautiful beaches, and as a major seaport. It also has a significant fishing industry.
44. Yunnan Province: While not a city, Yunnan Province in southwestern China is noteworthy for its diverse ethnic culture, breathtaking landscapes, and the historical significance of cities like Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang.
45. Yibin, Sichuan Province: Situated at the junction of the Min and Yangtze Rivers, Yibin is known for its liquor industry, particularly the famous Wuliangye brand, and its scenic river valleys.
46. Yichang, Hubei Province: An important city in Hubei, Yichang is best known for its proximity to the Three Gorges Dam, the world’s largest hydroelectric power station.
47. Yichun, Jiangxi Province: This city is known for its lush forests and natural resources, earning it the nickname “Forest City.” It’s also a center for the paper-making industry.
48. Yan’an, Shaanxi Province: Famous for its role in the Chinese Communist Revolution, Yan’an is known as the “Cradle of the Revolution.” The city is rich in historical and cultural significance.
49. Yiwu, Zhejiang Province: Known as the world’s largest small commodities market, Yiwu is a major hub for international trade and commerce, attracting merchants and visitors from around the globe.
50. Yingkou, Liaoning Province: A port city in northeastern China, Yingkou is known for its industrial development, particularly in the steel and chemical industries, and its coastal scenery.
Places and Cities That Start With Y in South Korea
South Korea, known for its rich history and rapid modernization, has several notable places and cities that start with the letter “Y.” Here are some of them:
51. Yeosu, South Jeolla Province: Famous for its scenic coastlines, Yeosu is a beautiful port city known for its seafood, the Yeosu Expo, and the picturesque Dadohaehaesang National Park.
52. Yongin, Gyeonggi Province: This city is well-known for housing Everland and Caribbean Bay, two of South Korea’s most popular amusement and water parks. Yongin is also a major satellite city of Seoul.
53. Yongpyong, Gangwon Province: Not a city but a notable ski resort, Yongpyong Resort is one of the most popular winter sports destinations in South Korea, having hosted numerous international events.
54. Yongju, North Gyeongsang Province: Known for the Buseoksa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Yongju is a city rich in cultural heritage and traditional Korean architecture.
55. Yongcheon, North Jeolla Province: This area is known for its agricultural significance and traditional rural landscapes, offering a glimpse into the country’s farming practices and rural life.
56. Yeongdeok, North Gyeongsang Province: A county known for its beautiful coastline and delicious snow crab, Yeongdeok is a popular destination for seafood enthusiasts.
57. Yeoncheon, Gyeonggi Province: Close to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), Yeoncheon is known for its historical sites and as a gateway to explore the DMZ’s unique ecosystem.
58. Yeongam, South Jeolla Province: Home to the Korea International Circuit, which has hosted Formula One races, Yeongam is also known for its historic sites and beautiful natural landscapes.
59. Yeongdong, North Chungcheong Province: Famous for its vineyards and wine production, Yeongdong hosts an annual wine festival celebrating the region’s grape harvest.
60. Yeongju, North Gyeongsang Province: Known for the Seonbichon Village and the Buseoksa Temple, Yeongju is rich in traditional Korean culture and history.
Places and Cities That Start With Y in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia, known for its rich history and cultural heritage, has several cities and places starting with the letter “Y.” Here are some notable ones:
61. Yanbu: Located on the Red Sea coast, Yanbu is known as an important port city and industrial center. It’s famous for its oil refineries and also as a starting point for Islamic pilgrims heading to Medina.
62. Yabrin (Yabreen): This area is known for its historical significance with ancient rock carvings and archaeological sites that reflect the rich history of the region.
63. Yanbu Al Bahr: This is the old part of Yanbu city and is known for its historical buildings, beautiful beaches, and coral reefs, making it a popular spot for diving and fishing.
64. Yanbu Al Sinaiyah: This is the modern industrial area of Yanbu, established as part of Saudi Arabia’s push for industrialization. It is home to several oil refineries and petrochemical plants.
65. Yanbu Al Nakhal: A small town near Yanbu, known for its historical buildings and traditional markets.
66. Yadamah: A small town in Saudi Arabia known for its agricultural activities.
67. Yatmah: Located in the Najran Province, Yatmah is a small town known for its historical significance and archaeological sites, including ancient rock art and inscriptions.
68. Yalam: A less-known location, Yalam is notable for its desert landscapes and traditional Saudi culture. It’s representative of the smaller, rural communities in the Kingdom.
69. Yaka: Situated in the Asir region, Yaka is a small village known for its traditional architecture and agricultural practices, reflecting the lifestyle in rural parts of Saudi Arabia.
70. Yamamah: Historically significant, Yamamah is known for its association with early Islamic history and battles. The region played a role in the consolidation of the Islamic state after the death of Prophet Muhammad.
Places and Cities That Start With Y in India
India, with its vast and diverse landscape, is home to many cities and places starting with the letter “Y.” Here are some of them:
71. Yamunanagar, Haryana: Known for its industrial estate and as a hub for the manufacturing of paper machinery and plywood, Yamunanagar is also close to the Yamuna River, lending the city its name.
72. Yavatmal, Maharashtra: This city is known for its cotton ginning and pressing, and is also a major trading center for cotton and soybeans. Yavatmal is also known for its rich cultural heritage.
73. Yelahanka, Karnataka: A suburb of Bangalore, Yelahanka is an important center for defense establishments and has seen rapid development due to its proximity to Bengaluru International Airport.
74. Yellandu, Telangana: Known as one of the oldest coal mining towns in India, Yellandu has a significant place in the industrial history of Telangana.
75. Yercaud, Tamil Nadu: A picturesque hill station in the Eastern Ghats, Yercaud is known for its orange groves, coffee, fruit and spice plantations, and the scenic Yercaud Lake.
76. Yadgir, Karnataka: This city is known for its historical significance, with various historical monuments and a rich cultural heritage. It’s also an important agricultural region in Karnataka.
77. Yavakapadi, Karnataka: A small village in the Kodagu district, known for its scenic beauty and as a destination for nature enthusiasts.
78. Yelandur, Karnataka: A small town known for its historical temples and monuments, including the Gaurishvara Temple, which exhibits intricate carvings and architecture.
79. Yelbarga, Karnataka: A lesser-known place, Yelbarga is known for its agricultural activities and rural lifestyle.
80. Yenugonda, Telangana: Located near Mahabubnagar, Yenugonda is known for its historical significance and remnants of old forts and structures.
Places and Cities That Start With Y in Ukraine
Ukraine, with its rich history and diverse landscapes, hosts several cities and places starting with the letter “Y.” Here are some of them:
81. Yalta: A famous resort city located on the south coast of the Crimean Peninsula, Yalta is known for its picturesque seafront and was a popular holiday destination during the Soviet era. It’s also historically significant for hosting the 1945 Yalta Conference during World War II.
82. Yuzhnoukrainsk: This city in the Mykolaiv Oblast of southern Ukraine is known primarily for its nuclear power industry. It’s home to the South Ukraine Nuclear Power Plant.
83. Yenakiieve (Yenakiyevo): Located in the Donetsk Oblast, Yenakiieve is an industrial city known for its steel and chemical plants.
84. Yuzhne: A port city in the Odesa Oblast, Yuzhne is an important center for maritime trade and industry along the Black Sea coast.
85. Yahotyn: Situated in the Kyiv Oblast, Yahotyn is known for its food industry, particularly dairy products.
86. Yavoriv: Located in the Lviv Oblast, Yavoriv is known for its cultural heritage and as a center of traditional Ukrainian folk art, especially the crafting of decorative Easter eggs, or pysanky.
87. Yampil: This town in the Vinnytsia Oblast is known for its historical architecture and as a quiet, scenic locality.
88. Yasinya: Located in the Carpathian Mountains in Zakarpattia Oblast, Yasinya is a picturesque village known for its ski resorts and mountain tourism.
89. Yuzhnoukrainsk: A city in Mykolaiv Oblast, noted for its significant nuclear power industry.
90. Yaremche: A popular tourist destination in the Ivano-Frankivsk Oblast, known for its natural beauty, waterfalls, and as a gateway to the Carpathian National Nature Park.
Places and Cities That Start With Y in Japan
Japan, known for its unique blend of traditional and modern culture, has several cities and places that start with the letter “Y.” Here are some notable ones:
91. Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture: Japan’s second-largest city, Yokohama is a major commercial hub known for its beautiful port area, Chinatown, and the landmark Yokohama Marine Tower.
92. Yokosuka, Kanagawa Prefecture: Situated on the Miura Peninsula, Yokosuka is known for its naval base and maritime history. It’s also a gateway to scenic islands and coastal areas.
93. Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture: This city is famous for its hot springs, skiing resorts, and the Yamagata International Documentary Film Festival.
94. Yamaguchi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture: The capital of Yamaguchi Prefecture, this city is known for its historic sites, including Rurikoji Temple with its five-story pagoda.
95. Yokkaichi, Mie Prefecture: An industrial city known for its petrochemical complexes, Yokkaichi also offers scenic views of Ise Bay.
96. Yonago, Tottori Prefecture: Yonago is a city known for its proximity to Mount Daisen, the Daisen-Oki National Park, and the region’s beautiful beaches and hot springs.
97. Yatsushiro, Kumamoto Prefecture: Known for its historic sites and festivals, Yatsushiro hosts the Yatsushiro Myoken Festival, a designated Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan.
98. Yao, Osaka Prefecture: Located in the Osaka metropolitan area, Yao is an industrial city with a rich history, including ancient burial mounds known as kofun.
99. Yamato, Kanagawa Prefecture: A city known for its cultural sites, including several ancient tombs and the Yamato Museum, which focuses on maritime history.
100. Yuzawa, Akita Prefecture: A popular destination for skiing and snowboarding, Yuzawa is also famous for its hot springs and the annual Namahage Festival, a traditional event featuring demon-like beings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is special about Yekaterinburg, Russia?
Yekaterinburg is known for its position on the border of Europe and Asia, its rich cultural scene, and the site where the last Russian Tsar and his family were executed. It’s a significant industrial and cultural center in the Ural region.
2. Can I visit historical sites in York, England?
Absolutely! York is renowned for its rich history, exemplified by the York Minster, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Europe, ancient city walls, and Viking heritage at the Jorvik Viking Centre.
3. What are the main attractions in Yalta, Ukraine?
Yalta is famous for its beautiful seafront, the Livadia Palace (the site of the Yalta Conference in 1945), and its role as a popular resort destination with a mild climate and scenic beaches.
4. Is Yokohama, Japan, a good place for tourists?
Yes, Yokohama offers a range of attractions for tourists, including the Minato Mirai district, Yokohama Chinatown, and the beautiful Sankeien Garden. It’s also known for its stunning waterfront and modern architecture.
5. What is unique about Yellowknife, Canada?
Yellowknife is the capital of Canada’s Northwest Territories and is known for its vibrant Indigenous culture, spectacular Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis), and as a gateway to the Arctic wilderness.
6. Are there any famous festivals in Yogyakarta, Indonesia?
Yogyakarta is known for its cultural events and festivals, such as the Yogyakarta Arts Festival and the Wayang Kulit shadow puppet performances, reflecting the city’s rich cultural heritage.
7. What can I explore in Yichang, China?
Yichang is known primarily for its proximity to the Three Gorges Dam, the world’s largest hydroelectric power station. It’s also a gateway to explore the stunning scenery of the Yangtze River.
8. What is Yerevan, Armenia is known for?
Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, is known for its Soviet-era architecture, vibrant café culture, and landmarks such as the Cascade Complex and the Matenadaran library.
9. Is Yaroslavl, Russia, worth visiting?
Definitely, as part of the Golden Ring cities of Russia, Yaroslavl boasts a UNESCO World Heritage historic center, beautiful churches, and a rich cultural history.
10. What activities can I do in Yosemite City, near Yosemite National Park, USA?
While not a city, the area around Yosemite National Park offers hiking, rock climbing, wildlife watching, and breathtaking views of natural wonders like Yosemite Falls and Half Dome.
Conclusion
Cities around the world that start with the letter “Y” offer a fascinating array of attractions and cultural experiences. From the historical streets of York in England to the vibrant cultural tapestry of Yogyakarta in Indonesia, and from the industrial might of Yekaterinburg in Russia to the stunning natural beauty near Yellowknife in Canada, these cities represent the diverse and rich tapestry of global civilization. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or modern urban experiences, these “Y” cities provide a unique window into the varied aspects of our world, each with its own story to tell and experience to offer.
