- Lisbon topped a ranking of 47 cities as the world’s happiest travel destination
- Factors cited include sunlight, healthy food, sleep quality, exercise and access to nature
- Lisbon recorded approximately 2,828 hours of annual sunshine
- Dublin ranks 9th happiest city in Europe and 12th globally
- Ireland ranks 15th in the world in the World Happiness Report
Lisbon has topped a ranking of 47 cities as the world’s happiest travel destination. Factors cited include sunlight, healthy food, sleep quality, physical exercise and access to nature. The Portuguese capital’s recognition is expected to support further interest from leisure travellers seeking a balanced urban break.
The Holiday Happiness Index evaluated 47 popular tourist destinations globally based on five science-backed feel-good factors: sun exposure, sleep quality, healthy dining alternatives, walkability and access to nature. Lisbon recorded approximately 2,828 hours of annual sunshine. Nearly 10pc of Lisbon’s restaurants are classified as healthy options. The city provides 49 square metres of public green space per person and quick public transit links to the beaches of Cascais and Costa da Caparica.
Dublin ranks 9th happiest city to visit in Europe and 12th happiest city in the world according to travel and data studies. Ireland as a country ranks 15th in the world in the World Happiness Report and is cited as one of the most relaxing destinations in Europe. Dublin scores well for green spaces including St Stephen’s Green and Phoenix Park, low pollution and walkability.
| City | Country | |
| 1 | Lisbon | Portugal |
| 2 | Helsinki | Finland |
| 3 | Orlando | United States |
| 4 | Athens | Greece |
| 5 | Edinburgh | Scotland |
| 6 | Madrid | Spain |
| 7 | Vienna | Austria |
| 8 | Budapest | Hungary |
| 9 | Oslo | Norway |
| 10 | Vilnius | Lithuania |
