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The Christmas period is always a hectic one: family reunions, end-of-year catch-ups, last-minute present shopping, and plenty of over-eating and drinking. January, as long and depressing as it may seem, provides an opportunity for healing – cosying up indoors, hibernating and planning the trips and treats the following year might have in store.
To that end, we’re taking a look at the most relaxing city breaks in Europe to take in 2024, and MoneySuperMarket Travel Insurance has released this year’s Serene Cities Index to help us decide where to prioritize. To create the report, travel experts have analyzed 75 of the world’s most popular city breaks and assigned each with an overall index score, looking at factors such as air, light and noise pollution, traffic congestion, average sunshine hours and the friendliness of residents.
Several major tourist hotspots are notably missing from the list. New York came in the lowest position, with a score of 47 out of 100 in the index rankings – a metropolis with the moniker “the city that never sleeps” surely never had a look-in – while other regular favorites including Milan, Paris, Venice and Los Angeles also had low scores. But the list also features some intriguing, underrated destinations we’re eager to explore this year. From a Swedish hotspot to an under-the-radar Norwegian gem, read on for the best cities in the world to relax, rejuvenate and unwind in 2024.
This Croatian city has long drawn in travelers thanks to its beautiful walled Old Town dating back to the 16th century, dramatic views over the Adriatic and plenty of sandy beaches waiting to be explored. Dubrovnik was voted one of the best cities in Europe in the 2023 Reader’s Choice Awards, and also ranked highly as one of the world’s friendliest cities.
While this spot is one of Europe’s most expensive city breaks, it clearly doesn’t impact Zurich’s ability to create a zen environment for travelers. The city is known for its walkable streets, fairytale corners and cozy, firelit restaurants – perfect for any rejuvenating break.
Less of a party destination than the country’s capital, Munich offers a peaceful haven for those looking to unwind. Avoid Oktoberfest to explore the city’s more quiet cultural offerings. There’s a whole host of museums, art galleries, cycling routes and public gardens that’ll leave you feeling suitably content and refreshed.
Another entry in the 2023 survey of Europe’s friendliest cities, Slovenia’s capital is renowned for its happy, smiling locals. Plus, the center is car-free, making it distinctly pollution- and traffic-free, and it’s a real sanctuary for nature lovers looking for a city break that isn’t a concrete jungle.
Slowly garnering a reputation as one of Europe’s most affordable lesser-known destinations, this underrated Eastern European capital is one to add to your travel hit list before it gets too popular. Think cobblestone streets, colorful buildings and affordable food.
Any capital that is made up of breathtaking islands connected by romantic bridges criss-crossing over icy Baltic waters is worthy of an entry on a round-up of the world’s most relaxing cities. Come for the vibes, and stay for the food – Stockholm is one of Europe’s most sought-after foodie destinations, with an array of up-and-coming chefs and hard-to-book restaurants and bars making waves worldwide.
You’ll be hard-pressed to find a city quite as spectacular as Vienna, a place renowned for its world-class art and architecture. Austria featured on 2023’s list of the world’s safest countries, and Vienna has plenty of soul-soothing things for travelers to do on their next trip.
The final of three Scandinavian entries into this round-up, it’s no wonder the region is known for having such happy, carefree locals. Bergen has some of the cleanest air and lowest light pollution levels of all the entries on this list. Think glittering fjords and jaw-dropping landscapes nearby and peaceful, serene pockets all over the city.
Tallinn is quickly becoming a firm favorite as an alternative European city-break destination. The city is like something straight out of a storybook, with medieval buildings lining ancient alleyways, budget-friendly food and drink options and plenty of calming vistas over the Baltic Sea.
Iceland has long been a favorite for those looking for a nature-packed escape, so it’s little wonder its capital comes in top spot here. Reykjavik has excellent air quality, plenty of green space, low traffic and pollution levels and a very happy population – all the things you look for in a relaxing, rejuvenating city break.
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