Lisbon named world’s happiest travel destination

Lisbon has been named the world’s happiest travel destination according to the Holiday Happiness Index by BookRetreats. The study evaluated 47 global destinations based on well-being factors including sunlight exposure, green spaces, walkability, healthy food availability, and contact with nature.

Key contributors to Lisbon’s top ranking include its 2,828 annual hours of sunshine, 49 square meters of green space per inhabitant, and a high proportion of healthy restaurants, which ranks second among the analyzed destinations. The city’s ability to be explored on foot and its proximity to natural areas, such as the waterfront and nearby beaches, also played significant roles.

António Valle, Director-General of the Lisbon Tourism Association, stated that the result highlights the city’s identity, noting that its quality, authenticity, gastronomy, climate, and proximity to nature create an experience highly valued by visitors. Other notable mentions in the study included Helsinki for low noise and light pollution, Orlando for its green spaces, and Athens and Edinburgh for culture and walkability.