Compared to 2025, the rating has undergone quite significant changes – only Lisbon and Cape Town were included in the top ten this year.
Perhaps every tourist has been helped to navigate the area by a stranger at some point, so the cordiality of local residents significantly affects the travel experience. According to Time Out, the Condé Nast Traveller edition published a rating of the friendliest cities in the world in 2026 as part of the annual Readers ‘ Award’ Choice Awards.
This year, the first place was taken by Melbourne.
“The rating is formed by readers of the publication. They are asked where in the world they received the warmest welcome – from helping a local resident decipher the menu in a restaurant to giving them tips on how to get to the right place on the subway. Each city gets a score out of 100 points, ” the authors explain.
Melbourne scored 98.52 points. Condé Nast Traveller noted its “expressive creative atmosphere” and”European spirit”. Earlier this year, the Australian city also took the first place in the ranking of the best cities in the world according to Time Out, receiving particularly high marks from representatives of Generation Z.
“Melbourne is not the only Australian city in the Condé Nast Traveller ranking. Perth finished sixth with a score of 97.28 points. The publication explained the popularity of the city among tourists by its relaxed and warm atmosphere, which makes guests feel welcome, ” the media notes.
Portugal also took a strong position in the rating. Porto was second with 98.33 points, while Lisbon moved up from eighth place last year to fourth with 97.50 points.
The third position was taken by Seoul with 97.94 points. Condé Nast Traveller drew attention to small acts of kindness that help tourists feel more comfortable. For example, a restaurant owner can personally explain the specifics of a dish to visitors, and a local resident can help them figure out their metro route.
Compared to 2025, the rating has undergone quite significant changes, the article says. Only Lisbon and Cape Town made the top ten this year, dropping from third to tenth place. Last year’s winner, Quito, did not enter the ranking at all this year. Edinburgh, which in 2025 was the only representative of the UK among the most friendly cities, is also not in the top ten.
Amsterdam, which took fifth place, was recognized for its inclusivity. Jaipur ended up in seventh position thanks to the generosity of local vendors. Buenos Aires took eighth place – in particular, thanks to social traditions such as Sunday asado. And Bangkok, which came in ninth, lives up to Thailand’s reputation as the “land of smiles.”
The friendliest cities in the world in 2026, according to Condé Nast Traveller:
- Melbourne, Australia – 98.52 points
- Porto, Portugal – 98.33
- Seoul, South Korea – 97.94
- Lisbon, Portugal – 97.50
- Amsterdam, Netherlands – 97.35
- Perth, Australia – 97.28
- Jaipur, India – 96.67
- Buenos Aires, Argentina – 96.37
- Bangkok, Thailand – 96.16
- Cape Town, South Africa – 96.00
Konstantin is an acclaimed travel writer, celebrated for transforming ordinary journeys into extraordinary narratives. With years of experience exploring diverse destinations across the globe, his work blends vivid storytelling, cultural insights, and practical advice to inspire wanderlust and guide readers toward unforgettable adventures.
As a key contributor to enjoythetrip.org website, Konstantin has built a loyal readership through their expertise in uncovering both iconic landmarks and off-the-beaten-path treasures. He specializes in providing travelers with honest, actionable tips, whether it’s finding the best resorts in Maldives, exploring cultural hubs like Paris, or diving into the natural wonders of Croatia.