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Planning Your Next Trip? These Are the 10 Friendliest Cities in the World in 2026

Planning an international holiday? Along with famous landmarks, beautiful views and local food, the friendliness of residents can make a trip even more memorable. A helpful local, a welcoming conversation or a relaxed atmosphere can turn an ordinary visit into a special experience.

Fernwayer’s Friendliest Cities Index 2026 analysed more than 1.2 million Reddit comments about 200 cities to identify destinations associated with warmth and hospitality. According to the supplied report, Mérida in Mexico secured the top position, followed closely by Glasgow in Scotland.

Here are the 10 cities featured in the ranking, along with their reported friendliness scores and travel highlights.

1. Mérida, Mexico — Score: 95.0/100

Mérida, the capital of Mexico’s Yucatán state, leads the list. Travellers highlighted its welcoming residents, relaxed pace of life and opportunities to connect with local people.

The city also attracts visitors with its colourful streets, colonial architecture and regional culture. It may appeal to travellers who prefer exploring local neighbourhoods and experiencing a destination beyond its most famous tourist attractions.

2. Glasgow, Scotland — Score: 94.9/100

Glasgow is known for its lively cultural scene, humour and approachable residents. According to the report, travellers often find it easy to start conversations and interact with locals.

Visitors can explore the city's museums, historic architecture, music venues and energetic neighbourhoods. Glasgow offers a mix of cultural attractions and social experiences for those visiting Scotland.

3. Bogotá, Colombia — Score: 94.5/100

Colombia’s capital ranks third, with visitors reportedly appreciating the kindness and helpfulness of its residents.

Located in the Andes, Bogotá combines historic neighbourhoods with museums, street art and a diverse food scene. The city offers plenty of opportunities for travellers interested in urban culture and local experiences.

4. Bodrum, Türkiye — Score: 94.4/100

Bodrum, situated on Türkiye’s Aegean coast, is a popular destination for travellers seeking coastal scenery and a relaxed holiday atmosphere.

Its marina, beaches, whitewashed buildings and seaside dining make it an appealing place to explore. The index also highlights positive traveller impressions of local hospitality.

5. Manchester, England — Score: 94.0/100

Manchester takes fifth place, with visitors describing locals as approachable and easy to talk to.

The city is well known for its football heritage, music history, museums and independent cafés. Its lively neighbourhoods and cultural attractions make it an interesting destination for both short city breaks and longer visits.

6. Hamburg, Germany — Score: 93.6/100

Hamburg stands out for its reportedly open-minded and welcoming atmosphere. The report suggests that visitors have positive experiences with residents, even if the city's friendliness is expressed in a more understated way.

Travellers can explore the waterfront, canals, historic Speicherstadt warehouse district and cultural attractions. Hamburg offers a combination of maritime history and modern city life.

7. Perth, Australia — Score: 93.5/100

Perth earns its place among the top 10 thanks to its laid-back lifestyle and approachable atmosphere.

The city offers beaches, riverside walks, green spaces and outdoor activities. For travellers who enjoy a more relaxed urban experience, Perth provides opportunities to combine sightseeing with time outdoors.

8. São Paulo, Brazil — Score: 93.3/100

Brazil’s largest city demonstrates that a busy metropolis can also offer welcoming experiences. Travellers reportedly appreciated helpful local interactions despite the city's size and fast-paced lifestyle.

São Paulo is a major destination for food, art, architecture and nightlife. Visitors can discover a wide range of restaurants, cultural spaces and neighbourhood experiences.

9. Mexico City, Mexico — Score: 93.2/100

Mexico City also appears in the top 10. According to the report, travellers praised residents for their politeness, generosity and willingness to help visitors.

The capital offers historic landmarks, renowned museums, street-food markets and neighbourhood cafés. Its rich cultural heritage makes it an attractive destination for travellers interested in history, cuisine and city life.

10. Nashville, United States — Score: 93.1/100

Nashville completes the list, with its reputation for Southern hospitality and sociable atmosphere contributing to its appeal.

Often called Music City, Nashville is known for live performances, country music landmarks and a lively food scene. Visitors can enjoy music venues and cultural attractions while experiencing the city's distinctive character.

What Does the Friendliest Cities Index Measure?

The ranking described in the supplied report is based on an analysis of Reddit comments about 200 cities. It reflects how people discuss and describe their experiences of friendliness and hospitality.

Such a ranking can help travellers discover destinations to consider, but it should not be treated as a definitive measure of every resident's behaviour. Experiences can vary depending on the neighbourhood, language, season and individual interactions.

How to Choose a Friendly City for Your Next Holiday

• Consider your interests: Choose between cultural attractions, coastal escapes, historic neighbourhoods or outdoor activities.
• Research the local area: Look into transport, accommodation, safety guidance and the best time to visit.
• Learn a few local phrases: Simple greetings can make interactions easier and more enjoyable.
• Read different traveller experiences: Compare multiple sources instead of relying on a single ranking.
• Plan your budget: Flight costs, accommodation and daily expenses can vary significantly between destinations.

Final Thoughts

From Mérida’s relaxed streets to Glasgow’s lively culture and Nashville’s music scene, the 2026 Friendliest Cities Index offers a varied list of destinations for travellers who value welcoming experiences.

While friendliness is subjective and no ranking can guarantee a particular experience, these cities may provide inspiration for your next international trip. Choose a destination that matches your interests, research it carefully and leave room for the local encounters that often make travel memorable.

Source note: City rankings and scores in this article are based on the supplied report about Fernwayer’s Friendliest Cities Index 2026. Check the original index for its methodology and full details before publication.