San Diego has topped the list of the world’s most relaxing cities, according to a new global ranking based on criteria related to nature, lifestyle, and environmental quality. The study, conducted by Holafly, a company specializing in eSIM services, covered 50 cities worldwide and used data from platforms such as TripAdvisor and Numbeo.
The study focused on various factors including the number of parks and nature reserves, spas and wellness centers, traffic congestion, air quality, average annual sunshine hours, and happiness levels according to the “Happy Cities Index 2025.” Scores were standardized on a scale from 1 to 100, and the final results were calculated based on the overall average.
San Diego secured first place thanks to its sunny climate and calm coastal environment. The city boasts 266 parks and nature reserves—the highest number among all cities surveyed—as well as 359 spas and wellness centers. With more than 3,000 hours of sunshine per year, San Diego promotes the outdoor lifestyle that Southern California is famous for.
Global Relaxation Leaders: Singapore, Vienna, and Sydney Shine
Singapore came in second, praised for its balance between dense urban development and expansive green spaces. The city-state is home to 242 parks and 698 spas, with relatively good air quality. Despite an average traffic congestion time of about 40 minutes, Singapore achieved the highest happiness score among its residents.
Vienna, Austria’s capital, ranked third, known for its excellent air quality—among the best in Europe—and more than 2,000 hours of sunshine annually. The city features 91 parks and 137 spas, along with accessible urban planning that makes mobility easier, boosting its position in the ranking.
Sydney, Australia, claimed fourth place thanks to its world-famous beaches like Bondi and Manly, as well as its active outdoor lifestyle. Sydney enjoys 2,468 hours of sunshine each year, 239 parks, and 368 spas.
Melbourne Joins the Top Five Most Relaxing Cities
Melbourne, Australia, took fifth place, featuring 215 parks and reserves—including the renowned Royal Botanic Gardens—and 249 spas. With 2,360 annual sunshine hours and clean air, Melbourne stands out as a top destination for those seeking tranquility.
The rest of the list included: Berlin (6th), Auckland, New Zealand (7th), Portland, Oregon (8th), Rome, Italy (9th), Helsinki, Finland (10th), Madrid, Spain (11th), and Barcelona, Spain (12th).
San Diego thus emerged not only as the most relaxing city in America but also as the most relaxing city in the world, according to the study, which emphasized that relaxation has become a key measure attracting both visitors and residents alike.