The friendliest cities in Europe: 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards
We all love a European city break, but which promises the friendliest stay? Travellers tend to choose a destination based on its lavish hotels or intriguing monuments, but dig a little deeper and you will find that the heart of a city lies in its people. Urban communities on the continent are diverse and welcoming, not to mention keen to share their beloved culture with visitors.
These clusters of friendly faces are found everywhere from Mediterranean islands to Nordic kingdoms, so we asked our readers to pick out the crème de la crème of European hospitality. Ranking from least to most, these are the top 10 friendliest cities in Europe, as voted by you in our 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards.
These are the friendliest cities in Europe, according to the 2024 Readers' Choice Awards.
Getty Images10. Naples. Score 87.81
Famous for its pizza, Naples is as rich in culture as it is in culinary talent. Expect thousands of years of history, traditional Italian cafes and people as warm as the city’s weather. However, Naples’ true charm is found wandering its old town's narrow streets, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest historic centre in Europe. Explore the picturesque squares and ancient castles, all under the watchful eye of looming Mount Vesuvius.
Getty Images9. Milan. Score 88.00
Milan is the second Italian destination where our readers feel most welcome, although it’s not just the people which make it worth the visit. This colourful city is a world-leading hub for all things culture, famous for being the Fashion Capital, birthplace of Aperitivo tradition and home of two top-tier football clubs. The crown jewel, however, is its magnificent Duomo, one of the world’s largest cathedrals.
Getty Images8. Lisbon. Score 88.38
The Portuguese are known to place emphasis on family, a value which seems to influence Lisbon’s approach to travellers. Visitors are greeted like long-lost relations, with locals keen to share the wonderful experience of their culture. From street murals to artisan boutiques, the Portuguese capital is an urban playground for creative expression, and no trip is complete without listening to fado (Lisbon’s traditional music). Don’t miss the iconic yellow tram 28 either, ideal for a scenic tour of the city.
Getty Images7. Copenhagen. Score 89.36
Copenhagen is often said to be the happiest city in the world, so it’s no surprise that its people are good company. Community is at the core of the Danish capital’s culture, from social dining in restaurants to free swimming in public harbour baths, and locals are always happy to recommend the best spots in town. Soak up this friendly atmosphere as you stroll past the rainbow-coloured houses in the Nyhavn district, or through the royal gardens at Rosenborg Castle.
Getty Images6. Palma. Score 89.52
As the only island city on our list, Palma stands out for its slow pace and peaceful bubble, with a close-knit community of easy-going people. The Mallorcan capital is known for its postcard-perfect beaches and blue skies, but there’s a rich history to uncover, too. Highlights include La Seu, a spectacular gothic cathedral towering over the coastline, and the Arab Baths, where the crumbling remains of columns preserve the memory of medieval bathing culture.
Getty Images5. Berlin. Score 89.71
Berlin has two sides: the past and the present. The German capital was the epicentre of much of the country’s difficult history, so a powerful legacy lives on across the city through memorials and museums. However, Berlin’s modern life paints a very different picture, and diversity and freedom are championed. Berlin is home to a cutting-edge nightlife scene, fronted by the legendary Berghain club, as well as one of the world’s largest parades celebrating LGBTQ+ communities.
Getty Images4. Vienna. Score 89.73
“Gemuetlichkeit”, a German term used to convey feelings of warmth and friendliness, is often said to capture the very essence of Vienna. The Austrian capital is both cosy and elegant, radiating with a romantic atmosphere that steals the hearts of all its visitors. As the birthplace of Mozart and Beethoven, an experience of Vienna’s incredible musical legacy is essential. For an unforgettable evening under the stars, the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra performs annually on the breathtaking backdrop of Schönbrunn Palace.
Getty Images3. Valencia. Score 91.00
Valencia may not be the most famous Spanish destination, but its friendly faces have still made an impression with our readers. Named the European Green Capital for 2024, this city is filled with cycling routes, green spaces and locally sourced produce. Don’t miss Albufera Natural Park, a charming freshwater lagoon surrounded by rice paddies and the birthplace of paella. Blending seafood from the waters with grains from the fields, Valencia offers an unbeatable experience of farm-to-table dining, so indulge in these fresh Mediterranean flavours.
Getty Images2. Budapest. Score 91.88
Known as the City of Spas, Budapest is home to over 100 natural springs, powering thermal baths across the city. Unwind in 18 pools of therapeutic waters at Széchenyi Baths, Europe's largest bath complex, or experience a beer bath’s unique healing power at Lukács. The city is an architectural treasure trove too, from the baroque Buda Castle to the innovative Chain Bridge. Locals are proud of all these beautiful attractions and keen to share them with others.
Getty Images1. Stockholm. Score 94.07
Swedes are open-minded, polite and cheerful, so Stockholm’s title as the friendliest European city is well-deserved. A few days in the Swedish capital will introduce you to “fika”, literally meaning “coffee break”, but representing an important tradition of socialising more than the hot drinks themselves. Spread across 14 islands, Stockholm is a dynamic city which pulses with spirit. Even the metro system is brought to life with striking murals and installations, creating a one-of-a-kind gallery which spans 110 kilometres.