These Are the Most Welcoming European Cities to Visit in 2024
In a recent announcement, the top global travel destinations for 2024 have been revealed, with a notable presence of European destinations dominating three of the top five countries.
According to Booking’s Traveller Review Awards, the ranking for this year has been made from reviews gathered from over 309 million customers.
Numerous European countries have dominated the list of global award recipients for this year, with Italy leading the pack at 181,012, trailed by Spain (125,611), France (124,361), Germany (86,910), and the United Kingdom (74,754).
The top ten list of most welcoming countries also includes other EU nations like Poland, Croatia, and Portugal, SchengenVisaInfo.com reports.
The compilation of the world’s most inviting cities showcases an EU influence, with four out of the top ten located on the continent.
The Booking’s Traveller Review Awards show that Brazil’s Arraial d’Ajuda claimed the top spot as the most welcoming destination in the world, followed by Ermoupoli in Greece, Viana do Castelo in Portugal, Daylesford in Australia, and Grindelwald in Switzerland, rounding out the top five.
Securing their positions as the world’s most welcoming destinations for 2024, the winning countries have garnered incredible comments from travellers who have already visited these destinations. Those who gave a review praised these destinations’ hospitality and service offerings, among many others.
Greece’s Ermoupoli Claims Spot as Second Most Welcoming Destination
Ermoupoli, the capital of Syros in the Cyclades, stood out as the second most welcoming place globally.
Known for its neoclassical architecture, the town boasts narrow, winding streets leading to historic landmarks such as Miaouli Square and the town hall with its grand 15-meter staircase.
At the same time, Ermoupoli offers many bars, restaurants, and opportunities to immerse oneself in Greek culture.
Castelo, Portugal Ranked Third for This Year
An hour from Porto Airport, Viana do Castelo secured the third spot as the most welcoming destination worldwide.
Nestled along the Portuguese Atlantic coast, the town has a rich maritime history, showcased at the Gil Eanes. With a diverse array of stunning architecture spanning the Renaissance, Baroque, and Art Deco periods, Viana do Castelo also attracts those who are open to new adventures with its renowned watersports scene.
Grindelwald in Switzerland Completes List of Top 3 Most Welcoming EU Destinations
Grindelwald, positioned in the heart of the Swiss Alps at approximately 1,000 meters above sea level, clinched the fifth spot on the list.
Surrounded by iconic peaks like the Eiger and Jungfrau, Grindelwald offers breathtaking views accessible through the Jungfraujoch cogwheel train.
The region transforms into a winter sports haven with world-class skiing and snowboarding slopes while summer unveils endless hiking trails through the alpine landscape.
