Estonians enjoying a sauna. Photo by Tõnu Runnel.


Even although many could profoundly disagree, the readers of Condé Nast Traveler, the world journey journal revealed in New York, have voted Estonia the friendliest country in Europe.

Each 12 months, the journal invitations its readers to “scout out the crème de la crème of European hospitality”, because it places it, noting that this 12 months has seen a vibrant mixture of newcomers and acquainted faces.

“When it comes to friendly countries, there’s certainly no shortage in Europe. Lovely destinations across the continent are filled with even lovelier people, forming vibrant communities of all shapes and sizes. Some are rooted in family-oriented tradition, others embrace a free-spirited lifestyle – but all are eager to share their cherished culture with visitors,” the journal declares.

“Particularly worthy of praise is the Mediterranean region, with half of the shortlisted nations found along this glittering coastline – while one country has made an impressive debut by claiming the top spot.”

That “one country” is, evidently, Estonia. Go determine.

A view to the Tallinn Old Town. Photo by Aivo Oblikas.

Magical outdated cities and majestic wildlife

“Despite making its debut appearance on our list, Estonia shoots straight to the top to be crowned Europe’s friendliest country for 2025, as chosen by you. This Baltic country is often overshadowed by other European holiday powerhouses, but venture off the beaten track and uncover a world of magical old towns, majestic woodland wildlife like brown bears and Eurasian lynx, and rugged shores speckled with over 2,000 islands,” the Traveler says.

“It’s also famed for being a trailblazer in the digital world, as it was the first country to introduce online election voting, so whether you’re meeting Estonians in the flesh or through the screen, expect exemplary interactions of politeness and respect.”

A garden party in Estonia. Photo by Hele-Mai Alamaa.
A backyard get together in Estonia. Photo by Hele-Mai Alamaa.

Estonia is adopted by Ireland, Portugal, and Iceland. Turkey ranks fifth, Greece sixth, and Italy seventh, in keeping with the journal. Rounding out the high ten are Austria, Spain, and Cyprus.

Estonia has appeared in quite a few Condé Nast Traveler and different worldwide rankings throughout numerous classes – most notably for the Tallinn Christmas Market. However, it has by no means earlier than made the high ten in the friendliness class. Evidently, there’s a primary time for the whole lot.

One of the standards, primarily based on which the readers of Condé Nast Traveler voted Estonia as the friendliest country in Europe, is “majestic woodland wildlife like brown bears and Eurasian lynx.” Photo by Remo Savisaar.

Condé Nast Traveler is a luxurious and way of life journey journal revealed by Condé Nast, the American media firm behind titles reminiscent of The New Yorker and Vanity Fair.





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