October 20, 2024, 6:55 am | Read time: 5 minutes
Big cities are rough and unfriendly? Not at all! A new ranking shows otherwise and lists the ten friendliest European cities. One ranking is likely to come as a particular surprise to Germans.
Culture, shopping, and nightlife: These are just a few of the compelling reasons to embark on a city trip! However, vacationers who live in more tranquil climes are often overwhelmed by the big city, the often harsh tone, and the interaction that prevails there. For all those – and also simply for those looking for travel inspiration – the magazine “Condé Nast Traveller” has compiled a new list of the top 10 friendliest cities in Europe as part of its “Reader’s Choice Awards”.
Among them are many cities popular with German vacationers – and one German city that few would have expected to be on this list.
Overview
The friendliest city in Europe is located in the heart of Scandinavia
With a score of 94.07 points, Stockholm is the undisputed number 1 in this ranking. But what exactly endears Sweden’s capital to so many, earning it the title of the friendliest city in Europe? According to “Condé Nast Traveler”, it’s the Swedes‘ open-mindedness, politeness, and cheerfulness that create an unbeatable combination. The authors particularly highlight the cherished culture of “fika”, a coffee break with pastries that’s less about the treats and more about caring for the well-being of your companions.
In second place with 91.88 points is the picturesque Hungarian metropolis of Budapest. According to “Condé Nast Traveller”, the inhabitants here particularly enjoy sharing their beauty with tourists and visitors. Directly behind it, the Spanish city of Valencia secured third place with 91.00 points. Although it is not the best-known Spanish destination for a city trip, the friendly people there left a particularly lasting impression on readers.
German-speaking capitals surprise with top ratings
The fourth and fifth places might come as a particular surprise to those in German-speaking countries. The international readership of “Condé Nast Traveler” voted Vienna into fourth place! And this despite the fact that the city and its people are not only considered unique in German-speaking countries. In the past, it has also been voted the most unfriendly city for expats in the renowned “Expat Insider Ranking” by Internations. According to the authors and readers of “Condé Nast Traveller”, however, the term “Gemütlichkeit” perfectly captures the essence of Vienna. The city shines with warmth and friendliness.
Perhaps even more astonishing is who claims the fifth spot. Because this goes to Berlin. Exactly, to the Berlin that the TRAVELBOOK community has already voted both the most unfriendly city and the most unfriendly federal state in the past. But perhaps this just reflects the difficult relationship we Germans have with our capital. After all, it’s no secret that Berlin has long been an international favorite. “Condé Nast Traveller” also emphasizes that Berlin has entered a new era as a symbol of Germany’s dark and difficult history, and that the values of “diversity” and “freedom” are now paramount there.
Also interesting: The European capitals with the best and worst metro networks
The top 10 friendliest cities at a glance
Except for Copenhagen, the sixth to tenth ranks are dominated by southern European cities. So if you want to soak up a little warmth – both in the original and human sense – especially in the darker months of the year, you are spoiled for choice between friendly cities for a city trip.
- Stockholm, Sweden, score 94.07
- Budapest, Hungary, score 91.88
- Valencia, Spain, score 91.00
- Vienna, Austria, score 89.73
- Berlin, Germany, score 89.71
- Palma de Mallorca, Spain, score 89.52
- Copenhagen, Denmark, score 89.36
- Lisbon, Portugal, score 88.38
- Milan, Italy, score 88.00
- Naples, Italy, score 87.81