In an era dominated by urban stress, noise, and relentless pace, a beacon of hope emerges for city dwellers. A recent study has pinpointed urban centres across the globe that defy the chaotic norm, offering residents a genuinely calming and relaxed lifestyle. Published by Remitly, the research highlights cities excelling in factors like abundant green spaces, efficient public transport, strong safety records, and a culture that prioritises community and balance. From European cycling paradises to nature-infused Australian capitals, these destinations prove metropolitan life doesn't have to be overwhelming. Here are the ten cities crowned the most relaxing on Earth.
European Havens of Peace and Pedal Power
The Netherlands features prominently on the list, showcasing its mastery of liveable urban design. Eindhoven, globally recognised as a tech and design hub, surprises with its compact, navigable layout. Built around cyclists and pedestrians, it reduces chaos significantly. Its green parks and emphasis on work-life balance make it ideal for professionals seeking innovation without intensity.
Often described as a quieter version of Amsterdam, Utrecht combines historic charm with serenity. Its medieval centre, framed by tree-lined canals and largely car-free streets, encourages slow living. Despite being a major university city, life here maintains an unhurried pace, easy on the soul.
In the north, Groningen is a hidden gem prioritising sustainability and community. Cars are restricted in the centre, creating peaceful streets and cleaner air. This affordable city offers a slow lifestyle enriched with green public spaces and a vibrant cultural scene, proving there's more to the Netherlands than its capital.
Rounding out the Dutch entries is Rotterdam. Known for modern architecture and efficient infrastructure, this well-planned port city feels spacious and less tourist-heavy. Its wide streets, innovative waterfront spaces, and practical mindset contribute to a surprisingly calm atmosphere amidst its economic dynamism.
Nature's Embrace: From Australian Order to Nordic Serenity
Australia's capital, Canberra, is a masterclass in deliberate design. With wide roads, low-rise buildings, and expansive green pockets, it feels spacious and orderly. Surrounded by nature reserves and lakes, it offers easy outdoor access while maintaining high standards in healthcare, education, and safety, providing a balanced life away from crowded coastal megacities.
For those seeking warmer climes, Brisbane presents a compelling, relaxed alternative to Sydney or Melbourne. Its riverside lifestyle, outdoor cafés, and abundance of parks foster an easygoing routine under a consistently warm sun, perfect for a laid-back lifestyle.
Venturing into the Nordic region, Trondheim, Norway, offers a serene lifestyle cradled by fjords and forests. With a strong environmental focus, the city fosters a warm, community-oriented spirit despite cold winters. Short working hours, excellent public welfare, and daily outdoor recreation are integral to life here.
Another Norwegian jewel, Bergen, feels more like a scenic retreat than a bustling city. Life moves at a slower pace, with residents deeply connected to nature. Despite its famously rainy weather, the city offers breathtaking views, peaceful neighbourhoods, and immediate access to hiking trails, ensuring there's never a dull moment.
Charming Retreats with Unique Character
Tallinn, Estonia, boasts a fairy-tale old town and a uniquely efficient digital society where most services are online, reducing everyday stress. Its compact size means short commutes, while nearby forests and coastline provide quick natural escapes. The city is defined by quiet streets, clean air, and a palpable sense of community.
Finally, Porto, Portugal, embodies the Mediterranean art of leisure. Life here revolves around simple pleasures: riverside walks, long meals at local cafés, and rich community interactions. A mild climate, affordable cost of living, and a slower traditional rhythm make Porto a highly desirable city for those seeking a naturally relaxed environment.
This study, released on December 20, 2025, serves as a timely reminder that urban planning and cultural values can create sanctuaries of calm within the modern world. These ten cities stand as benchmarks for integrating well-being into the very fabric of metropolitan life, offering blueprints for a less stressful future.
