Portugal is often considered one of the most welcoming and hospitable countries in the world, with international studies and surveys repeatedly placing the Portuguese people at the top of tourists’ favourites. It is therefore no surprise that Porto has been awarded the title of “Europe’s friendliest city”.
The distinction comes from readers of Condé Nast Traveller in the Readers’ Choice Awards 2026 (source in Portuguese), which also place the city of Lisbon in second position in this category.
The vote aims to identify cities where “hospitality is at its warmest” and “you find locals eager to help, whether you’re trying to make sense of a neighbourhood restaurant’s menu or looking confused on the metro”.
The recognition now given to the Invicta, as Porto is known, “reflects the significant rise in Porto’s popularity as the ideal city-break refuge, both for lovers of good food and for culture enthusiasts”, the magazine explains, also highlighting the city’s authenticity and relaxed atmosphere.
“Unwind in a stunning square lined with azulejo tiles or share petiscos – small portions of local delicacies – with residents in a neighbourhood restaurant”, Condé Nast encourages, “and you will quickly realise how generous hospitality has made Porto a destination many of us end up returning to time and time again”.
Lisbon appears in the next spot. “Few European cities are as picturesque as the sun-drenched Portuguese capital, famous for being built on the seven hills that punctuate the banks of the River Tagus”, the magazine notes, describing it as “a wonderful city of winding alleys, soulful fado and creamy pastéis de nata”.
“But what really ties it all together is the people. A youthful, inclusive atmosphere pulses through its steep neighbourhoods, and there are plenty of opportunities for travellers to get involved too. Experiencing the vibrant café culture is unmissable, where groups gather to savour their ritual morning espressos, or visiting during the Festival of Saint Anthony to see the cobbled streets fill with open-air parties”, the publication recommends.
In the European ranking, the top five is completed by mentions of Amsterdam in the Netherlands, Stockholm in Sweden and Valletta in Malta.