The most welcoming places on Earth for 2025 have been revealed – and it’s Sigiriya in Sri Lanka that’s No.1 overall, with Chester topping the ranking for the UK and coming 10th globally.

The rankings have been drawn up by Booking.com, with entries identified based on the number of Traveller Review Awards each has.

Sigiriya is a 180m (590ft) high ancient rock fortress in Sri Lanka’s Matale District that’s surrounded by around two-dozen hotels that are on Booking.com.

Following the Unesco World Heritage Site on the worldwide list are Cazorla, Spain (second); Urubici, Brazil (third); and Taupo, New Zealand (fourth), which Booking.com says has ‘serene landscapes and a warm and welcoming nature, with cosy cafes, and a vibrant local arts scene’.

Coming fifth is St. Augustine, Florida – which is the oldest city in America, having been founded in 1565.

The most welcoming places on Earth for 2025 have been revealed – and it’s Sigiriya (above) in Sri Lanka that’s No.1 overall. Sigiriya is a 180m- (590ft) high ancient rock fortress in Sri Lanka’s Matale District that’s surrounded by around two-dozen hotels that are bookable on Booking.com

Chester tops the ranking for the UK and comes 10th globally, with Booking.com describing it as ‘a captivating blend of Roman, medieval, and Tudor architecture’

Newry, County Down, in Northern Ireland, has been voted the second-most welcoming place in the UK

The rest of the global list comprises Orvieto, Italy (sixth); Manizales, Colombia (seventh); Quedlinburg, Germany (eighth); and Ko Lanta in Thailand (ninth). 

Speaking about northern city Chester’s win, Booking.com said: ‘The historic gem offers a captivating blend of Roman, medieval, and Tudor architecture, all nestled within well-preserved city walls.

‘Known for its friendly locals and vibrant community spirit, Chester exudes a warm, inviting charm that leaves visitors feeling truly at home.’ 

Completing the rest of the eight-strong UK ranking are Newry, County Down (second); Enniskillen, County Fermanagh (third); Portstewart, County Londonderry (fourth); Woolacombe, Devon (fifth); Haworth, West Yorkshire (sixth); Newcastle, County Down (seventh); and Cheddar, Somerset (eighth).

Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, in Northern Ireland, takes the bronze medal for the UK ranking

Cazorla, Spain, is Europe’s highest entry – it’s rated the second-most welcoming place in the world

Urubici, Brazil, is the third-most welcoming place in the world, according to Booking.com

Booking.com based its awards on more than 360million verified customer reviews, evaluating the hospitality, service and standards of travel accommodations, activities and transport purveyors.

Only customers that have stayed at an accommodation, rented a car or rode in a taxi can leave a review of their experience on Booking.com.

Booking.com said: ‘This year’s Most Welcoming Places on Earth list highlights a diverse array of destinations from around the globe.

‘Whether it’s coffee farms and pristine beaches or medieval hideaways and jungle towns, these destinations showcase the world’s diverse charm and hospitality, inspiring unforgettable adventures in the year ahead.’

Taupo, New Zealand, comes fourth overall, with Booking.com praising its ‘serene landscapes and warm and welcoming nature’

Florida’s St. Augustine is the oldest city in America, having been founded in 1565, and comes fifth on the global list