Top Six Happiest Countries You Can Travel to with Regent
Top Six Happiest Countries You Can Travel to with Regent
Where in the world do people live their happiest lives?
The World Happiness Report 2025, published by the Oxford Wellbeing Research Centre in partnership with the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network and widely covered by sources such as Gallup and CNN, reveals more than just numbers - it offers a detailed look at where people rate their own lives highest on the happiness index by country.
This annual report ranks nations based on a three-year average of life evaluations collected through the Gallup World Poll, measuring happiness and subjective well-being across key factors including social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom to make life choices, generosity, and perceptions of corruption.
From Nordic landscapes to tropical islands, these happiest countries offer rich experiences that nurture the soul - and Regent’s expert travel experiences help you discover them in the most meaningful way.
Discover more about the happiest countries in the world with Euronews
Of these countries that rank the highest for being happy, discover the ones that you can visit with Regent:
- Finland
- Denmark
- Iceland
- Sweden
- Norway
- Philippines
1. Finland
The world's happiest country
Fun husky safari ride in Finland during winter
At the top of this happiness index is Finland, which has been crowned not only the happiest Northern European country but also the happiest in the world for the eighth consecutive year. For the seventh year in a row, Finland has topped the World Happiness Report rankings, earning its reputation as the 'happiest country in the world'. But what makes life here so joyful — and why should you travel there in 2025?
The Finnish sense of well-being is deeply rooted in community trust, work-life balance, and a powerful connection to nature. In the 2025 report, Finland scored an impressive 7.8 out of 10 on the happiness index by country, reflecting its strong social cohesion, low crime rates, and national commitment to equality and environmental care. It consistently outperforms much larger nations in life satisfaction, personal freedom, and generosity.
Regent offers both winter adventures and summer escapes that let travellers experience this happiness firsthand. In summer, Finland is a land of light and lakes — perfect for self-drive journeys through national parks, staying in log cabins, and enjoying the midnight sun in serene forests. In winter, it transforms into a snowy wonderland, where you can chase the northern lights, relax in a traditional sauna, or join Sámi-led activities under starlit skies.
Whether you’re kayaking on crystal-clear waters or sipping hot berry juice after a reindeer safari, travel here taps into the quiet, restorative side of joy - and offers a slower, more meaningful pace of life.
See our article on Finland in summer: top things to do and practical tips for more inspiration.
2. Denmark
Hygge & high quality of life
Nyhavn area at Copenhagen, Denmark
Frequently ranked among the top 10 happiest countries in the world, Denmark earned a 2025 happiness index score of 7.6, thanks to its emphasis on community wellbeing, sustainability, and a genuinely happy work-life balance. This is the birthplace of 'hygge' - that famous feeling of cosy contentment found in candlelit cafés, minimalist design, and slow winter evenings.
In Copenhagen, culture, cuisine, and cycling all blend seamlessly. The city is compact, creative, and effortlessly cool - ideal for a long weekend city break or a cultural escape. From world-class museums and cutting-edge architecture to harbourside saunas and open-faced sandwiches, Denmark’s capital is a masterclass in modern happiness.
For those wanting to explore deeper, Regent’s tailor-made holidays open the door to lesser-known Danish islands, Viking heritage sites, and even the Faroe Islands for a wilder, more remote sense of peace.
3. Iceland
Adventure meets inner peace
Aurora Borealis above two travellers in Iceland during winter
Iceland regularly ranks among the happiest countries in the world thanks to its strong sense of community equality, personal safety, and the deep connection people feel with its stunning natural surroundings. Here, wellbeing flows from quiet moments spent in nature - whether it’s the steam rising from geothermal pools, the vast silence of volcanic landscapes, or the awe-inspiring dance of the northern lights.
From relaxing in the Blue Lagoon to exploring the Golden Circle’s geysers and waterfalls, Iceland offers a unique kind of happiness that’s both energising and calming.
Regent’s Iceland holidays include everything from self-drive tours to northern lights escapes and small-group cultural journeys, letting travellers experience the country’s dramatic beauty at a peaceful, unhurried pace.
See our top places to visit for first-time travellers in Iceland.
Already visited? We know there's more for you to explore. Read our article on where to go on a return trip to Iceland for more unique Iceland trip ideas.
4. Sweden
Nature, innovation & balance
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Cyclists and a boat in an idyllic canal landscape
Sweden is celebrated as one of the happiest countries in the world, thanks to its deep commitment to sustainability, respect for nature, and a balanced lifestyle. Travellers discover a land of contrasts, where enduring Viking heritage meets vibrant, modern culture - and peaceful forests blend effortlessly with buzzing cities.
The cherished tradition of fika - a cosy coffee break shared with friends - perfectly captures Sweden’s warm, community-focused spirit, inviting you to slow down and enjoy life’s simple pleasures.
In summer, explore the countryside on fly-drive holidays through lush forests, sparkling lakes, ancient villages, and timeless landmarks. After soaking in nature, dive into the energy of cities like Stockholm, Malmö, and Gothenburg, where innovative design, museums, fine dining, and boutique shopping thrive amid historic architecture.
For a truly unique stay, try the TreeHotel, where you can sleep in rooms shaped like UFOs or bird’s nests, nestled high in the trees.
In winter, head north to Lapland’s snowy wilderness for husky sledging, cross-country skiing, and the chance to witness the magical northern lights. The cosy atmosphere of log cabins and the famous ICEHOTEL completes a perfect snowy escape.
Curious to see what Sweden has to offer? Discover our top experience on Sweden's West Coast, boasting islands, nature and culture that we deem unmissable.
5. Norway
Joy in the Fjords
Trolltunga rock, the most spectacular and famous scenic cliff in Norway
Another extraordinary country recognised among the top 10 happiest in the world, Norway finds joy in its untouched natural beauty, high levels of social trust, and an active outdoor lifestyle that fuels wellbeing. In the 2025 World Happiness Report, Norway scored 7.4, reflecting its deep commitment to equality, safety, and environmental care.
Winter brings snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and some of the world’s most reliable northern lights viewing - especially from Arctic hubs like Tromsø, Alta, and the Lofoten Islands. In summer, the midnight sun casts a golden glow over fjords like Geirangerfjord and Sognefjord, where hiking, kayaking, and scenic rail journeys offer peaceful, immersive adventures.
Cities like Oslo and Bergen provide a dynamic contrast to the wild, offering modern design, excellent cuisine, and a strong sense of cultural identity shaped by both heritage and innovation.
Regent’s Norway holidays include self-drive adventures, cruises through spectacular fjords, and northern lights escapes - perfect for travellers seeking not only nature, but also the kind of restorative joy that defines Norwegian happiness.
Want to experience a truly unique way of exploring Norway's beauty during winter? Read our article about the best northern lights cruises to experience the magic of the Aurora.
6. Philippines
Islands of joy, culture, and connection
Philippines beach at sunset
Beyond the Nordic countries, the Philippines offers a different but equally compelling perspective on happiness. Ranked 53rd on the 2025 World Happiness Report, it showcases high levels of community spirit, strong family bonds, and everyday optimism, making it one of the happiest nations in Asia. Here, joy isn’t measured by wealth or efficiency but by the warmth of human connection—whether through sharing meals, spontaneous karaoke sessions, or the simple act of welcoming others like family.
With over 7,000 islands, the Philippines provides diverse experiences for every kind of traveller in 2025. Adventure seekers can trek to Mt. Pinatubo’s crater lake or explore the ancient rice terraces of Banaue. Cultural explorers will delight in the Spanish-era streets of Vigan and the vibrant contrasts of modern Manila. Beach lovers are spoiled for choice—from the powder-white sands of El Nido to the tranquil shores of remote, uninhabited islets.
Regent’s tailor-made holidays here are designed to go beyond the typical beach break. Join Island Odyssey or Expedition Coron to discover untamed islands and local communities, or experience the Castaway Island Experience to sleep under the stars and truly disconnect.
Why Travel Makes People Happier
Traveller on top of the mountain
Travel isn’t just about ticking off destinations - it’s about reconnecting with what makes us feel alive.
Whether it's slowing down in nature, immersing oneself in different cultures, or simply stepping away from daily routines, travel allows us to reset emotionally and see the world—and ourselves—with fresh eyes.
Read on to see why these happiest countries offer more than beautiful scenery, and how Regent’s thoughtful, first-hand approach helps you experience them in the most meaningful way.
Plan a Trip to the World’s Happiest Places
Whether you’re drawn to the tranquil midnight sun of Finland, the cosy charm of Denmark’s hygge, the awe-inspiring landscapes of Iceland, or the vibrant island life of the Philippines, Regent can help you craft a tailor-made itinerary that’s perfectly suited to your interests and pace.
Let us design your unforgettable adventure to one, or even more, of the world’s happiest places, ensuring every moment resonates with joy and discovery.