What makes a holiday truly memorable? For many, it’s no longer about rushing through must-see landmarks or snapping endless photos. In 2025, travel has taken on a more mindful purpose—it’s about joy, balance, and leaving a place feeling better than when you arrived. That’s exactly what the new Holiday Happiness Index, developed by BookRetreats.com with insights from Harvard psychologist Dr. Natalie Dattilo-Ryan, set out to uncover. By measuring sunlight, sleep quality, healthy food, green space, and walkability across 47 cities, the study reveals where in the world you’re most likely to experience an emotional lift. The results take us on a journey across continents—to sun-drenched boulevards, forested trails, spa-laden capitals, and historic towns where the simple act of wandering becomes a wellness ritual. Here’s a closer look at the 10 destinations that aren’t just good for sightseeing—they’re scientifically good for your soul. (Image: Canva)
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1. Lisbon, Portugal Golden light spills across tiled streets, trams rattle uphill, and the Atlantic breeze carries the scent of grilled sardines. Lisbon doesn’t just sparkle—it soothes. With its walkable neighborhoods and fresh Mediterranean flavors, this city invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and let happiness settle in like a warm sunset. (Image: Canva)
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2. Helsinki, Finland In Helsinki, nature is never far away. One moment you’re sipping coffee in a design-forward café, the next you’re on a woodland trail or unwinding in a sauna by the sea. Long summer days bring light in abundance, while the city’s calm, green spaces create a quiet rhythm where happiness feels natural. (Image: Canva)
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3. Orlando, USA Sure, Orlando is known for roller coasters and magic kingdoms—but its joy goes beyond childhood thrills. With year-round sunshine, sprawling parks, and resorts designed for wellness as much as play, this Florida favorite proves that happiness can be both exhilarating and deeply restorative. (Image: Canva)
4. Athens, Greece History whispers from every corner of Athens, yet the city pulses with modern energy. Cafés spill into lively squares, blue skies stretch endlessly overhead, and plates of olive oil–drizzled dishes bring the best of the Mediterranean diet. Here, walking through the streets feels like walking through centuries—with joy around every corner. (Image: Canva)
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5. Edinburgh, Scotland Edinburgh is a city that wears its history proudly. Castles crown craggy hills, cobblestone streets wind through literary quarters, and festivals turn the city into a playground of creativity. Add in the green swathes of Arthur’s Seat and the walkable charm of its old town, and happiness feels stitched into its very fabric. (Image: Canva)
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6. Madrid, Spain In Madrid, life unfolds outdoors. Locals linger in plazas, laughter echoes from tapas bars, and leafy boulevards invite endless wandering. Sunlight bathes the city for much of the year, siestas promise rest, and every corner seems to encourage connection—a recipe for joy that feels effortlessly Spanish. (Image: Canva)
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7. Vienna, Austria Vienna moves to the rhythm of waltzes and espresso spoons. Here, history and elegance mingle with leafy parks and riverside trails. Between art galleries and grand coffeehouses, you’ll find a city that values culture as much as quality of life—making happiness part of its daily design. (Image: Canva)
8. Budapest, Hungary Happiness bubbles up—quite literally—in Budapest. Thermal baths steam in the morning air, bridges arch gracefully across the Danube, and evenings hum with ruin bars and riverside strolls. The city’s affordability makes indulgence easy, while its natural rhythm restores balance. (Image: Canva)
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9. Oslo, Norway In Oslo, the line between city and nature blurs. One moment you’re admiring sleek modern architecture, the next you’re kayaking through fjords or hiking forest trails. Fresh air, clean design, and the Scandinavian knack for balance make this northern capital a beacon of quiet joy. (Image: Canva)
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10. Vilnius, Lithuania Vilnius may not top every traveler’s list, but that’s exactly its charm. Its baroque old town is made for wandering, green spaces wrap around the city, and a vibrant food scene adds flavor to its historic heart. For those who seek joy in authenticity and discovery, Vilnius delivers. (Image: Canva)
Priyanka Roshan With over eight years in multimedia journalism, is passionate about storytelling—both visual and textual—across travel, jobs, business, markets, politics, and daily news. From crafting engaging articles to producing compelling videos, she blends creativity with strategy to bring stories to life. With a strong foundation in SEO, and video production she ensures content not only informs but also resonates with audiences.
