This Is the No. 1 Feel-good Destination in the World for Its Sunny Weather, Green Spaces, Walkability, and Air Quality

As winter sets in, bringing with it early darkness and extended nights, many travelers may find themselves experiencing the effects of seasonal affective disorder. To counteract the winter blues, embarking on a journey to a mood-enhancing destination might be an ideal way to start the new year.

With that in mind, the folks at Scenic Cruises and clinical psychologist Dr. Gurpreet Kaur recently conducted a study identifying the top 20 “dopamine destinations” scientifically proven to boost mood and well-being. Topping the list was Split, Croatia.

With over 2,600 hours of daylight annually and proximity to four of Croatia’s eight national parks, it’s no surprise that this Dalmatian Coast city ranked among the world’s top feel-good destinations. Its car-free old town is the perfect spot to explore on foot, with a picturesque waterfront promenade and cobblestone streets lined with charming cafés, boutiques, and historic landmarks like Diocletian’s Palace.

Not only does the city have an abundance of natural attractions, such as Marjan Forest Park and Kasuni Beach, but it also serves as a gateway to the stunning islands of Hvar and Brac. Split, and Croatia in general, are excellent places to try authentic and delicious Mediterranean cuisine.

Second on their list was Amsterdam. Known for its grand canals and elegant green spaces, such as Vondelpark, the city has set forth a vision for 2050 to ensure all residents can walk to a park within 10 minutes.

Coming in third was Tallinn, Estonia, a striking Baltic city with an underrated sauna culture. One place to experience the city’s sauna scene is Iglupark, where visitors can work up a nice sweat in modern black igloo saunas and stay in cozy igloo-style accommodations overlooking the sea. New Orleans and Lisbon followed in fourth and fifth places, respectively, each famous for its dynamic cuisine.

The study analyzed five key metrics: hours of sunshine, air quality, green spaces, walkability, and cuisine. Each factor was carefully selected by Kaur for its ability to stimulate dopamine, aka the “feel-good” hormone. To view the complete study, visit scenic.co.uk.