Lisbon has been crowned the “World’s Happiest Holiday Destination,” with a new study highlighting the Portuguese capital’s mix of sunshine, healthy food, and walkability as top reasons for its ranking.
The research, conducted by booking platform Bookretreats in collaboration with Harvard psychologist and holistic happiness expert Dr. Natalie Dattilo-Ryan, evaluated 47 cities worldwide using five “feel-good” factors: sunlight, quality sleep, healthy diet, time in nature, and physical exercise.
Lisbon stood out for its food culture, where nearly 10% of restaurants are rated as healthy—placing it ahead of renowned gastronomic hubs such as Paris, Tokyo, and New York. Traditional seafood and cozy tascas remain staples, but affordable nutritious dining options have become part of the city’s appeal.
Accessibility also played a key role. With its compact layout, Lisbon is known for being easy to explore on foot or by train, offering visitors the chance to enjoy historic neighborhoods like Bairro Alto and Alfama. Outdoor activities such as hiking and surfing in nearby Costa da Caparica further add to its charm.
“Add 2,828 hours of annual sunshine, and it’s easy to see the city’s mood-boosting appeal,” the company noted.
Dr. Dattilo-Ryan explained that vacations often stimulate the release of “happy hormones” such as serotonin, dopamine, endorphins, and oxytocin. “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,” she said.
Other destinations on the list include Helsinki, Orlando, Athens, and Edinburgh. The study also cited a UK survey in 2024, where 73% of travelers said they take trips to relax, while 50% seek to support their mental health and well-being.
