Top 20 friendliest cities in the world you should visit
Travelling is made better by the people we experience along the way.
Feeling welcomed and included when venturing into unknown territory is important. This is why the online language learning platform Preply has developed the Community Spirit Index—a comprehensive ranking of 53 cities worldwide based on their friendliness to non-natives.
The index is gleaned by analysing six key metrics: visitor return rate, how welcoming the local staff are, safety index score, LGBTQ+ equality, overall happiness and well-being, and the ease of communicating through a common language.
Through the Community Spirit Index, Preply has uncovered the top 20 friendliest cities in the world. Interestingly, Singapore has made it to the list and is the only Asian country on the list. Check out these cities below and the things they are known for.
20. Tel Aviv, Israel
Tel Aviv, located on the Mediterranean coast of Israel, is a bustling and vibrant city with a unique blend of old-world charm and modern innovation. It is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, diverse culinary scene, and thriving tech and startup industry.
19. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia in Spain, is a city with rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. Famous landmarks such as the Sagrada Familia and Park Guell attract visitors worldwide. It is also known for its beaches, nightlife, and culinary scene.
18. Madrid, Spain
Madrid, the capital of Spain, is a city known for its beautiful architecture, world-class museums, and vibrant culture. The city's famous landmarks, such as the Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor, are must-sees, complementing its bustling nightlife, scrumptious food scene, and passionate football culture.
17. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is a city known for its impressive architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. The city's famous landmarks, such as Charles Bridge and Prague Castle, attract visitors from all over the world, while its charming cobblestone streets, delicious beer, and lively nightlife make it a must-visit destination.
16. Singapore, Singapore
Singapore, the only Asian country on this list, is a city-state known for its modern architecture, diverse culture, and excellent food scene. The city's famous landmarks, such as Marina Bay Sands ArtScience Museum and Gardens by the Bay, are popular with tourists, while its efficient transportation system and clean streets make it a pleasant place to explore.
15. Berlin, Germany
Berlin, the capital of Germany, is a city known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and vibrant art scene. Famous landmarks such as the Berlin Wall and Brandenburg Gate are must-sees, while the city's unique neighbourhoods, delicious food, and buzzing nightlife make it an unforgettable destination for travellers.
14. Paris, France
Paris, France's capital, is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and romantic charm. Famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral are iconic symbols of the city, while its world-class museums, delicious cuisine, and fashionable boutiques make it a beloved destination for travellers.
Related: How to save money on attractions in Paris with Go City bundle passes
13. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a city known for its amazing architecture, rich history, and charming atmosphere. Famous landmarks such as the Belem Tower and Jerónimos Monastery are must-sees, in addition to its colourful streets, delicious food, and lively music scene.
12. Auckland, New Zealand
Auckland, located on the North Island of New Zealand, is a city known for its splendid natural beauty, vibrant culture, and outdoor adventures. Famous landmarks such as the Sky Tower and Auckland Harbour Bridge offer breathtaking views, while the city's beaches, parks, and nearby islands are adored by nature lovers.
11. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is a city known for its charming canals, historic architecture, and vibrant culture. Apart from the exciting nightlife, delicious food, and unique neighbourhoods, the city also has famous landmarks such as the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House.
10. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is a city known for its remarkable architecture, rich history, and high quality of life. Famous landmarks such as the Little Mermaid statue and Tivoli Gardens are must-sees, while the city's vibrant food scene, stylish design, and emphasis on sustainability make it one of the top destinations for travellers.
9. Dublin, Ireland
Dublin, the capital of Ireland, is a city known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and lively atmosphere. Famous landmarks such as Dublin Castle and St. Patrick's Cathedral are must-sees, while the city's pubs, live music, and literary heritage make it a must-visit for travellers seeking an authentic Irish experience.
8. San Francisco, United States
San Francisco, located in California, United States, is a city with iconic landmarks, like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, diverse culture, and an innovative spirit. It is also known for its bustling neighbourhoods, world-class cuisine, and thriving tech industry.
7. Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne, located in Australia, is a city known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, delicious cuisine, and beautiful parks and gardens. Famous landmarks include Federation Square and the Royal Botanic Gardens. Travellers also come here for its coffee culture, eclectic fashion, and lively music scene.
6. Montreal, Canada
Montreal, located in Quebec, Canada, is a city known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and amazing architecture. Famous landmarks such as Notre-Dame Basilica and Mount Royal Park are must-sees, while the city's charming cobblestone streets, delicious food scenes, and lively music festivals make it a beloved destination for travellers.
5. New York, United States
New York City, located in the United States, is a city known for its iconic landmarks, like the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building. In addition to the diverse culture and bustling city energy, the museums, world-class cuisine, and vibrant neighbourhoods are also the top reasons why travellers love it here.
Related: 8 New York City travel tips plus the best attractions, food and things to do
4. Manchester, United Kingdom
Manchester, located in England, is a city known for its rich industrial heritage, vibrant music scene, and famous football clubs. Famous landmarks such as Manchester Cathedral and the Museum of Science and Industry are must-sees, while the city's lively nightlife, thriving arts scene, and delicious food make it a great travel experience.
3. Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is a city with beautiful architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. Famous landmarks include Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. It is also known for its charming cobblestone streets, lively festivals, and world-famous whisky.
2. Sydney, Australia
Sydney, located in Australia, is a city known for its beaches, iconic landmarks, like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, and vibrant culture. Travellers also come here for its lively neighbourhoods, world-class cuisine, and exciting events such as Vivid Sydney.
Related: 10 exciting things to do in Sydney, and how to get the best travel deals
1. Toronto, Canada
Toronto, located in Ontario, Canada, is a city known for its diverse culture, impressive skyline, and world-class attractions. Famous landmarks such as the CN Tower and the Royal Ontario Museum are must-sees, while the city's bustling neighbourhoods, delicious food scenes, and lively music festivals make it a beloved destination for travellers.
Check airfare here: Skyscanner | Trip.com | Expedia
Book accommodations and activities here: Agoda | Booking.com | Klook | KKday | HotelsCombined
Save big, get the all-inclusive pass & explore your destination in-depth: GoCity
General info here: Tripadvisor
Affordable data plans here
And while you are at it, get your travel insurance with Alliance Assistance | Income | Prudential!
