Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards: Melbourne crowned friendliest city in the world, Sydney snubbed
An Australian city known for its coffee culture and ‘artsy vibe’ has outcharmed the world’s most beloved destinations., beating out its arch-rival up the road.
Melbourne has been named the world’s friendliest city, outpacing other locations including Seoul, Amsterdam and Lisbon.
Victoria’s capital city claimed the elusive title in this year’s Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, which received about 300,000 responses from people worldwide.
“These are the cities we turn to for the warmest hospitality, where we’ve encountered locals willing to help whether we’re struggling to navigate a neighbourhood restaurant’s menu or look perplexed en route from A to B on a new metro system,” the article read.
Melbourne earnt a score of 98.52, narrowly edging out Portugal’s Porto (98.33).
ROAM. Landing in your inbox weekly.
A digital-first travel magazine. Premium itineraries and adventures, practical information and exclusive offers for the discerning traveller.
By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.Conde Nast Traveler also took a cheeky swipe at Sydney, which did not appear on this year’s list.
“ … while Melbourne differs only marginally from Sydney by score, this former city’s cooler climates and distinct artsy vibe could not be more different to its sun-kissed sister,” the ratings read.
“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.
“Splendid standards of public transport, public institutions, and work-life balance also make Melbourne one of the most liveable places in the world, with friendly locals as a bonus.”
Melbourne’s rating has leapt five spots since 2025 when it scored 94.
Visit Victoria chief executive Brendan McClements said it was no surprise Melbourne nabbed the top spot.
“The accolade as the world’s friendliest city is a testament to the wonderful people and tourism operators that proudly welcome visitors to Melbourne,” he said.
“The recognition gives people another reason to visit Melbourne alongside global sporting events, world-class dining and our thriving culture scene.”
Melbourne wasn’t the only Australian city to land in the Conde Nast Traveler top 10 – Perth was No.6 with a score of 97.28.
“Australians’ notoriously laid-back attitude to life undoubtedly counts for two cities featuring on this year’s reader-voted list of the friendliest cities in the world,” the rating read.
“Perth’s warmth makes it easy for visitors to settle into the Western Australian rhythm mere hours after the (likely) uber-long-haul journey it takes most Europeans to reach.”
Despite Sydney being on the 2025 list, it was nowhere to be found this year.
Originally published as Melbourne crowned friendliest city in the world
