From Greek architecture to bustling squares in historic centers, travelers have given these destinations exceptional reviews.
The world’s friendliest destinations for 2024 have been named and three of the top five are in Europe.
Booking.com used over 309 million customer reviews to compile this list. Destinations were ranked according to hospitality, services and standards of accommodation, activities and transport companies such as car hire.
The list of the world’s friendliest cities and regions is taken from Booking.com’s Traveler Review Awards. For 2024, a total of 1.48 million awards were given to hotels, rental companies and transportation companies.
The countries that have won the most awards are mostly in Europe. Italy has the most with 181,012, followed by Spain (125,611), France (124,361), Germany (86,910) and the United Kingdom (74,754).. Poland, Brazil, the United States of America, Croatia and Portugal complete the top 10.
Where are the friendliest cities in Europe in 2024?
The ranking of the friendliest cities in the world is also dominated by European destinations, four out of ten are located on the continent. Arraial d’Ajuda in Brazil is in first place, followed by Ermoupoli in Greece, Viana do Castelo in Portugal, Daylesford in Australia and Grindelwald in Switzerland.
Explore the unique architecture of Ermoupoli, Greece
Capital of Syros, a Greek island from the Cyclades in the Aegean Sea, Ermoupoli was rated as the second most welcoming city in the world. It is distinguished from other Cycladic cities by its neoclassical architecture painted in charming pastel tones.
Small winding streets wind between the historic marble Miaouli square, the town hall with its 15-meter staircase leading to the main entrance, and a number of bars and restaurants that offer an opportunity to soak up Greek culture.
The charming coastal town of Viano do Castelo, Portugal
One hour from Porto Airport, Viano do Castelo ranks third among the friendliest destinations on the planet. It is located on the Atlantic coast Portugueseit has a long maritime history which visitors can discover in the Gil Eannes, a former hospital ship converted into a museum.
The city has stunning architecture with palaces, churches and monasteries from the Renaissance, Baroque and Art Deco periods.
If you’re looking for a little more adrenaline, Viano do Castelo is famous for its water sports. You can indulge yourself on the neighboring beaches surfing, kitesurfing and windsurfing. Praia do Cabedelo welcomes water sports lovers from all over the world.
Breathtaking view of the Alps in Grindelwald, Switzerland
In the heart of the Swiss Alps, about 1000 meters above sea level, lies Grindelwald, the fifth friendliest destination on the list.
The village is surrounded by iconic peaks such as the Eiger and the Jungfrau. A trip aboard the Junfraujoch cog railway takes you to the “top of Europe” where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the region’s glaciers and peaks.
In winter, these mountains are the center of skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts from all over the world. In summer, they are dotted with countless hiking trails through the alpine landscape.
Boutique Hotel Glacier is one of the oldest hotels in the region, founded in 1864. Inside, the decor pays tribute to the ice workers and tourist heritage of Grindelwald. Outside, you can admire the Eiger from one of the spa’s jacuzzis.
Beautiful landscape in Uzès, France
Uzès, in the Occitanie region, southwest of France, is in seventh place. This medieval town has cobbled streets and the historic charm typical of the region.
Stroll through its narrow streets and discover its cafes, market stalls, craft shops and galleries. Among the most famous attractions in Uzès are its largest cathedral, the Doge’s Palace and the Place aux Herbes, its lively central square.
If you visit Uzès in July, don’t miss Les Nuits Musicales d’Uzès, a festival of classical music and jazz that takes place in the historical places of the city, in the glow of the setting sun.
Uzès is also the gateway to beautiful landscapes from the Gard region, famous for its vineyards and olive groves.