Against the backdrop of China ’ s transition to inventory-based planning and high-quality development, enhancing urban vitality has become a central focus of urban planning and design. Employing bibliometric analysis (CiteSpace) and a systematic literature review, this study conducts a quantitative analysis, synthesis, and prospective outlook on urban vitality research. The findings indicate that: (1) The conceptual understanding of urban vitality has evolved from a single-dimensional perspective toward an integrated one, emphasizing the synergy among people, society, and the environment. ( 2) Evaluation indicators for urban vitality across various dimensions and scales have been continuously enriched. ( 3) Research on influencing factors exhibits characteristics of multi-perspective and multi-factor integration. ( 4) Regarding quantitative measurement techniques, the field has shifted toward utilizing big data. (5) Studies on enhancement strategies are increasingly exploring ways to combine vitality in urban physical and virtual spaces. Future research should: establish specialized evaluation systems tailored to different city scales and spatial types; delve deeper into the interaction mechanisms between physical and virtual spatial vitality; integrate vitality research throughout the entire planning process, including formulation, public participation, and implementation; and refine the quantitative measurement method that combines big data with individual subjective perception.