Portugal has Europe’s two Friendliest Cities

Porto came first, followed closely by Lisbon, in the 2026 Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards, which asked travellers to state the cities where they felt most welcome.

And while Portugal is already known for its beaches, food and sunshine, this particular award is about something a little different: it’s about the people.

For Porto, the recognition comes as the city continues to grow in popularity with visitors looking for a weekend away.

Condé Nast Traveller praised its friendly atmosphere, local restaurants and the opportunity to experience everyday Portuguese life, whether that’s sharing petiscos or spending an afternoon exploring its tiled squares.

Sense of community

Lisbon isn’t far behind.

The capital took second place, with readers drawn to its lively neighbourhoods, café culture and the sense of community that runs through the city.

From a morning coffee to the street celebrations of Santo António, the magazine highlighted the experiences that allow visitors to feel part of local life.

Welcoming experiences

Amsterdam came third, followed by Stockholm and Valletta, completing the European top five.

The results are based on readers’ experiences rather than an official assessment of hospitality, but having two Portuguese cities at the top is a welcome kudos for the country.

And perhaps a reminder that sometimes what visitors take away about a place isn’t what they saw, but how they were welcomed.