The world’s happiest holiday destination is just a two-hour budget flight away from the UK.
Lisbon, the charming Portuguese capital, has clinched the top spot in the Holiday Happiness Index, earning it the title of the world’s most joyful holiday spot. The analysis reveals that this vibrant city excels in numerous feel-good factors, with its culinary scene being particularly noteworthy.
Almost 10% of Lisbon’s eateries are categorised as healthy, ranking second in our index and surpassing renowned foodie hotspots such as Paris, Tokyo, and New York. From fresh seafood markets to traditional tascas, eating well in Lisbon is both easy and affordable.
Another mood-enhancer in Lisbon is its walkability. The city is compact and simple to explore on foot, offering panoramic views that reward leisurely exploration.
Although the city’s famous hilly terrain can mean some steep climbs, especially in Bairro Alto and Alfama, appropriate footwear is all you need to enjoy the walk. Tourists can also reach the city’s top attractions, from Praça do Comércio to Belém Tower, in less than two hours; evidence that in Lisbon, the journey truly is part of the pleasure, reports the Mirror.
While Lisbon’s urban green space may not compete with Helsinki, it still provides 49 m2 of green area per person, nearly four times more than Madrid. Nature is always within reach: the surf-friendly beaches of Costa da Caparica and the golden sands of Cascais are both less than an hour from the city by train.
With an impressive 2,828 hours of annual sunshine, it’s no wonder the city is a mood-booster. Plus, getting there won’t break the bank with return tickets from various UK airports currently available for just £40.
Lisbon has been crowned the top spot in a study investigating which holiday destinations make people happiest and why. The research was spearheaded by Harvard-affiliated clinical psychologist and holistic happiness expert, Dr Natalie Dattilo-Ryan.
According to the study’s commissioners, BookRetreats.com, a destination’s “feel-good factor” is now a key consideration when deciding where to go. A 2024 UK survey revealed that relaxation is the primary reason for going on holiday for 73% of travellers, while half now prioritise trips for their mental health and well-being.
“When we talk about feeling good, we’re really talking about the release of happy hormones like serotonin, dopamine, endorphins, and oxytocin,” explained Dr Dattilo-Ryan.
“These chemicals influence everything from mood and sleep to energy and digestion. And many of the things that trigger them, like sunlight, movement, food, and quality rest, are often part of a good holiday, if you choose the right destination.”
The Holiday Happiness Index analysed 47 destinations based on five key feel-good factors known to naturally boost the body’s happy hormones. You can view the full rankings via the Holiday Happiness Index.