The friendliest cities in the world: 2024 Readers' Choice Awards
There are thousands of cities worldwide, yet no two are the same. Each urban area is packed with its own unique mix of restaurants, shops, architecture and nature—all of which are brought to life by the charm of its people. Particularly when in a crowded metropolis, immersing yourself in the community is essential, as good company goes a long way in making a trip both more enjoyable and comfortable.
To find these affable pockets, we called on you to search all four corners of the globe and rank your favourite cities for a friendly stay. Last year, Canadian cities received the most votes, although 2024 saw the spotlight move across the border to the US, with New York, Chicago and Las Vegas all ranking in the top 10. As chosen by you, here we reveal the world’s friendliest cities in this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards.
Getty Images10. New York, USA. Score 84.26
Jam-packed streets at all hours, a subway which never closes, ambitious people working around the clock to fulfil their dreams - it’s no wonder New York is nicknamed “The City that Never Sleeps.” Yet, busy lives and genuine kindness are not mutually exclusive, with New Yorkers always happy to pause their hectic schedules and lend strangers a helping hand. The city’s unfading and irresistible glamour is like no other, so expect an overwhelming “pinch me” moment as you wander amongst the soaring towers and glittering billboards.
Getty Images9. Chicago, Illinois. Score 89.66
From the wafts of frankfurters to the soulful sounds of jazz, Chicago is a sure feast for the senses. As the birthplace of the skyscraper, the city’s pioneering downtown rises above the sprawling shores of Lake Michigan, with several boat tours available for admiring the stunning architecture from the water. Locals here appreciate the value of simple pleasures, like their signature Chicago-style hot dogs and deep-dish pizza, both of which prove cuisine need not be fancy to be delicious.
Getty Images8. Hong Kong. Score 89.70
The community here deserves a noteworthy mention for its warm hospitality. Other highlights include Hong Kong’s dynamic Victoria Harbour, a thriving hotspot for both trade and tourism, as well as its plethora of sophisticated rooftop bars and five-star hotels. The Peninsula offers a unique helicopter “flight-seeing” experience, where guests tour the breathtaking skyline from a bird’s-eye view.
Getty Images7. Marrakech, Morocco. Score 90.59
If you’re looking to spice up your city breaks, Marrakech offers all the allure of a different continent without having to venture across the globe. Here you will find lavish riads for hotels, lively souks for shopping, and year-round hot temperatures for a delightful winter-sun escape - all reached in less than four hours by flight. No trip is complete without an excursion to the rocky Agafay desert, where visitors delve deep into the barren landscape through exhilarating activities like quad biking and stargazing.
Getty Images6. Tokyo, Japan. Score 90.87
As the world’s most-populated city, Tokyo knows a thing or two about people. Its community is hefty yet harmonious, bound by the acts of respect and flawless manners which underpin Japanese culture. Tokyo is a place which perfectly fuses tradition and the avant-garde, a place where ancient temples and cherry blossom gardens are scattered across a blanket of neon skyscrapers. For foodies, there’s everything from gourmet dining at over 200 Michelin-starred restaurants to family recipes at lantern-lit joints tucked beneath railway tracks.
Getty Images5. Cape Town, South Africa. Score 91.30
Slotted in the gap between mountains and ocean, Cape Town is a port city rich with remarkable scenery. Table Mountain is its most iconic landmark, named one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature for its flat peak accessible by cable car, while Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden is a 528-hectare natural paradise teeming with rare flowers and native birds. Don’t miss Robben Island across the water, home to the former prison which held Nelson Mandela and now a crucial museum for understanding Cape Town’s complex history.
Getty Images4. Bangkok, Thailand. Score 92.00
Thailand was voted the world’s third friendliest country, so it’s no surprise that the nation’s capital impressed our readers too. Bangkok may feel overwhelming at first glance, with its hectic crowds, fiery cuisine, and constant roar of motorbikes, but these lively streets are where the true soul of Thai culture lies. Immerse yourself in Bangkok’s colourful markets for a sense of the exhilarating buzz, followed by a visit to one of several sacred Buddhist temples for serene reflection among the ornate architecture.
Getty Images3. Las Vegas, Nevada. Score 93.33
The irony of good-natured people in a place called “Sin City” is not lost on us, as Las Vegas is notorious for hedonism and vice. Yet, while its wild venues are ideal for a party holiday, there’s more to this Nevadan city than simply casinos and nightclubs. Go beyond the Vegas Strip with a scenic hike through Red Rock Canyon, a conservation area known for its striking sandstone formations, or indulge in menus crafted by the masters at the many celebrity chef restaurants across town.
Getty Images2. Sydney, Australia. Score 93.85
In Sydney, outgoing personalities meet laid-back lifestyles to form one of the friendliest communities on the planet. The charm of this sun-kissed city is best found in its beach culture, with over 100 sandy stretches to choose from. From activities like surfing and snorkelling to cuisine like fresh seafood and beach barbecues, both local and tourist life revolves around the gorgeous coastline, so don’t forget to pack your best pair of flip-flops.
Getty Images1. Singapore. Score 94.84
Crowned the world’s friendliest city by our readers, Singapore has always had a reputation for being exceptional. The island city-state is famous for its financial powerhouses, pristine streets, unrivalled security standards, and now, diverse communities offering the crème de la crème of hospitality. It’s not all lavish high-rises and innovative technology either, as Singapore has been dubbed the “Garden City” for its myriad of luscious parks and tree-lined streets. In other words, Singapore has all the components to achieve the status of metropolitan utopia.