Are you curious to know which European countries are the friendliest?
Embarking on a European adventure can be a lifetime experience, but the warmth of its people turns beautiful vistas into unforgettable memories.
With 18 years of living in Europe, Andrzej knows this all too well.
Since returning to explore long-term travel across this diverse continent, we have found that the difference between friendly and rude locals can significantly impact a trip.
Keep reading as we share our selection of the 10 Friendliest Countries in Europe, ensuring your next trip is as heartwarming as it is breathtaking.
10 Friendliest Countries in Europe
Want to visit countries in Europe where the locals are friendly and welcoming? Where do they enjoy chatting, helping, and even having a little giggle with your children?
Here are the ten most friendly countries in Europe to visit.
1. Ireland
When you set foot in Ireland, you embark on an unparalleled experience of warmth and genuine friendliness.
The Irish are renowned for their conviviality. They are always ready with a smile and a hearty “hello” to make you feel immediately welcome.
Their penchant for storytelling means you’re never far from an engaging tale or a witty joke, turning even the briefest encounters into memorable moments.
Whether in the bustling streets of Dublin or the serene landscapes of the countryside, the locals treat visitors like old friends, often going out of their way to ensure your time in their homeland is unforgettable.
So, expect laughter, lively conversations, and unmistakable Irish hospitality that might leave you wanting to stay a little longer.
2. Portugal
Expect nothing less than warmth and genuine hospitality from the locals in Portugal.
This country is not just known for its stunning landscapes and rich history, but also for its people’s friendly and open-hearted nature.
Whether you’re wandering through the narrow cobblestone streets of Lisbon or exploring the lush vineyards of the Douro Valley, the Portuguese are incredibly welcoming to visitors.
They’re always ready to share a smile, engage in conversation, and often go out of their way to help you experience the best of their culture.
Don’t be surprised if you are invited for a cup of coffee or a glass of local wine; it’s just their way of making you feel at home!
3. Greece
This beautiful country is one of the best countries in Europe to visit. Traveling to Greece, you’ll quickly discover that the sun’s warmth is only matched by the warmth of its people.
We spent six weeks traveling around Greece; even the grocery store locals were happy to teach us some Greek words.
The Greeks are famously hospitable, greeting visitors with open arms and an open heart.
This genuine friendliness stems from a deep-seated belief in ‘philoxenia’, or friend to strangers, making your journey through Greece feel like a series of encounters with long-lost friends.
Whether you’re navigating the narrow streets of a quaint village or exploring the ruins of an ancient city, the local people will undoubtedly enrich your experience with their kindness and eagerness to share the beauty of their homeland.
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4. Slovenia
Slovenia, one of the most underrated countries in Europe, is renowned not just for its breathtaking landscapes but also for the warmth and hospitality of its people.
Travelers to this picturesque country can expect to be greeted with open arms and genuine smiles.
Slovenians are proud of their heritage and eager to share it with visitors. They often go out of their way to ensure you experience Slovenian hospitality’s true essence.
Whether you wander through the cobblestone streets of Ljubljana, explore the verdant valleys, or venture into the majestic Julian Alps, don’t be surprised if locals strike up a conversation.
In Slovenia, you’re not just a tourist but a welcomed guest.
5. Iceland
When it comes to the locals in Iceland, you’re in for a treat.
Known for their warmth and friendliness, Icelanders are welcoming to visitors. They share their rich Viking heritage and love for the land with anyone eager to learn.
Iceland is an unforgettable destination because of its breathtaking landscapes and the northern lights, but it’s also the people who make this island truly special.
Imagine sharing stories under the midnight sun or receiving recommendations for hidden hot springs from someone who has lived there their entire life.
This genuine hospitality is just one of the many reasons to visit Iceland.
The locals’ connection to nature, their sustainable way of living, and their vibrant culture add layers of depth to any traveler’s experience, making your journey not just a visit but a meaningful adventure into the heart of Icelandic life.
6. Scotland
When you set foot in Scotland, be prepared to meet some of the friendliest people on the planet.
Scots are known for their warmth and hospitality. They greet visitors with open arms and are keen on sharing their rich culture and history.
Whether you’re wandering through the bustling streets of Edinburgh or exploring the remote Highlands, locals are always ready with a smile, a helpful direction, or even an invitation to experience something truly local, like a ceilidh or a taste of haggis.
So, don’t be shy! Strike up a conversation, and you’ll find that the Scottish charm is as captivating as the stunning landscapes surrounding you.
7. Italy
Italians, with their zest for life and passion for conversation, are generally welcoming to tourists.
One of the reasons we chose Italy to spend three months with our children is that the Italians love children possibly even more than other adults.
In bustling cities like Rome or Milan, you might find that locals are too caught up in the daily grind to stop and chat, and sometimes we even thought they were a bit rude.
But venture into the countryside or smaller towns, and a more laid-back interaction will embrace you.
The South is famed for its open-heartedness; places like Naples and Calabria offer warmth that matches their sunny climate.
Meanwhile, people might initially seem reserved in the north, but give them time. Their politeness and genuine interest in sharing their culture will shine through soon.
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8. Denmark
In Denmark, you’re stepping into a realm where the community’s warmth mirrors the climate’s coolness.
The Danes have perfected the art of hygge—creating a cozy atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people.
This philosophy extends beyond their homes and into the streets, making them some of the friendliest folks you’ll encounter on your travels.
Don’t be surprised if strangers are more than willing to help you navigate their city, recommend their favorite local spot for a smørrebrød, or share stories over a cup of coffee.
From bustling cities like Copenhagen to serene coastal towns, the Danish charm is omnipresent, inviting you to feel at home in their country.
9. Spain
When you set foot in Spain, prepare to be enveloped in the warmth of its people.
Spanish locals are renowned for their hospitality and effervescent friendliness, making travelers feel right at home.
From the bustling streets of Barcelona to the serene siestas of Seville, expect to be greeted with open arms and wide smiles.
The Spaniards have an infectious zest for life; their passion for food, dance, and conversation knows no bounds.
Don’t be surprised if a casual stroll through the city turns into an impromptu flamenco show or a hearty meal shared with new friends.
In Spain, the locals aren’t just friendly—they’re your amigos waiting to share the best of their culture with you.
10. Malta
In Malta, a warm Mediterranean welcome awaits you, enveloping you like the gentle sea breeze that graces its shores.
The locals, with their sun-kissed smiles and open hearts, are the embodiment of friendliness and hospitality.
From the bustling streets of Valletta to the serene landscapes of Gozo, Maltese people are known for going out of their way to make visitors feel at home.
Whether it’s helping you find your way when you’re lost or recommending their favorite hidden gem restaurant, expect interactions filled with genuine kindness and a desire to share the beauty of their island with you.
In Malta, you’re not just a tourist; you’re a guest of honor in their grand, island-wide home.
Final Thoughts on the Friendliest Places in Europe
In concluding our journey through the friendliest places in Europe, it’s worth emphasizing the warmth and openness that Ireland, Greece, and Portugal consistently offer to visitors.
Our unique perspective, with Andrzej having spent 18 years living in Europe before embarking on extensive travels across the continent as a family, has allowed us to experience firsthand the unparalleled hospitality these countries extend.
The open arms and friendly smiles we’ve encountered along the way have made every moment unforgettable, proving that these are some of the friendliest places in Europe to visit.
For more ideas of where to go in Europe, follow our Europe travel blog.
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- Best Places to Visit in Europe with Kids
- Best Places to Visit in Europe with Toddlers
- Best Beaches in Europe for Families
