San Diego has been named as the world’s most-relaxing city in a new global ranking, citing its sunshine, abundance of green spaces, and wide selection of spas as key reasons it tops the list.
The study, conducted by eSIM provider Holafly, examined 50 cities worldwide, drawing on data from sources such as the TripAdvisor and Numbeo platforms. The study considered factors including the number of parks and nature reserves, spas and wellness centers, traffic congestion, air quality, average annual hours of sunshine, and overall happiness levels from the 2025 Happy City Index. Each metric was normalized on a scale of 1 to 100, and final scores were calculated as the average of all measures, with higher scores indicate a more-relaxed city.
San Diego emerged as the ultimate destination for relaxation. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning coastline, the southern California city boasts 266 parks and nature reserves—the most of any city in the study—and 359 spas and wellness centers. With more than 3,000 hours of sunshine a year, San Diego also offers one of the sunniest climates on the list, making it easy to spend time outdoors.
Singapore ranked second, praised for its blend of modern city living and green space initiatives. Despite being densely populated, the city-state features 242 parks and nature areas, 698 spas and wellness centers, and relatively strong air quality. While average traffic congestion times hover at about 40 minutes, Singapore scored highest for happiness, reflecting residents’ satisfaction with their lifestyle.
Vienna claimed third place, thanks in part to its excellent air quality—among the best in Europe—and more than 2,000 hours of sunshine per year. The Austrian capital has 91 parks and nature reserves and 137 spas, offering a mix of traditional and modern wellness options. Minimal traffic congestion and a walkable layout helped boost its ranking.
Sydney in Australia landed fourth, providing what the study described as the “perfect balance” between urban energy and peaceful surroundings. Known for its iconic beaches and outdoor lifestyle, Sydney enjoys 2,468 hours of sunshine annually, 239 parks, and 368 spas and wellness centers. Its reputation for relaxed living and easy access to natural beauty made it one of the top destinations.
Melbourne rounded out the top five. The Australian city is home to 215 parks and nature reserves, including the Royal Botanic Gardens, and 249 spas and wellness centers. With over 2,360 hours of sunshine per year and high air quality, Melbourne ranked as another strong choice for travelers seeking calm amid city life.
Portland, Oregon, was the other U.S. city to make the top 12 ranking in eighth place, after the German capital of Berlin (sixth place) and Auckland in New Zealand (seventh place). Portland topped Rome in Italy and the Finnish capital of Helsinki, while the Spanish cities Madrid (11th) and Barcelona (12th) rounded out the top 12 ranking.
12 of the World’s Most-Relaxing Cities
- San Diego, U.S.
- Singapore, Singapore
- Vienna, Austria
- Sydney, Australia
- Melbourne, Australia
- Berlin, Germany
- Auckland, New Zealand
- Portland, U.S.
- Rome, Italy
- Helsinki, Finland
- Madrid, Spain
- Barcelona, Spain
Source: A study of 50 cities worldwide, conducted by Holafly, looking at factors such as the number of parks and nature reserves, spas and wellness centers, traffic congestion, air quality, average annual hours of sunshine, and overall happiness levels from the 2025 Happy City Index.
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