This Low Key Canadian Capital Was Just Named the World's Friendliest City
Some travelers prioritize low costs. Others great food or beautiful vistas. But what about the people?
Condé Nast Traveler has spent the last 37 years asking its readers where they found the friendliest locals in their travels. For the 2024 edition, you need to look no further than Canada for the answer. According to its annual survey, Victoria, British Columbia is the world's friendliest city.
The publication notes that the city is famous for its "distinct small-town energy thanks to its small population and abundance of nature around every corner" despite being the capital of British Columbia and just a short jaunt away from Vancouver (as well as Seattle, WA). Its old-world architecture and proximity to beautiful natural sights were also cited.
Canada—known for its friendly residents—was the only country to score three entries on this year's list, with Quebec City and Vancouver also appearing. Australia nabbed a pair of entries, while countries like Porgtugal, Iceland, Japan, Singapore, and South Africa were also represented.
See the Top 10 below and check out the full list over on Condé Nast Traveler.
- Victoria, Canada
- Oporto, Portugal
- Reykjavik, Iceland
- Melbourne, Australia
- Singapore
- Kyoto, Japan
- Sydney, Australia
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Quebec City, Canada
- Vancouver, Canada