Updated March 20, 2024, 08:41 AM
For the seventh consecutive year, Finland has earned the title of the happiest country in the world, according to the United Nations’ World Happiness Report. While many associate this Nordic gem with its famed sauna culture, the secret to Finnish happiness stretches far beyond the warm rooms and chilly plunges. Finns themselves often describe their state of mind not so much as happiness, but rather a deep-seated contentment, stemming from a balanced life and the access to state-funded education, childcare, and healthcare.
Finland isn’t shy about sharing its keys to joy. “An old Finnish proverb states, ‘The one who has happiness should hide it,'” noted Heli Jimenez, marketing director for Finland’s tourism department. “However, as the happiest country since 2018, we’ve decided it’s time to update that sentiment. Our modern motto is: ‘The one who has happiness should share it.'”
Embracing this spirit, anyone curious to experience the Finnish lifestyle firsthand is invited to apply by April 4 for a chance to visit Helsinki for five days in June for “Helsinki Happiness Hacks.” Selected participants will dive into the daily habits that shape Finnish life, with Visit Finland covering travel expenses. Activities range from restaurant tours and forest walks to even a sauna rave. Winners will be unveiled on May 2.
Finland may be the happiest, but it certainly isn’t alone in the top tier of the World Happiness Report this year. Eight of the top ten happiest nations are located in Europe—no surprise, given the region’s robust healthcare, stable governments, and affluence. Denmark, Iceland, Sweden, the Netherlands, Norway, Luxembourg, and Switzerland also make the cut, while Australia enters the top ten for the first time. In contrast, Israel has slipped a spot since 2023, with the bulk of this year’s data collected before the recent conflict with Gaza erupted in October 2023.
Meanwhile, the United States has seen a decline, dropping from the 15th to the 23rd position in just a year. This isn’t necessarily indicative of Americans being less happy—according to the report, the overall happiness score merely dipped by a tenth of a point. Instead, it reflects a rise in satisfaction elsewhere that has nudged the U.S. down the ranking. Afghanistan, unfortunately, again holds the title of the world’s least happy nation.
The report employs data drawn from the Gallup World Poll, evaluating six critical components of overall life satisfaction: wealth, health, personal freedoms, generosity, freedom from corruption, and the strength of social ties. This much-anticipated report has been published annually on March 20 for over a decade, coinciding with the International Day of Happiness.
For me and my colleagues at Outside, access to the great outdoors is a crucial facet of happiness. This perspective has shaped my list of six countries I’d be thrilled to visit—locations that might not align neatly with the UN’s findings. Sorry, Denmark—while your artificial ski slope is intriguing, the slightly less content residents of New Zealand boast world-class heli-skiing!
Finland (No. 1)
If watching mountain biker Erkki Punttila navigate the trails of Lemmenjoki National Park doesn’t inspire you to visit Finland’s northern Lapland, perhaps you’ll reconsider for winter adventures with skis in tow or a leisurely stroll through its rugged countryside, accompanied by a bite of rye bread and fresh fish.
Iceland (No. 3)
After battling long-term COVID, author and Outside contributor Pam Houston found solace in Iceland, where the unique local horses provided a therapeutic backdrop for rejuvenation. I won’t spoil her uplifting tale, but rest assured, her trip to this stunning island allowed her to reconnect in ways that transcended mere sightseeing.
Iceland may frequently grab headlines for its volcanic activity, but it’s also a haven for nature enthusiasts. With its breathtaking beaches, majestic mountains, impressive glaciers, and soothing hot springs, it caters to every type of traveler. From exhilarating cold plunges to lounging in the popular Blue Lagoon, and even chasing the mesmerizing northern lights, the options are practically endless.
Switzerland (No. 9)
The Swiss Alps are a beacon for mountain towns that set the standard for both America and Europe. In winter, the iconic resort of Zermatt draws skiers from around the globe, while summer hikers can explore trails that seem to leap straight from the pages of The Sound of Music.
Outside contributor Christopher Solomon recently tackled the Via Valais, a demanding yet breathtakingly beautiful 150-mile trail running route in Southwest Switzerland. For those preferring a slower pace, numerous hut-to-hut routes beckon hikers to traverse the incredible landscapes, offering comfortable shelters stocked with hearty meals and cold drinks—not your average campsite.
New Zealand (No. 11)
New Zealand’s South Island recently captivated travelers’ attention, earning its spot on the list of must-visit destinations in 2024, thanks to its stunning vistas and a burgeoning selection of accommodations and restaurants. United Airlines adding direct flights from San Francisco to Christchurch is a bonus that can’t be overlooked.
I’d aim for Queenstown in the winter for some skiing, but a summer trek along one of the Great Walks would also be a delightful pursuit.
Costa Rica (No. 12)
Costa Rica made a significant leap into the top 15 happiest nations, jumping from 23rd place last year. Renowned for its outdoor escapades, it’s a playground for adventure seekers. Whether surfing, hiking the Camino de Costa Rica, practicing yoga on the beach, visiting wildlife sanctuaries, or simply enjoying the sun with a good book, Costa Rica has myriad ways to recharge.
Though it’s among the pricier options in Central America, Outside contributor Jeff Garmire and his partner managed to keep their expenses under $500 during a two-week visit in 2020.
Canada (No. 15)
Our northern neighbor boasts a wealth of life satisfaction and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Personally, I have a soft spot for British Columbia, reminiscent of my childhood home in Western Washington, with its rocky beaches, rugged mountains, and lush temperate rainforests. Vancouver serves as an excellent hub for dining and culture between outdoor pursuits like hiking, skiing, and surfing, with ample mountain biking trails to satisfy even the most seasoned riders. A perfect itinerary would include the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway from Vancouver to Whistler.
If the Canadian Rockies pique your interest, Banff lives up to the hype, making it a fantastic location for family adventures. And if you’re chasing the Aurora Borealis, Quebec promises incredible views this year (as do the Northwest Territories for those willing to venture farther afield).
Miyo McGinn is an assistant editor at Outside who finds joy in travel, no matter the destination. Her next international adventure is likely to take her to Canada, just a short drive from her home in Bozeman, Montana.