Describe a city you would like to visit
Describe a city you would like to visit.
You should say:
- which city it is
- how you know about it
- what you would like to do there
And explain why you would like to visit this city.
Practise this cue card with a timer Use it in a full mock
One-minute preparation plan
This card needs hypothetical language: 'I'd love to', 'I'd probably', 'if I went'.
| Cue card point | What to note (keywords only) |
|---|---|
| Which city it is | 1–2 specific details: a name, a place, a time, or an example |
| How you know about it | 1–2 specific details: a name, a place, a time, or an example |
| What you would like to do there | 1–2 specific details: a name, a place, a time, or an example |
| And explain why you would like to visit this city. | Your main reason plus how it affected you—save 30 seconds for this |
Sample answer
A city I'd love to visit is Kyoto in Japan.
I first became interested in it through photographs a friend posted after her trip there, temples surrounded by red maple leaves, and since then I've watched several travel documentaries and read about its history. It was Japan's capital for over a thousand years, so it's full of traditional architecture.
If I went, I'd want to stay in a traditional guesthouse and spend most of my time walking. I'd visit some of the famous temples early in the morning, before the crowds arrive, and I'd love to see the bamboo forest on the edge of the city. I'd also like to try a proper tea ceremony and as much local food as possible.
The main reason I want to go is the contrast it offers. Where I live, old buildings are often replaced by modern ones, whereas Kyoto seems to have protected its heritage while still being a living, modern city. I'm curious to experience how those two sides exist together, and ideally I'd go in autumn, when it's supposed to be at its most beautiful.
About 185 words, roughly two minutes at a natural pace. This is an original example written for SpeakingIELTS to show structure and vocabulary—use it for ideas, not as a script to memorise. Real test cards are worded differently, and examiners notice rehearsed answers.
Useful words and phrases
- I first became interested in it through
- full of
- before the crowds arrive
- on the edge of the city
- protected its heritage
- at its most beautiful
Try using three of these in your own answer. For more topic vocabulary, see the vocabulary helper.
Part 3 follow-up questions
After this cue card, the examiner moves to a Part 3 discussion on the same theme. Give an opinion, a reason and an example for each.
- Why do so many people move from the countryside to cities?
- What problems do large cities face?
- How can cities attract more tourists?
- Is tourism always good for a city?
- What will cities look like in fifty years?
Practise these Part 3 questions
Check your own answer
Record yourself, then listen once and ask: did I cover every point, keep talking for close to two minutes, link ideas clearly, and explain my reasons at the end? The self-evaluation checklist covers all four speaking criteria.