The eleventh edition of the Traveller Review Award, released by the well known travel website Booking, has ranked the world's most welcoming tourist destinations. And the results show that it is Italy that is home to the most welcoming city in the world. Let's find out which cities and towns have received awards in 2023 and are therefore the friendliest cities in the world.
Polignano a Mare, Italy
So, what is the world's friendliest city? This year's ranking released by Booking gives the award to Polignano a Mare. The Apulian resort, which has been attracting many tourists from all over the planet for years now, is characterised not only by its beautiful beach (Lama Monachile) and its centre overlooking the Adriatic Sea, but also by its unique food and wine offerings, combined with its authentic atmosphere at every turn.
Hualien, Taiwan
In second place is a little-known destination, the city of Hualien in Taiwan, famous for its unique beaches, indigenous culture (it is home to 7 of the island's 14 indigenous tribes), splendid night markets and numerous natural and scenic beauties.
San Sebastián, Spain
Completing the podium, in third place, is another European destination. This is the Basque city of San Sebastián in Spain, a destination overlooking the Bay of Biscay famous for its highly celebrated Playa de la Concha and Playa de Ondarreta, as well as its characteristic old town.
Dresden, Germany
Just off the podium is Dresden, a characteristic city in the region of Saxony in Germany. It is also known as 'Florence on the Elbe' due to its numerous Baroque and Rococo architectural monuments and its location on the banks of the River Elbe.
Klaipeda, Lithuania
We remain in Europe for fifth place, occupied by Klaipeda, which is also Lithuania's only port on the Baltic Sea. The city is characterised above all by its Teutonic spirit, which can also be seen in its buildings, among which the Soviet influence is vividly recognisable.
York, England
In sixth place is the English city of York, a place with an ancient past. It was built by the Romans and is today famous for its cobblestone streets, its large Gothic cathedral, its green abbey and its museums.
Ushuaia, Argentina
Seventh place is occupied by a very unique South American location, namely Ushuaia, Argentina, which is located in the far south of the country. It is the capital of Tierra del Fuego and is a truly unique site, with cruises to Antarctica and to Isla Yécapasela, known as 'the island of penguins', departing from here.
Porto de Galinhas, Brazil
We're staying on the same continent for the eighth position and heading to Porto de Galinhas, Brazil. This is a beach area in the municipality of Ipojuca, in the Pernambuco region. The nightlife in the region, including clubs, bars and discos, would make even the most glamorous European locations envious.
Mexico City, Mexico
In ninth place is Mexico City, and the capital of the Central American country is a veritable treasure trove of history and culture. Built on the ancient ruins of the Aztec capital Tenochtitlán, it continues to enchant tourists and visitors in their multitudes.
Gold Coast, Australia
The top 10 concludes with the Gold Coast. The Australian city and coastal region in Queensland is located 70 kilometres from the state capital Brisbane. Its main attractions are its beaches, including the world-famous stretch of sand at Surfers Paradise.
