Looking for the ultimate place to unwind in 2025? Whether you’re planning a wellness retreat or a stress-free city break, this list highlights the best destinations for rest, renewal, and tranquility.
Based on Holafly’s 2025 Relaxation Index, these cities rank high for green spaces, spa culture, air quality, sunshine hours, low traffic, and overall wellbeing. But beyond the data, each destination offers something special – from serene seascapes to wellness-driven culture.
Here are the 10 most relaxing cities in the world to inspire your next mindful getaway. I have included for every destination extra guides and recommendations to help you know more about each city – attractions, food, etc.
1. San Diego, USA
San Diego, USA
San Diego ranks as the world’s most relaxing city in 2025, with its golden beaches, nearly 3,000 hours of sunshine, and more than 260 parks.
Home to 359 spas and wellness centers, it’s a haven for travelers seeking calm. Enjoy yoga on the beach in La Jolla, explore the 1,200-acre Balboa Park, or simply relax with coastal views at Sunset Cliffs.
Clean air, chill vibes, and stunning nature make this California gem the ultimate wellness escape. The city has a lot to offer to all visitors – read our complete guide to San Diego – things to see and do, where to eat, tips, etc. – so that you can plan the perfect trip.
2. Singapore
Singapore may be a tech-forward metropolis, but its wellness credentials are top-tier. With 698 spas and wellness centers and 242 parks, it strikes a rare balance between urban life and green serenity.
The city scores highest in global happiness, and its parks like the Southern Ridges or Gardens by the Bay offer scenic calm. Clean, safe, and walkable, Singapore is the perfect blend of modern luxury and mindful design.
To plan the perfect trip to Singapore, use our guides: insider’s guide to Singapore – things to see and do, tips, and more -, 8 tasty Singaporean foods to try, discover when to visit Singapore, and the best places to see in Singapore ranked.
3. Vienna, Austria
Karlskirche, Vienna
Vienna, one of my favourite cities, brings elegance and tranquility together in one package. The city boasts exceptional air quality, over 2,000 annual sunshine hours, and a famously laid-back coffeehouse culture.
With 91 parks and 137 spas, you can easily switch from a stroll in Prater Park to a soak in a day spa. Add in short commute times and a rich artistic heritage, and you’ve got a stress-free European retreat with old-world charm. Make sure you add Schonbrunn to your Vienna itinerary, throw in some day trips from Vienna, and check out some of the city’s amazing museums!
4. Sydney, Australia
Sydney is where beach culture meets city sophistication and you can see here all the amazing things to do in Sydney. With 239 parks, 368 spas, and iconic destinations like Bondi Beach and the Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney encourages you to take it slow.
Coastal walks like the Coogee to Bondi trail offer panoramic ocean views, while the city’s wellness scene adds extra calm. Whether you’re sipping coffee in a beachside café or meditating in a leafy park, Sydney soothes the soul.
5. Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne, Australia
Creative, calm, and deeply connected to nature, Melbourne is a go-to for peaceful travel. Enjoy 215 parks and reserves, over 240 wellness centers, and landmarks like the tranquil Royal Botanic Gardens.
Take a tram to the artsy Fitzroy neighborhood or unwind with a book by the beach in St Kilda. Wellness in Melbourne isn’t just a trend – it’s a lifestyle, and every corner offers an invitation to slow down. You can plan a long visit or a 3-day itinerary for Melbourne.
While you are in Melbourne or Sydney, make sure you try the amazing Australian food! – in this article, we presented you 12 dishes to try.
6. Berlin, Germany
Berlin might be known for its dynamic arts scene, but it also has a quieter side.
The city is home to over 400 parks, forested areas, and urban lakes like Wannsee and Müggelsee. Relax in a thermal spa, explore Tiergarten, or bike along leafy boulevards. In fact, this was one of the things that surprised – in a good way! – my husband on his first visit there: the city is very green! A true pleasure to take long walks!
Berlin’s low-key charm lies in its contrasts: historic streets mixed with modern wellness offerings and plenty of space to breathe.
7. Auckland, New Zealand
Wrights Water Garden – photo from the guide, from the owner
Surrounded by water and lush volcanic landscapes, Auckland is a nature-lover’s dream. I already presented on this blog a local’s guide to Auckland – check it out if you haven’t read it yet.
With over 200 parks and beaches, relaxation is built into daily life. Hike Mount Eden for stunning views, or hop over to Waiheke Island for wine tasting and spa days.
Friendly locals, fresh seafood, and access to both ocean and forest make this one of the most peaceful urban escapes in the Southern Hemisphere.
8. Portland, USA
Eco-conscious and deeply creative, Portland is packed with peaceful pockets.
Forest Park offers miles of hiking trails within city limits, and the Japanese Garden is a true hidden gem. Over 250 parks and a thriving tea house and spa culture make it easy to unwind.
Whether you’re people-watching downtown or browsing a local bookstore, Portland is refreshingly low-key and effortlessly serene – and you can use this local’s guide to Portland to plan the best trip ever.
9. Rome, Italy
Rome may be known for history and hustle, but it hides tranquil corners worth discovering.
Villa Borghese’s gardens, afternoon passeggiatas in Trastevere, and day trips to thermal baths in Tivoli bring the relaxation.
The city has over 500 wellness centers, and its golden light and al fresco dining offer calm in between sightseeing. Rome invites you to slow down and savor the moment – gelato in hand.
10. Helsinki, Finland
In Helsinki, peace and purpose go hand in hand.
The Finnish capital offers exceptional air quality, beautiful islands like Seurasaari, and more saunas than you can count. With long daylight hours in summer and the chance to see the Northern Lights in winter, Helsinki is both grounding and magical.
If you’re after a blend of nature, design, and deep relaxation, this Nordic city is your sanctuary.
As a fun note, the Helsinki airport is the only European airport in the top airports in 2025.
Photo sources: 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10
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