Melbourne has been named the world’s friendliest city in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, beating destinations including Seoul, Amsterdam and Lisbon.
Victoria’s capital received a score of 98.52 in the annual rankings, narrowly ahead of Portugal’s Porto on 98.33. The awards attracted about 300,000 responses from people around the world.
The publication said the cities recognised were those offering “the warmest hospitality”, with locals willing to help visitors who were struggling with a menu or finding their way around an unfamiliar transport system.
Melbourne’s result was attributed to its coffee culture, arts scene and welcoming residents, alongside its public transport, public institutions and work-life balance.
Describing the city, the ratings said: “Some may even say Melbourne has a European feel, and with nostalgic Victorian architecture, atmospheric bars in graffiti-covered alleyways, and a booming coffee culture, it’s no wonder that our readers connected with its people.”
The city climbed five places compared with 2025, when it scored 94. The publication also contrasted Melbourne with Sydney, saying the two cities differed in climate and character despite being close in score.
Visit Victoria chief executive Brendan McClements said the accolade reflected the people and tourism operators who welcomed visitors to Melbourne.
“The recognition gives people another reason to visit Melbourne alongside global sporting events, world-class dining and our thriving culture scene,” he said.
Melbourne was not the only Australian city to feature in the top 10. Perth ranked sixth with a score of 97.28, with the ratings praising the city’s warmth and laid-back atmosphere.
Sydney, which appeared on the 2025 list, did not feature among this year’s friendliest cities.
