Time Out: Hanoi, the capital city, is one of the 10 happiest cities in Asia.

According to Time Out, Hanoi residents are optimistic and easily find joy in the simple things of everyday life, from a morning cup of coffee and a street-side meal to a stroll around the lake or community activities.

For the first time, Hanoi, the capital city, has made it into the top 10 happiest cities in Asia and the top 20 happiest cities in the world , alongside major metropolises such as Mumbai (India), Beijing and Shanghai (China).

According to a survey by Time Out magazine (UK), Hanoi ranks 5th in the list of the happiest cities in Asia in 2025 and 17th in the list of the happiest cities in the world in 2025.

This year's survey attracted more than 18,000 urban residents across Asia, who assessed their satisfaction with life in their neighborhoods based on factors such as culture, food , nightlife, quality of life, and community spirit.

Participants also answered five key questions, including "My city makes me happy," "The people in my city seem happy," and "I find joy in the everyday experiences that my city offers."

The results show that 88% of Hanoi residents said they felt happy living there, the same rate as Chiang Mai (Thailand). However, Hanoi was rated higher in two aspects: Many people believe that the capital's residents have an optimistic spirit and easily find joy in the simple things of everyday life, from a morning cup of coffee, a street food meal, to strolls around the lake or participating in community activities.

This result shows that Vietnam's capital is increasingly recognized internationally not only for its cultural heritage but also for its positive quality of life.

Leading the ranking of Asia's happiest cities is Mumbai (India), where 94% of residents say the city brings them joy, followed by Beijing (93%) and Shanghai (92%). According to Time Out, Chinese cities scored well thanks to their safety, affordability, and well-developed infrastructure.

Conversely, many global hubs like Seoul, Singapore, and Tokyo rank lower due to their fast pace of life, work pressure, and high cost of living. Only 70% of Tokyo residents reported feeling happy in the city.

The pedestrian area around Hoan Kiem Lake attracts tourists. (Photo: VNA)

Hanoi, the capital city, continues to affirm its position on the world tourism map, having recently been honored as Asia's Leading City Destination and Asia's Leading City Destination for Short Stays at the World Tourism Awards 2025.

This is well-deserved recognition for Hanoi's efforts in building a green and friendly tourism environment, making it an attractive destination for tourists.

Previously, at the 12th General Assembly of the Tourism Promotion Organization of Global Cities (TPO) held in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi was honored in the "Sustainable Tourism" category within the framework of the TPO Best Awards 2025.

Time Out magazine (UK) included Hanoi in its top 7 most beautiful autumn destinations in Asia, while the Telegraph Travel Awards 2025, organized by the Telegraph (UK), also named Hanoi among the world's best cities in 2025. Travel and Leisure magazine (USA) honored Hanoi as one of its 15 dream destinations with reasonable prices.

A coffee shop in Hanoi. (Photo: Hoang Hieu/VNA)

What sets Hanoi tourism apart is the way the capital city exploits and celebrates its cultural values ​​and heritage.

According to the Hanoi Department of Tourism, in the first nine months of 2025, the city welcomed 26.07 million visitors, an increase of 23.8%; total revenue reached 98.36 trillion VND, an increase of more than 20% compared to the same period in 2024. Of these, international tourists accounted for 5.54 million visitors, an increase of 26% compared to the same period in 2024.

Currently, Hanoi has 3,761 accommodation establishments with more than 71,256 rooms, including 85 hotels and apartment complexes rated 1-5 stars. The city also has nearly 2,700 travel agencies and businesses, and more than 9,400 tour guides.

With its solid foundation, professional team, unique products, and application of modern technology, Hanoi has the potential to become a leading destination not only in Asia but also globally.

(Vietnam+)

Source: https://www.vietnamplus.vn/time-out-thu-do-ha-noi-la-mot-trong-10-thanh-pho-hanh-phuc-nhat-chau-a-post1073846.vnp