Cities are at the frontline of escalating climate change impacts, particularly in regions where rising natural hazards intersect with growing socio-economic vulnerability. Cities in such settings hence face an urgent need to engage in profound adaptation efforts. But where do cities stand in planning and implementing adaptation? Which solutions work in formal and informal settings? And how can the deep and transformative changes that are often needed in cities be negotiated and governed across different actors? The talk will address these questions by combining global evidence synthesis with lessons from in-depth case studies, particularly from Asia and Africa. It will draw recommendations for policy and action and identify research needs for the future.