Jakarta –
Vacation is not just a matter of routine. Now, the tour is also considered capable of providing positive encouragement for mental and physical health.
This was revealed in the latest research from Bookretreatreats.com, which in collaboration with a psychologist from Harvard, Dr. Natalie Dattilo-Ryan. The study gave birth to the Holiday Happiness Index or holiday happiness index, a list of cities that were considered the happiest to visit in 2025.
As reported Forbesquoted Friday (5/9/2025) the study assessed 47 cities in the world based on five main indicators supported by science, namely: sun exposure, sleep quality, healthy food, green space, and ease of walking. The five factors have the same weight and produce a final score of a total of 100 points.
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“This index shows where the hormone happiness in your body will most likely increase naturally,” the report wrote.
From the ancient route in Lisbon to the port edge sauna in Helsinki, the cities on this list offer more than just an ordinary vacation destination. These are the 10 happiest cities in the world version of the Holiday Happiness Index 2025:
1. Lisbon, Portugal
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The capital of Portugal was built on seven hills facing the Tagus River. Lisbon combines historical heritage and modern atmosphere, with pastel -colored buildings, classic trams, to historic sites such as the Belem Tower and the Jeronimos monastery that is on the UNESCO list.
The hustle and bustle of the food market such as time out markets, roast sardines, to pasteis de nata cakes become part of the city’s attraction that spoil the senses.
2nd Helsinki, Finlandia
Located on the coast of Finland Bay, Helsinki offers a balance between city life and nature. Pine forests around the city, while local residents enjoy cardamom bread in cafes or relax in the seafront sauna.
In summer, open festivals such as Flow Festivals enliven the city, while winter brings snow charm and warm market lights.
3. Orlando, United States
More than just a city of amusement park, Orlando is now a complete destination. The magical world of Disney and Universal Studios presents immersive experiences such as Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Outside of Wahana, the city also has an art community, Bintang Michelin restaurant, to a crowded farmer market in areas such as Winter Park and Milk District.
4. Athens, Greece
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The city of Athens, Greece. (BBC Travel)
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Under the Mediterranean sunlight, classic ruins such as Parthenon and Hephaestus temple still stand majestically. Athena also presents a dynamic nightlife, ranging from grave cafes in Exarchia to elegant restaurants in Colonaki.
Not to mention, the experience of climbing the Lycabettus Hill to see the panoramic city from the height.
5. Edinburgh, Scotland
This Scottish capital offers a nuance of fairy tales with rocky streets and old castles. Royal Mile, Edinburgh’s old city center, leads to Edinburgh’s castle on the top of the hill.
In the summer, the city is a stage for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, but the true beauty is also felt in the morning foggy or when Bagpipe is heard from a distance. Arthur’s seat and the author’s museum become a mandatory destination for nature and literary lovers.
6. Madrid, Spain
Life in Madrid never stops. On Gran Via, the Belle Epoque style building side by side with the theater and modern boutique. The nightlife lives in Tapas bars in La Latina, while the wealth of art is displayed in the Prado Museum and Reina Sofia.
 Madrid City, Spain. (AP Photo) |
The energetic atmosphere of the city is combined with local flavors such as Flamenco and the spirit of supporters at the Bernabeu Stadium.
7. Wina, Austria
Wina presents classic elegance with a modern touch. RINGSTRASSE, the main road is circular, circling important sites such as Opera Negara and Hofburg Palace.
Vienna is also known as a classic cafe such as a central cafe, where philosophers and revolutionary past are used to gather. When night falls, the city turns into an ideal place to taste schnitzel or a glass of wine in a local vineyard.
8. Budapest, Hungaria
Budapest is a meeting between history and modern lifestyle. From Bukit Buda that accommodates Fisherman’s Bastion to Pest area full of alternative bars and art galleries.
 The City of Budipe, Hurry. (Padli’s/untikcom) Irf) |
The iconic view of the parliamentary building that was hit by the evening light and the Ottoman -style hot spring pool made the Budapest of a unique and character city.
9. Oslo, Norway
Located between Fjord and Forest, Oslo gave a sense of calm and coolness. Modern architecture such as Oslo Opera Building combined with historical buildings.
In their spare time, local residents climbed the Nordmarka route or gathered in the Grunerlokka art area. The Munch Museum and Viking Ship Collection show how this city appreciates culture and history.
10. Vilnius, Lituania
The Lituanian capital holds hidden charm. The Old City of Vilnius who entered UNESCO’s legacy was filled with baroque buildings and small roads full of murals. Jazz music is heard from a candle-glowing cafe, while local residents relax in city parks with special foods such as Cepelinai and Bit soup.
Bookretreats.com notes that cities in the list are not only visually attractive, but also offer an environment that scientifically supports human welfare.
(UPD/DDN)
