Quick Facts
Before we dive into the heart of global hospitality, here is a snapshot of the top-rated destinations for 2025. These rankings are based on the experiences of over 757,000 travelers who prioritized warmth, safety, and ease of navigation in their 2024 adventures.
| City | Country | Main Draw |
|---|---|---|
| Victoria | Canada | Old World charm and afternoon tea culture |
| Singapore | Singapore | Unmatched safety and world-class street food |
| Cape Town | South Africa | Multicultural pride and scenic coastlines |
| Phnom Penh | Cambodia | Youthful energy and profound local kindness |
| Vienna | Austria | Imperial elegance and cozy coffee houses |
Key Takeaway: The 2025 Friendliness Leaders
- What is the friendliest city in the world for 2025? Victoria, Canada, is ranked as the #1 most tourist-friendly city due to its unique blend of 'Old World' charm and welcoming small-town energy.
- Why is Singapore considered a top city for tourists? Singapore ranks #2 because it is one of the safest and cleanest cities globally, offering a seamless experience for English and Mandarin speakers.
- Which new city debuted on the 2025 list of friendliest places? Phnom Penh, Cambodia, made its debut at #5, noted for its youthful energy and unmovable sense of kindness and connection.
Traveling in 2025 is no longer just about ticking monuments off a bucket list; it’s about how a place makes you feel. As global tourism reaches its highest levels in years, the 38th annual Readers’ Choice Awards have revealed a shift in traveler priorities. This year, over 757,109 votes were cast, and the results speak volumes about the enduring value of a genuine smile and a helping hand.
While iconic hubs often grab the headlines, the 2025 rankings highlight a significant trend: Canada’s dominance in hospitality. The Great White North secured 3 out of the top 10 spots, proving that its reputation for politeness is more than just a stereotype—it’s a cornerstone of their tourism industry. From the bustling laneways of Melbourne to the historic squares of Vienna, these are the cities where you aren't just a visitor; you're a welcomed guest.
10. Dublin, Ireland
Dublin has long been synonymous with the "craic"—that uniquely Irish blend of humor, conversation, and social vitality. In 2025, it maintains its position in the top 10 by successfully balancing its role as a global tech hub with its roots as a cozy, welcoming capital. Whether you are navigating the corporate architecture of the Silicon Docks or the cobblestones of Temple Bar, the hospitality remains consistently warm.
The city’s heart beats loudest in its green spaces and public houses. A stroll through St. Stephen’s Green often leads to spontaneous conversations with locals, while the city's pubs serve as communal living rooms. Unlike many other major capitals, Dubliners possess a natural curiosity about visitors, often going out of their way to provide directions or suggest a "better" local pint than the one you’re currently holding.
Why travelers love it:
- The Social Fabric: It is almost impossible to sit alone in a Dublin pub for more than twenty minutes without someone striking up a conversation.
- The Accessibility: Most of the city center is walkable, and the locals are famously patient with lost tourists.
Pro Tip: For a more authentic experience, head to the residential neighborhoods of Rathmines or Stoneybatter. The "neighborhood bakeries" here offer a slice of local life far away from the Guinness Storehouse crowds.
9. Denpasar, Bali
For many, Denpasar is merely a transit point—the gateway to the jungles of Ubud or the beaches of Uluwatu. However, 2025 travelers are increasingly finding beauty in the city’s first impressions. Denpasar represents the soul of Balinese hospitality, where the community-minded energy is palpable from the moment you step off the plane.
The city's traditional markets, like Pasar Badung, offer a sensory-rich introduction to the island. Here, the interaction isn't just transactional; it’s an invitation to understand Balinese culture. The unmovable kindness of the vendors, who often share stories alongside their spices and textiles, sets a welcoming tone for the rest of any Indonesian itinerary. It is a city that prides itself on "Tri Hita Karana"—the traditional philosophy of harmony between people, nature, and the spiritual.
8. Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh is a city of dramatic juxtapositions. The medieval Old Town and the neoclassical New Town create a skyline that feels like a film set, yet the atmosphere is remarkably grounded. Despite being a global arts capital, Edinburgh retains a "small-town" intimacy that makes it one of the most tourist-friendly cities 2025 has to offer.
The hospitality peaks during the Fringe Festival, but even in the quieter winter months, the warmth of the residents shines through. You’ll find it in the quiet neighborhood bakeries of Stockbridge and the crowded pubs of the Grassmarket. There is a collective pride in the city's history that locals are eager to share, making every walking tour feel like a personal storytelling session.
Top Experiences for Connections:
- Hike Arthur’s Seat: Don't be surprised if fellow hikers offer a friendly "morning" or tips on the best descent path.
- Victoria Street: Shop at independent boutiques where owners often double as unofficial city ambassadors.
7. Quebec City, Canada
Quebec City offers a rare experience: the romantic allure of a French village without the need to cross the Atlantic. As the second of three Canadian cities on our list, it excels in creating a sense of "enchanted" history. The UNESCO-protected Old Québec, with its fortified walls and cobblestone streets, feels like a living museum, yet it is far from cold or distant.
The locals—many of whom are bilingual—take immense pride in their heritage. The "Frenchness" of the city adds a layer of sophistication, but it is tempered by a North American friendliness that ensures you never feel like an outsider. Whether you are dining at a sidewalk bistro or exploring the Place Royale, there is an unhurried, welcoming pace to life here that invites you to linger.
Pro Tip: Visit during the Winter Carnival (Carnaval de Québec). The city transforms into a snowy wonderland, and the shared "we’re all in this cold together" spirit makes for incredibly warm social interactions.
6. Melbourne, Australia
Frequently cited as the world’s most livable city, Melbourne has a European artsy soul that sets it apart from its coastal cousin, Sydney. The city’s friendliness is rooted in its sophisticated yet relaxed lifestyle. Melburnians are fiercely proud of their "hidden" culture—the graffiti-covered laneway bars and the hole-in-the-wall coffee shops that require a bit of local knowledge to find.
This "insider" culture could easily feel exclusionary, but in Melbourne, the opposite is true. Locals love to share their "best-kept secrets." Ask a Melburnian where to get the best flat white, and you’ll likely get a ten-minute lecture on bean roasting followed by a personal escort to their favorite shop. It is a city that feels buzzy and experimental, yet entirely safe and welcoming for solo travelers.
5. Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Making a stunning debut at #5 in the 2025 rankings, Phnom Penh is the "potentially unexpected winner" of the year. While Cambodia’s history is marked by tragedy, its capital city is a testament to resilience and an unmovable sense of kindness. Travelers this year have noted a distinct "youthful energy" that permeates the city, balancing tradition with a forward-looking, experimental spirit.
The connection you feel in Phnom Penh is profound. It’s found in the Tuk-Tuk drivers who offer genuine smiles and local history, and in the young entrepreneurs opening "concept cafes" that blend Khmer flavors with modern design. This is a city that doesn't just welcome tourists; it seeks to connect with them on a human level.
Why it’s a 2025 Standout:
- The People: Often described as the kindest in Southeast Asia, Cambodians have a genuine curiosity and warmth.
- The Value: High-end hospitality is available at a fraction of the cost of European cities, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.
4. Singapore
Singapore remains a titan of tourist-friendliness, consistently ranking as one of the safest and cleanest cities globally. For the 2025 traveler, Singapore offers a "seamless experience" that is hard to replicate elsewhere. Because it is a melting pot of cultures, English and Mandarin speakers will find navigation and communication effortless.
The city’s friendliness is most apparent in its food culture. Hawker centers are the great equalizers of Singaporean society. Whether you are at Newton Food Centre or a local stall in Katong, you’ll find yourself sharing a table with locals, residents, and fellow tourists over plates of chili crab or Laksa. This communal dining experience breaks down barriers and makes the city feel like a massive, organized, and very delicious neighborhood.
Pro Tip: Don't be intimidated by the "chope" system (placing a pack of tissues on a table to reserve it). It’s a local quirk that shows how much Singaporeans value order and community respect.
3. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is a city of breathtaking beauty, where the mountains meet the sea in a dramatic embrace. But for the Readers’ Choice Awards participants, the city’s third-place ranking is about the people. Cape Town serves as a hopeful symbol of resilience and multicultural pride.
The social "braai" (barbecue) culture is the heart of hospitality here. It’s an invitation to slow down, share a meal, and engage in meaningful conversation. Despite the country’s complex history, there is a palpable sense of pride among locals in showing off their city, from the colorful houses of Bo-Kaap to the windswept coastlines of Cape Point. The friendliness here isn't just polite; it's passionate.
2. Vienna, Austria
Vienna is often described as "elegant yet cozy," a city that manages to feel grand without being pretentious. As the host of Eurovision 2026, the city is already gearing up with an even higher level of hospitality. The "Vibe" of Vienna is rooted in its coffee house culture—establishments where you are encouraged to sit for hours with a single cup of coffee and a newspaper.
There is a charming juxtaposition between the Baroque palaces and the humble, wood-paneled "Beisls" (bistros). Travelers in 2025 have praised the city for its efficiency and the politeness of its service. While Austrians can sometimes be seen as formal, that formality translates into a deep respect for the guest, ensuring a travel experience that is smooth, predictable, and refined.
Best Welcoming Spots in Vienna:
- The Prater: An old-world amusement park that feels like a nostalgic embrace.
- Naschmarkt: An open-air market where vendors from all over the world offer samples with a smile.
1. Victoria, Canada
Taking the crown for 2025, Victoria, British Columbia, is officially the most tourist-friendly city in the world. What makes it special? It’s the perfect marriage of 'Old World' British flair and the welcoming, laid-back energy of the Pacific Northwest. As the capital of British Columbia, Victoria is a city that prioritizes its "human scale."
Everything about Victoria is designed to make you feel at home. The inner harbor is a bustling hub of activity where seaplanes take off against a backdrop of historic architecture. The city’s famous afternoon tea at chic hotels like the Fairmont Empress isn't just a meal; it's an institution of hospitality. Travelers have noted that Victoria feels safe, incredibly walkable, and possessed of a "small-town" warmth that is rare for a capital city.
The Victoria Difference:
- The Garden City: The literal beauty of the city—from Butchart Gardens to the hanging baskets on every street lamp—reflects the care the community puts into its environment.
- Connectivity: Whether you are chatting with a local artisan at a market or receiving help from a "Visitor Blue Coat" volunteer, the level of personal attention is unparalleled.
Conclusion: Why Connection Matters in 2025
The 2025 rankings prove that while landmarks draw us to a city, it is the people who bring us back. Canada’s dominant presence—taking 3 of the top 10 spots—suggests that a culture of kindness is a powerful tourism asset. Whether you find yourself sipping tea in Victoria, eating laksa in Singapore, or wandering the laneways of Melbourne, the common thread is a sense of "connection."
Choosing a destination based on its friendliness isn't just about avoiding stress; it’s about enriching your world view through the eyes of those who call these incredible places home. As you plan your next adventure, consider where you want to go, but more importantly, consider who you want to meet.
FAQ
How are these cities ranked? The rankings are determined by the annual Readers' Choice Awards, where over 757,109 travelers vote based on their personal experiences with local hospitality, safety, ease of navigation, and overall "welcoming" atmosphere.
Which city is best for solo travelers in 2025? Singapore and Melbourne are excellent choices for solo travelers. Singapore offers unparalleled safety and easy-to-navigate public transport, while Melbourne’s social laneway culture makes it easy to meet people in a relaxed environment.
What makes a city 'tourist-friendly' in the current travel climate? In 2025, 'tourist-friendly' encompasses more than just polite service. It includes high levels of safety, linguistic accessibility (especially for English speakers), a sense of community pride, and a "seamless" infrastructure that reduces the stress of travel.
