The world’s most inviting cities showcase an EU influence, with four out of the top ten located on the continent
European destinations grab dominating spots with three out of the top five countries in the top global travel destinations for 2024, by travel firm Booking.com’s Traveller Review Awards.
Numerous European countries have dominated the list of global award recipients for this year, with Italy leading the pack at 181,012 votes, trailed by Spain preferred by 125,611 votes, France at 124,361, Germany at 86,910 and the United Kingdom at 74,754, according to the report by Booking.com, compiled using reviews gathered from over 309 million customers.
The report says that the top 10 list of most welcoming countries also includes other EU nations like Poland, Croatia, and Portugal. The world’s most inviting cities showcase an EU influence, with four out of the top ten located on the continent.
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.
The statement adds that 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 offers many bars, restaurants, and opportunities to immerse oneself in Greek culture
According to the report, 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-metre 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
Viana do Castelo secured the third spot as the most welcoming destination worldwide
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
Surrounded by iconic peaks like the Eiger and Jungfrau, Grindelwald offers breathtaking views
Grindelwald, positioned in the heart of the Swiss Alps at approximately 1,000 metres 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.
