Time Out has published the new ranking of the European cities where people live better and where the inhabitants declare themselves happier. The goal? Identify places where people really feel at home, where services work, social life is vibrant and the community is welcoming.
How happiness was measured
The survey involved 18,500 participants from across Europe. Respondents were asked to comment on five key statements, including:
The responses allowed us to draw up an “urban happiness metric” based on the percentage of positive opinions.
The cities where people live best
Seville took first place: 86% of residents here say they find happiness in everyday life and 91% say their city makes them happy. In practice, taking away the smiles of Sevillians seems impossible.
Spain dominates the ranking with three other cities: Valencia (4th), Bilbao (7th) and Madrid (10th). In Bilbao, even 100% of those interviewed said they were happier there than elsewhere – a sign of a perfect balance between work and private life and a relaxed and pleasant lifestyle.
The United Kingdom is well represented with Brighton (2nd), Glasgow, London and Edinburgh. Brighton, in particular, wins the silver medal for its lively and inclusive atmosphere.
Portugal is also on the podium, with Porto in third place and Lisbon in eighth. The latter is also home to one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in the world, according to Time Out itself.
Globally, the happiest city in the world in 2025 is Abu Dhabi, where 99% of residents say they live well.
Italy, however, remains completely outside the European top ten.
The top 10 happiest cities in Europe
- Seville
- Brighton
- Port
- Valencia
- Glasgow
- London
- Bilbao
- Lisbon
- Edinburgh
- Madrid
