I admit I have not played the game for long, but after a few quests in Markath I have come to really like both the design and the actual macabre vibe going on there.
I usually would go to Whiterun to sell my stuff and whatever but for the most part I feel that Markath fits my char perfectly, and after I get the ok I will definetly be buying a house there and making it my base of operations for my main char. I liked Riften and Solitude too but perhaps for other playthoughs...

I'm no fan of Markarth or Solitude, although some of my characters have based themselves there. I tend to choose homes/cities for RP reasons rather than personal preference.


Also, since I installed Hearthfire I've become much more fond of Falkreath.

Whiterun hold in general

Like many many people I tend to frequent Whiterun since it is a focal point for much of the MQ.

But it depends on the character I'm playing. It's kind of obvious, but when I play a thief character I tend to utilize Riften more. I went through a phase where I spent a lot of time in Markarth because I liked the house you can buy there.

If I had to choose, maybe Whiterun. I spend most of my time in the general Falkreath/Whiterun Hold areas.

Riverwood and Solitude.

I'm so used to saying Bruma because of the Oblivion forums

Dawnstar. It's where my character lives (in a house, not that cursed DB sanctuary).