Lisbon has been named the world’s happiest holiday destination for 2025, taking the top spot on the Holiday Happiness Index. The recognition, reported in mid-September 2025, places the Portuguese capital at the forefront of city-break choices for the year ahead.
Why is Lisbon number 1 on the Holiday Happiness Index?
BookRetreat's Holiday Happiness Index weights five feel-good factors equally: sunlight, quality sleep, a healthy diet, time in nature, and physical exercise.
According to the index, Lisbon’s strengths include lots of sunshine, a standout food scene and ease of getting around, all of which contribute to higher traveller satisfaction. Lisbon scores strongly on healthy eating options, with nearly 10% of its restaurants classified as healthy, and on walkability, with compact neighbourhoods and viewpoints that reward exploring on foot. Coverage also highlights the role of green spaces in shaping its top ranking.
How Lisbon compares with other happiest holiday destinations in 2025
The 2025 Holiday Happiness Index spans Europe and North America, with Lisbon ranked first ahead of Helsinki in Finland and Orlando in the United States.
Lisbon vs European city-break peers on the list
Lisbon comes up on top thanks to its high sunshine hours, compact layout and walkability, healthy food share. The great outdoors is also a main factor, with Lisbon having quick access to good-quality beaches and lots of great surf spots.
Helsinki came in at number two. It offers quieter sleep environments, vast parks and trails, and strong proximity to nature—particularly appealing for restorative breaks. However, Lisbon’s milder year-round conditions support outdoor plans more reliably.
European peers such as Athens, Madrid and Rome also feature on the index, offering deep cultural draws. But Lisbon distinguishes itself through ease of slow exploration with its many viewpoints, while also encouraging balanced well-being.
Lisbon vs long-haul destinations on the index
Orlando ranks third due to its green spaces and sunshine, with 148 parks and gardens and nearly 3,000 annual sunshine hours. Lisbon counters with a digestible city-break format and coastal access.
Major US cities like Chicago, New York and Los Angeles offer breadth and intensity, yet Lisbon delivers a compact experience aligned with the index’s walkability and healthy-living pillars.
Travelling or moving to Lisbon in 2025: a city on the global map
Lisbon’s standing on the international stage continues to grow, with recent accolades underscoring its appeal to visitors and new residents alike. Alongside its 2025 travel buzz, the city has been recognised for liveability, with coverage highlighting Lisbon among the top 40 cities for quality of life in 2025.
For travellers mapping out a first or return trip, skip the crowds and check out the non‑touristy things to do in Lisbon, from local hangouts to easy eats. If eating well is your prime focus, explore traditional food in Lisbon and see what there is to eat in Portugal’s capital, including tracking down the best pastel de nata in Lisbon.
Lisbon’s edge on the index is reinforced by wider recognition, from why Lisbon tops luxury travel in 2025 to Lisbon being voted Best World Heritage City 2024. This signals an appeal that extends beyond a short break. If you're weighing longer-term choices alongside city-break comparisons, living in Lisbon is a decision many choose to make.
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