IELTS Speaking Part 1

IELTS Speaking Part 1: Cities questions and answers

IELTS Speaking Part 1 questions are short and personal: the examiner asks three to five on two or three everyday topics in the first four to five minutes. These are the 8 questions about cities in the BandLadder test bank, with Band 8 sample answers for the most frequent ones and useful vocabulary. Aim for two or three sentences each: answer, reason, one detail.
  • 8 questions
  • 6 Band 8 answers
  • 4 to 5 minutes

6 answers

Cities questions with sample answers

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Pick any question below and answer it out loud in about 20 to 30 seconds, then compare with its Band 8 answer.

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1

Do you like the city you are living in now?

I am actually quite fond of my current city because it offers a perfect blend of modern amenities and green spaces. Having a sprawling park within walking distance of my flat makes the urban environment feel much more liveable and less claustrophobic than other places I have stayed.

2

What kinds of cities do you like?

Personally, I gravitate towards historic cities that have preserved their traditional architecture while embracing contemporary life. There is something truly captivating about walking through cobbled streets that are lined with centuries-old buildings, yet still bustling with trendy cafes and vibrant street markets.

3

Which city have you been to recently?

Well, I spent last weekend exploring Edinburgh, which left a lasting impression on me. The dramatic skyline dominated by the castle was breathtaking, and I really enjoyed getting lost in the narrow, winding closes of the Old Town, which felt like stepping back in time.

4

Which city do you want to go to?

Tokyo is definitely at the top of my travel bucket list right now. I am fascinated by the contrast between its hyper-modern technology, the neon-lit skyscrapers, and the serene, ancient temples hidden away in quiet corners of the metropolis.

5

How well do you know the capital city of your country?

I am quite familiar with London, having visited several times for both business and leisure. While I know my way around the main tourist hubs like Westminster, I still find it challenging to navigate the labyrinthine network of backstreets in some of the more residential boroughs.

6

Do you think cities are exciting places to live?

They certainly are, primarily because there is a constant pulse of energy and endless opportunities for socialising. You are never short of things to do, whether it is visiting a late-night art gallery or simply finding a hidden gem of a restaurant in the city centre.

Details are invented. Use the shape, not the sentences: examiners mark memorised answers down.

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2 questions

More cities questions to practise

  1. 1Why do some people dislike living in a city?
  2. 2If you could visit any city in the world, where would you go?

6 words

Useful vocabulary and tips

  • claustrophobic

    feeling cramped and uncomfortable in a small space

  • gravitate towards

    to be naturally attracted to a specific thing

  • captivating

    capable of attracting and holding your full interest

  • hyper-modern

    extremely advanced in terms of technology and style

  • labyrinthine

    complicated and confusing like a complex maze structure

  • hidden gem

    a wonderful place that is not widely known

  • →Use descriptive adjectives to make your answers more vivid and less repetitive.
  • →Try to include a personal anecdote or specific detail to sound more authentic.

Frequently asked questions

How many questions are in IELTS Speaking Part 1?+

Usually about ten to twelve, over four to five minutes: a few on your work, study or home, then three or four short questions on each of two everyday topics.

How long should a Part 1 answer be?+

Two or three sentences, about 15 to 20 seconds: a direct answer, a reason and one detail. One-word answers cost fluency marks, and long speeches eat into the examiner's time.

Keep practising

More Part 1 topics

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