These Are The Friendliest Countries In Europe To Tourists

As a tourist in Europe, you want to feel invited and welcomed. Sparking a conversation doesn’t need to be difficult when the locals are friendly, even if a language barrier attempts to get in the way. Make your European venture one to remember by visiting a destination with the friendliest locals, as they can help enrich your trip by doing things like offering the best recommendations.

Digital money transfer platform Remitly shared a report about the world’s friendliest nations, and we’re going to dig into the ones that are the friendliest toward tourists within Europe. The friendliest countries are determined using the Big 5 personality test, which includes assessing locals’ five key personality traits: openness, conscientiousness, agreeableness, extraversion, and neuroticism—the top friendliest countries in Europe to tourists may or may not surprise you.

7 Czech Republic, 32.36 Rating

Czechs consume the most beer per capita in the world, yet the beer isn’t the most appealing thing about this landlocked European destination

The Czech Republic, once named Bohemia, is a landlocked country in central Europe that’s world-famous for its breweries and local beer, and it’s home to one of the largest castles in the world. It has a 32.35 rating out of 40 from the Big 5 personality test, thanks to locals with positive personality traits.

You’ll notice the overly friendly locals when you arrive in the Czech Republic. Prague taxi drivers won’t push you to hire them, but they’ll smile and offer advice. Meanwhile, hotel staff and restaurant waiters will go out of their way to help you. It might feel strange if you are from a place where the locals aren’t overly kind. But soak it all up, as you won’t be short of friendly conversations and helpful locals wherever you go. Enjoy a beer tour, visiting Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, or surrounding countryside areas like Kutna Hora or Lednice.

6 Belgium, 32.50 Rating

The happy locals in Belgium might be heavily influenced by the fantastic food and drink culture

Belgium is world famous for its local beer, chocolate, waffles, and French fries. So, it’s no wonder that the country scores a positive 32.50 rating. The Belgian lifestyle is very relaxed. Visit the capital of Brussels or a quirky area like Antwerp, and you’ll notice the slow-paced lifestyle, even among the busy areas.

The country is jam-packed with unique architecture, including the Grand Place, Atomium (considered the Eiffel Tower of Belgium), Gravensteen, Belfry of Bruges, and the historic center of Bruges. After wandering the sites, indulge in incredible sweet treats or a local beer tour.

One of the most unique places to visit in Belgium is the Walzin Castle Viewpoint in Dinant, famous for its private grounds. You can’t access the property directly, but park on the Lesse River road and cross the bridge to get a glimpse of the grounds.

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5 Estonia, 32.58 Rating

Offering incredible hospitality and wonderful scenery, Estonia is the fifth-friendliest country in Europe

Estonia scores ninth place in the world for the friendliest locals to tourists, with a 32.58 rating out of 40. It’s placed fifth among European countries, likely due to its hospitality and understanding of personal space. Estonians appreciate privacy and personal space, so they’ll be sure to give you plenty when you visit.

The hospitality in Estonia is next to none, and their politeness goes a long way. If you find the locals reserved, they aren’t being rude but simply polite. Don’t fret about sparking a conversation by asking questions and making recommendations; they will surely help.

Some of Estonia’s most spectacular places to visit include the historic capital city of Tallinn, the funky street art in Tartu, and the wonderful Christmas markets. Venture out of the cities to places like Laheema for its national park, where you’ll be amazed by the untouched native forests.

4 Germany, 32.66 Rating

From the cities to the countryside, German residents will always offer a helping hand

Germany’s fourth position on the list of the friendliest countries in Europe might surprise you, as the locals don’t have the best reputation for being warm. However, German locals will limit their small talk, but when asked questions, they’re always more than happy to help.

German culture also offers incredible sausages, football, and castles. You won’t be short of beautiful historic architecture to visit, no matter where you choose. Whether you visit Berlin and Munich or head for wonderful country locations like Lubeck or Germany’s Black Forest, locals will always offer a helping hand. During winter, the country becomes a magical wonderland with authentic German markets. With a score of 32.66 out of 40, it makes the castle-filled country worth the visit if you want to feel more than welcome in Europe.

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3 Sweden, 33.30 Rating

Swedish locals value honesty and open tourists with open arms, making it the only Scandinavian country in the top seven

Travel to Scandinavia to the third most friendly country in Europe, Sweden, with a rating of 33.30. Like German residents, you might initially find the locals slightly reserved. This is due to their private nature. However, they’ll welcome questions and small talk with open arms. If you wish to make friends with locals, you’ll find that they’re fun, spontaneous, and up for a good time.

Sweden is a country full of stunning landscapes and fascinating history. More than half of Sweden is covered in forest, so there’s plenty to enjoy in terms of natural beauty. The most popular landscape spots are Abisko National Park, Tyresta National Park, and Tiveden National Park for majestic wildlife and stunning lakes. Meanwhile, head to Stockholm, Malmo, or Gothenburg for history and incredible architecture and to experience the friendly, relaxed lifestyle.

2 Croatia, 33.50 Rating

Home to the Dalmatian Coast and impressive gastronomy, Croatia is a must-visit for tourists who seek a friendly European atmosphere

Croatia is second on the list of the friendliest European countries, with a 33.50 rating. There’s no question as to why the locals adore tourists, thanks to them helping their economy. Croatians love to be welcoming and offer the best first impressions so that tourists return for many vacations. As a tourist, it would be hard to divert elsewhere in Europe as Croatia provides astonishing scenery and food.

Visit the popular Croatian city of Dubrovnik to experience city life and history, or head to Hvar or Brac to experience the laid-back island life. You can’t beat the Dalmatian coast and Croatian islands for incredible gastronomy. The local crni rizot (black risotto) and meat dishes (Peka or Cevapi) are delicious and will make you want to return to the country simply for the welcoming locals and food.

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1 Greece, 33.71 Rating

Enjoy laid-back island life or ancient ruin tours on a trip to the friendliest country in Europe

Welcome to the friendliest European country of them all, Greece. Steeped in ancient history and stunning sandy beaches, Greece pleases every tourist. You can visit the Greek islands of Mykonos, Rhodes, Kos, or Santorini to be amongst some of Europe’s most surreal beaches or head to Athens or Thessaloniki to visit ancient ruins and archeological sites. No matter where you vacation or live in Greece, you’ll be welcomed by friendly locals and impressive food.

The Greek God Zeus was known to protect locals and travelers. Today, locals strive to carry on this tradition, so you’ll notice that locals love to start conversations at any given moment. Home-cooked meals, beautiful sites, and friendly locals make this 33.71-rated country an ideal tourist getaway.