Top 35 Friendliest Countries in the World

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2025’s Top 35 Friendliest Countries in the World

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In 2025, travelers and expats alike are emphasizing kindness, warmth, and hospitality when choosing their next destination. The latest rankings from U.S. News & World Report highlight the 35 countries around the globe that stand out for their friendly and welcoming atmospheres. Here, we explore these countries in detail, showcasing what makes each one unique in their approach to friendliness.

1. Canada 🇨🇦

Known for its polite residents and welcoming spirit, Canada continues to lead the world in friendliness. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Toronto or enjoying the serene landscapes of the Rockies, Canadians are renowned for their polite manners and openness. The country’s cultural diversity fosters an inclusive environment, making it easy for newcomers to feel at home.

2. Spain 🇪🇸

Spanish culture is famous for its warm, passionate attitude. Visitors often describe locals as friendly, lively, and eager to share their traditions. Whether attending a neighborhood fiesta or discovering tapas, travelers encounter genuine warmth that makes Spain a convivial destination.

3. New Zealand 🇳🇿

Renowned for its relaxed pace and friendly locals, New Zealanders are known for their welcoming nature, especially outdoors lovers and adventure seekers. The country’s small-town charm and community spirit make it a favorite among travelers seeking authentic interaction.

4. Netherlands 🇳🇱

From the vibrant streets of Amsterdam to quieter rural towns, Dutch people embody friendliness with a laid-back, open-minded attitude. The nation’s commitment to social cohesion translates into a warm welcome for visitors and residents alike.

5. Portugal 🇵🇹

Famous for its hospitality, Portugal’s friendly outlook shines through its friendly locals and inviting cafes. Visitors often comment on the national pride in hospitality, which makes exploring cities like Lisbon and Porto an enriching experience.

6. Australia 🇦🇺

Known for laid-back attitudes and welcoming personalities, Australians are famously friendly. Whether you’re enjoying the beaches of Sydney or exploring the Outback, locals are quick to assist and share their love of their homeland.

7. Italy 🇮🇹

Italy’s reputation for warmth extends beyond its renowned cuisine and cultural vibrancy. Italians are passionate and welcoming, often inviting visitors into their homes and sharing stories over a delicious meal.

8. Norway 🇳🇴

While Norway is often associated with stunning natural scenery, its people are equally renowned for their friendliness. Visitors often praise Norwegians for their openness and helpfulness, both in urban settings and rural communities.

9. Thailand 🇹🇭

Thailand’s famous “Land of Smiles” lives up to its reputation. Thai hospitality, combined with a cheerful racial culture, guarantees travelers a warm and welcoming experience across bustling markets and serene temples alike.

10. Finland 🇫🇮

Although often viewed as reserved, Finns are among the friendliest in their own understated way. Visitors point out the sincere kindness of locals, who are eager to help and share their love for nature and design.

11. Greece 🇬🇷

Greece’s rich history and warm Mediterranean climate combine to make the country exceptionally friendly. Greeks are known for their hospitality, especially in small villages and coastal towns where visitors become part of the community.

12. Sweden 🇸🇪

Sweden balances modern sophistication with authenticity and friendliness. Swedish residents are open-minded and eager to share their culture, making it an inviting destination for travelers.

13. Ireland 🇮🇪

Famous for their welcoming spirit, Irish people often go above and beyond in showing hospitality. From friendly pub conversations to hometown festivals, Ireland offers an authentic warm experience.

14. Denmark 🇩🇰

Denmark’s cozy “hygge” lifestyle matches its reputation for friendly and open-minded people. Visitors feel at home thanks to the warmth of Danish social interactions, especially in Copenhagen’s vibrant neighborhoods.

15. Brazil 🇧🇷

Brazilian warmth is legendary, and outsiders quickly notice the friendliness of locals. The joyful, expressive culture shines through in festivals, street music, and everyday interactions, making Brazil a top destination for hospitable travelers.

16. Austria 🇦🇹

Austria combines scenic beauty with a hospitable spirit. Visitors often remark on the kindness and professionalism of locals, whether exploring the historic streets of Vienna or scenic alpine villages.

17. Iceland 🇮🇸

Despite its rugged terrain and small population, Icelanders are famously friendly. Travelers are often surprised by their openness and eagerness to share stories about their island’s natural wonders.

18. Switzerland 🇨🇭

Efficient and courteous, Swiss people exhibit friendliness through their professionalism and helpfulness. Travelers appreciate the warm interactions even in bustling cities like Zurich or Geneva.

19. Philippines 🇵🇭

The Philippines is renowned worldwide for its exceptionally friendly locals. Known for their hospitality and genuine warmth, Filipino communities are welcoming to tourists and newcomers.

20. Belgium 🇧🇪

Belgium’s cozy towns and cosmopolitan cities share a reputation for friendliness. Residents are known for their politeness and welcoming attitude, especially in cultural hubs such as Brussels and Bruges.

21. Japan 🇯🇵

Japanese culture emphasizes respect and hospitality, which translates into a remarkably friendly atmosphere. Visitors often praise the politeness and helpfulness of locals across cities and rural areas.

22. Malaysia 🇲🇾

Malaysia’s multicultural fabric combines to produce a population that is friendly, inclusive, and welcoming. Travelers are often greeted with warmth in both urban centers and peaceful villages.

23. Turkey 🇹🇷

Turkish hospitality is legendary; locals are known to treat visitors as part of the family. From bustling markets in Istanbul to inland towns, friendliness is woven into everyday life.

24. Singapore 🇸🇬

Despite its reputation as a highly developed metropolis, Singaporeans are friendly and eager to help. The multicultural environment fosters an atmosphere of acceptance and openness.

25. Luxembourg 🇱🇺

Small but hospitable, Luxembourg’s residents are known for their friendliness and politeness, offering visitors a warm welcome within its charming neighborhoods.

26. Croatia 🇭🇷

Croatia’s scenic coastline is dotted with friendly locals who are proud of their culture and eager to share it. The country combines stunning landscapes with welcoming communities.

27. France 🇫🇷

France’s charm extends to its people, who are often proud yet warm and hospitable. Visitors frequently comment on the sense of friendliness they experience in shops, cafes, and festivals.

28. United Kingdom 🇬🇧

British politeness and humor make the UK a friendly destination. Whether exploring London or the countryside, visitors encounter friendly locals willing to lend a hand.

29. Mexico 🇲🇽

Mexico’s warmth extends beyond its sunny climate. The hospitality of Mexican people, especially in smaller towns, ensures every traveler feels like part of the community.

30. Costa Rica 🇨🇷

Costa Rica’s slogan “Pura Vida” symbolizes its friendly spirit. Tourists enjoy the kindness and relaxed attitude of locals amid breathtaking rainforests and beaches.

31. Argentina 🇦🇷

Known for its vibrant culture and passionate people, Argentina exudes friendliness. The locals’ warmth and welcoming nature are evident from bustling Buenos Aires to scenic Patagonia.

32. Poland 🇵🇱

Polish hospitality is deeply rooted in tradition. Travelers often find Poles to be warm, helpful, and eager to share their rich history and culture.

33. Indonesia 🇮🇩

Indonesia’s friendly and diverse population makes it a top destination for those seeking warmth and hospitality amid stunning tropical landscapes.

34. Chile 🇨🇱

Chile offers friendly interactions coupled with breathtaking scenery. Locals are known to be open and welcoming, making every visit memorable.

35. Vietnam 🇻🇳

Vietnamese hospitality and friendliness are legendary. Visitors are often surprised by the warmth of locals, especially in markets and small villages.

In Conclusion

The friendliness of a country can significantly shape the travel experience, and 2025’s top-ranked nations embody warmth and hospitality across different cultures and continents. Whether seeking adventure, cultural immersion, or relaxation, these countries offer welcoming environments that invite travelers to explore with open hearts.

Source: U.S. News & World Report 2025