BookMyBooking's Guide To The Happiest Cities In The World For 2025

In 2025, happiness is a lifestyle goal. Safety, green spaces, work-life balance, and cultural vibrancy all contribute to what truly makes a city "happy". With global citizens increasingly seeking the perfect blend of joy, opportunity, and peace of mind, BookMyBooking's happiest cities 2025 guide is here to help you discover where life feels better.

As part of our exclusive city rankings, we've analysed the well-being index by city 2025, lifestyle amenities, economic stability, expat friendliness, and overall vibe to craft a list of the happiest cities in the world. Our list highlights destinations that score high on contentment, safety, and social cohesion. These cities lead in sustainability, healthcare, public transport, and inclusive community living. From Nordic utopias to cultural hubs in Oceania and Asia, we bring you places that prove happiness is, indeed, a place on the map.

Come with us on the journey to explore cities setting the standard for living well in the modern world.

1. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen consistently tops the list of the happiest cities in the world in 2025, and it's not hard to see why. The Danish capital has charm with bike-friendly streets, colourful waterfronts, and a society deeply rooted in trust and welfare. Danes have mastered the art of hygge, a concept centred around comfort and well-being. It reflects daily life, prioritising personal time from cosy cafés to work-life balance policies.

As one of the top cities for quality of life in 2025, Copenhagen offers exceptional healthcare, excellent public transport, and a green urban layout that promotes outdoor living. It's also considered one of the safest cities with low crime rates and a strong sense of community. The city is welcoming and accessible, with many programs that support relocation and integration. Wandering through Tivoli Gardens or savouring organic meals in Norrebro, happiness in Denmark results from public policy and a deeply personal experience.

2. Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich is one of the best cities in 2025 because of its flawless blend of prosperity, tranquillity, and natural beauty. Set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Zurich and the Alps, the city ranks highly in the BookMyBooking global city rankings for clean air, public safety, and efficient public services.

Residents benefit from generous salaries, world-class healthcare, and abundant green spaces, all contributing to Zurich's high placement on the well-being index by city 2025. Zurich also features one of the world's most reliable and punctual transport systems, making daily life smooth and stress-free. The low crime rate makes it even better, placing Zurich among the safest cities to live in 2025. Zurich will give you a cosmopolitan vibe, a diverse dining scene, and a sense of order that promotes peace of mind.

3. Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki is the capital of Finland and a place of emotional well-being, equality, and innovation. In 2025, it was ranked among the happiest cities in the world. Its citizens enjoy an unparalleled quality of life backed by an inclusive social structure and a nature-loving lifestyle.

Helsinki is big on education, public healthcare, and environmental responsibility. The Finnish government invests heavily in mental health support and social services to make the city a nurturing place to live and work. The town has excellent digital infrastructure and English-friendly systems for your remote work. Helsinki's culture encourages individuality, minimalism, and balance that resonate deeply with the modern quest for happiness. If you plan a holiday to ski in winter or swim in the summer sea, you'll understand why so many plan their 2025 travel with BookMyBooking to experience Helsinki firsthand.

4. Vienna, Austria

Vienna has long been celebrated for its rich history and cultural grandeur. Still, in 2025, it's also a front-runner among the best cities to live in 2025 for overall well-being and livability. Renowned for its classical music scene, artistic legacy, and café culture, Vienna continues to charm residents and travellers.

The Austrian capital leads the way in social housing, sustainable living, and efficient public transportation. This makes your everyday life in the city elegant and effortless. Its affordable cost of living compared to other European capitals adds to its appeal, especially for young professionals and retirees seeking a high standard of living. Vienna consistently ranks high on the quality of life travel list, and it's one of the most expat-friendly cities in 2025, thanks to its safe neighbourhoods, multilingual services, and strong infrastructure. Whether strolling through the Schönbrunn Palace gardens or enjoying a slice of Sachertorte, Vienna invites you to live joyfully and stress-free.

5. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam may be known for its canals and art, but in 2025, it's being celebrated as one of the happiest cities in the world 2025, and for good reason. The Dutch capital is renowned for progressive values, excellent work-life balance, and a unique urban lifestyle that blends modernity with tradition.

Ranked among the cities with the best lifestyle in 2025, Amsterdam promotes a biking culture, eco-conscious living, and a thriving creative scene. Its compact size makes it easily navigable yet pulsates with international energy and innovation. The Dutch emphasis on freedom and inclusivity fosters a socially supportive environment. With its mix of history, sustainability, and social openness, this is one of the most expat-friendly cities. Amsterdam is a lifestyle you'll want to experience through the BookMyBooking happiest cities 2025 guide.

6. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo masterfully balances the ultra-modern with deep-rooted tradition, making it a surprising yet deserving entry on the BookMyBooking global city rankings. As one of the happiest cities, Tokyo delivers a high-quality lifestyle of safety, efficiency, and limitless cultural opportunities.

The city's world-class infrastructure has bullet trains, spotless streets, and some of Asia's best healthcare and public services. Tokyo's low crime rate places it among the safest cities in 2025, while its people enjoy a sense of harmony integral to Japanese culture. The town offers a structured yet stimulating lifestyle, access to serene temples, buzzing shopping districts, and incredible food. The Japanese philosophy of ikigai, finding joy in purpose, resonates deeply in everyday life. If you're looking for a place where tradition enhances happiness and innovation makes life seamless, Tokyo is where to live happily in 2025.

7. Wellington, New Zealand

With its scenic harbour, artistic soul, and community-driven spirit, Wellington is a small city with enormous appeal. In 2025, it stands tall among the top cities for quality of life 2025, offering residents a relaxed yet vibrant lifestyle surrounded by natural beauty.

What makes it one of the cities with the best lifestyle in 2025? Wellington's walkable city centre, diverse cultural offerings, and commitment to sustainability. Locals enjoy a strong sense of well-being, backed by government policies that promote mental health, inclusivity, and environmental awareness. Wellington welcomes newcomers, offering a warm community and a thriving startup culture. It also ranks highly on the well-being index by city 2025, thanks to low crime, clean air, and easy access to nature. Whether morning yoga on the beach or an evening at a cosy indie cinema, Wellington makes everyday living a joy.

8. Toronto, Canada

Toronto is Canada's most multicultural metropolis and one of the happiest cities in the world in 2025. It blends global connectivity with a distinctly Canadian approach to inclusiveness, making it one of the most expat-friendly cities in 2025 on the map.

This urban powerhouse ranks high in education, healthcare, and job opportunities, contributing to its spot among the best cities. The town offers both space and opportunity to thrive. The city has diverse neighbourhoods that cater to families, professionals, and creatives alike. What we truly love about Toronto is its resilience and friendliness. Cultural events, global cuisine, and accessible public services ensure high living standards for all. If you plan to move or visit, plan your 2025 travel with BookMyBooking and put Toronto at the top of your list.

9. Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne has long been a darling of global liveability indexes, and in 2025, it's firmly secured its place in the BookMyBooking happiest cities 2025 guide. Known for its laid-back lifestyle, rich arts scene, and dynamic multicultural community, Melbourne thrives on creativity and balance.

It ranks among the top cities for quality of life in 2025, offering excellent public healthcare, efficient transport, and ample green spaces. Whether sipping coffee in Fitzroy or catching a show at the Melbourne Arts Centre, there's no shortage of things to enjoy in your downtime.

Melbourne is also one of the most expat-friendly places thanks to its welcoming policies and multicultural heritage. Safety, inclusivity, and high living standards are ideal for families, students, and remote professionals. If you're wondering where to live happily in 2025, Melbourne offers an unbeatable mix of urban vitality and Aussie charm.

10. Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm is a shining example of how progressive policies and natural beauty can coexist to create one of the happiest cities in the world in 2025. Set across 14 islands, the Swedish capital is breathtaking every season and highly ranked for environmental efforts, safety, and equality.

This city has low crime rates and a culture of mutual respect. Healthcare and education are state-funded and of high quality, adding to Stockholm's reputation as one of the best cities to live in 2025. Stockholm also ranks high on the well-being index by city, thanks to a strong work-life balance and a society that supports mental and physical health. Expats are drawn to its clean design, excellent transit, and forward-thinking mindset. From cosy fika breaks to long summer nights by the water, Stockholm is where life flourishes.

11. Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik, the northernmost capital in the world, radiates peace, resilience, and a strong sense of community. Often overlooked due to its remote location, it's now gaining international acclaim as one of the happiest cities in the world in 2025. The city thrives on harmony with nature, social equality, and a slow-paced lifestyle prioritising well-being.

The low population and minimal pollution make it one of the safest cities in 2025, with virtually no violent crime. Health care and education are free, mental wellness is taken seriously, and people enjoy unparalleled access to geothermal hot springs, hiking trails, and northern lights. For expats, Reykjavik offers a warm welcome, progressive values, and a stress-free daily rhythm. With a strong cultural identity, gender equality, and universal trust in government, this is one of those rare places where truly living happily in 2025 feels like a reality.

12. Singapore

Singapore is the epitome of modern urban excellence. Ranked among the top cities for quality of life in 2025, this Southeast Asian city-state combines economic power with cultural diversity, environmental sustainability, and exceptional public infrastructure.

Singapore is one of the safest places to live due to its low crime rate and strict laws. Residents benefit from clean streets, efficient healthcare, and world-class transport. Singapore's multicultural ethos makes it unique—Chinese, Indian, Malay, and Western influences coexist harmoniously, creating a rich social fabric ideal for expats. With a thriving economy, an excellent education system, and a pro-business environment, the city regularly features in BookMyBooking's global city rankings. Whether enjoying a walk through the Gardens by the Bay or dining at a hawker centre, Singapore offers a high-quality, balanced life.

13. Munich, Germany

Munich is the capital of Bavaria, which combines old-world charm with cutting-edge innovation, making it one of the best cities to live in 2025. With strong employment opportunities, particularly in tech and manufacturing, and an impressive public healthcare system, Munich is a magnet for professionals and families.

This city ranks highly in the well-being index by City 2025, offering high incomes, beautiful public parks like the English Garden, and excellent educational institutions. It's also one of places with a well-organised infrastructure and strong community spirit. Munich is not just about work, it's also about living well. Cultural events, beer gardens, and the nearby Alps make relaxation and recreation a big part of daily life. It's also an expat-friendly city in 2025, with many English-speaking jobs and international communities. Munich's prosperity, tradition, and safety mix ensure a happy and well-rounded life.

14. Oslo, Norway

Oslo ranked among the happiest cities in the world in 2025 due to its incredible social structure, scenic beauty, and commitment to sustainability. The Norwegian capital is famous for its fjords, forests, and forward-thinking policies focusing on equality and environmental care.

This city consistently ranks high in the se BookMyBooking quality of life travel list, with a strong welfare system, nearly free healthcare, and minimal income disparity. It's also among the beautiful places with a population that values mutual trust and respect. Expats find Oslo especially welcoming, as the city supports international professionals through language programs and housing assistance. The work culture emphasises flexibility and personal time, contributing to its strong well-being index by City 2025. Whether kayaking in the fjords or enjoying a concert at the Opera House, Oslo offers a serene and satisfying lifestyle that proves happiness can be found in the north.

15. Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver is often described as the jewel of Canada's west coast, and in 2025, it remains one of the top cities for quality of life 2025. Framed by mountains and the Pacific Ocean, this city is ideal for those seeking a healthy, active, and connected lifestyle.

Vancouver is ranked high on the well-being index by city 2025 for its clean environment, public parks, and focus on mental and physical health. The place has an inclusive culture, strong civic engagement, vibrant international communities, and accessible public services. It's also one of the safest cities in 2025, particularly for families and nature enthusiasts. From biking the seawall to skiing at Whistler, Vancouver blends urban sophistication with outdoor freedom.

16. Sydney, Australia

Sydney shines bright in 2025 as one of the happiest cities in the world 2025, thanks to its lively culture, sunny weather, and top-tier amenities. With its iconic beaches, safe neighbourhoods, and strong economy, Sydney consistently ranks high in the BookMyBooking global city rankings.

The city's healthcare and education systems are among the best in the region. Safety and environmental consciousness are top priorities, earning it a spot among the safest places to live. Sydney is a dream for expats. It has various food options, job opportunities in sectors like finance and tech, and a laid-back, outdoorsy lifestyle. Whether watching the sunrise at Bondi Beach or enjoying a performance at the Opera House, life in Sydney blends excitement and ease. Plan your 2025 travel with BookMyBooking to see it all for yourself.

17. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a lifestyle destination. In 2025, it will be among the top cities for quality of life, combining Mediterranean charm with modern innovation. From historic Gothic quarters to tech hubs in Poblenou, the town offers a mix of heritage and hustle.

Barcelona promotes a slower, family-oriented way of life. Siestas, late-night tapas, and weekend beach trips are part of the cultural norm, contributing to a high well-being index by 2025. The public transport system is robust, and healthcare is affordable and reliable. Though lively, Barcelona is also one of the safest cities, especially in its residential neighbourhoods. It's highly expat-friendly, with a growing number of co-working spaces, international schools, and digital nomad communities. If you're looking for a city where happiness is woven into the daily rhythm, Barcelona offers the perfect blend of soul and sunshine.

18. Seoul, South Korea

Seoul combines innovation, culture, and a deep respect for tradition to make it one of the happiest cities in the world by 2025. This megacity is fast-paced yet deeply connected, offering everything from K-pop concerts to tranquil mountain hikes within its metropolitan limits.

Ranked high on the quality of life travel list, Seoul provides state-of-the-art healthcare, superb education, and cutting-edge infrastructure. The city's excellent public safety and 24/7 lifestyle make it one of the safest cities in 2025 and a favourite among tech-savvy expats. The culture of respect, community bonding, and mental wellness initiatives boosts its position in the well-being index by city 2025. Whether you're visiting traditional palaces or exploring the digital art spaces of Hongdae, Seoul is a city that never stops, but always makes room for joy.

19. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon has emerged as one of Europe's most relaxed yet vibrant cities, making it a clear choice for the BookMyBooking happiest cities 2025 guide. Lisbon is a favourite among expats, retirees, and remote workers because of its sunny climate, friendly locals, and affordable living.

The city's growing digital economy, with scenic beauty and historic charm, ensures it ranks highly on the well-being index by 2025. Lisbon's low crime rate, clean air, and easy-going lifestyle. Lisbon is a city of everyday pleasures, from pastel-coloured trams to ocean-side dining. It's also a leader in sustainability and urban innovation, making it one of the top cities for quality of life in 2025. Lisbon's balanced pace and cultural warmth prove that happiness doesn't have to be loud—it just has to feel right.

20. Dubai, UAE

Dubai offers a dynamic, futuristic lifestyle that's hard to match. It is one of the best cities in 2025 for opportunity, comfort, and safety. With tax-free income, world-class amenities, and unmatched infrastructure, Dubai ranks highly in the global city rankings.

It's also one of the most expat-friendly cities in 2025, with over 80% of the population being international residents. The city ensures excellent safety standards, efficient public transport, and outstanding healthcare, making it one of the safest towns. Dubai is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, and its rapid development doesn't compromise on luxury or innovation. Whether you're enjoying a beach club, a desert safari, or a skyline view from the Burj Khalifa, Dubai offers a quality of life that aligns with modern dreams. Plan your 2025 travel with BookMyBooking and see how high-rise happiness feels.

How to Choose the Right City for a Happy Travel Experience in 2025

Planning your 2025 adventures? With so many vibrant cities topping the global happiness rankings, picking destinations that align with your travel goals is essential. BookMyBooking's top destinations 2025 list features cities that offer more than just tourist appeal—they promise enriching, uplifting experiences.

Here's how you can choose the perfect happy city to visit:

1.  Look for Cities That Match Your Travel Mood

Some cities energise with their buzz (like Tokyo or New York), while others calm the soul (like Reykjavik or Zurich). Decide whether you want a culturally immersive trip, a nature-centric escape, or a relaxing coastal break—and pick accordingly.

1.  Prioritise Safety for a Stress-Free Trip

Many of the safest cities in 2025 also make for the safest travel destinations. Low crime rates, reliable public services, and a sense of social trust help ensure your journey is smooth and carefree.

1. Follow the Well-being Index

Cities that score high on the well-being index by city 2025 usually offer cleaner air, green public spaces, wellness-focused food scenes, and a more mindful pace, great for rejuvenating getaways. Think of Copenhagen, Vancouver, or Helsinki.

1. Consider Accessibility and Infrastructure

Easy-to-navigate public transport, multilingual support, walkable neighbourhoods, and smart connectivity make travel more enjoyable. Cities like Amsterdam, Seoul, and Singapore are known for their tourist-friendly infrastructure.

1. Go Where the Locals Are Happy

A happy population usually means positive energy, welcoming hospitality, and vibrant street life. Cities with high local satisfaction offer better service, cheerful interactions, and authentic cultural experiences, an intangible yet powerful part of joyful travel.

1. Explore Cultural Diversity and Events

Travel to cities celebrating global cultures through festivals, art, music, and food. Cities like Melbourne, Lisbon, and Cape Town rank high on quality-of-life travel lists and host immersive events yearly.

1. Think About Year-Round Appeal

Some cities shine in every season, such as Barcelona's beach life in summer, Tokyo's cherry blossoms in spring, or Montreal's winter festivals. A year-round travel charm adds flexibility when planning your trips with BookMyBooking.

1.  Balance Budget and Value

Look beyond the most popular hubs. Many rising stars on the BookMyBooking happiest cities 2025 guide, like Valencia or Ljubljana, offer top-tier experiences without draining your wallet. You'll get more value, more discovery, and often more peace.