In recent years, the pursuit of happiness has become increasingly important for many people. Many have reevaluated their lives, adding what brings them joy and discarding what doesn’t. International Happiness Day aims to inform people of the importance of ensuring you add happiness to your life, every day and in any way. That’s why, in honour of International Happiness Day on 20 March, Expat Explore is sharing the list of the happiest countries in the world!
The contenders are selected based on criteria such as GDP, social aid, life expectancy, freedom to choose, population generosity and perceived corruption levels. Based on these pillars of a happy life, the happiest countries of 2024 have been identified!
Related: Discover the top travel destinations of 2024!
Take a look at the world’s top 6 happiest countries of 2024:
1. Finland
There’s so much to be happy about in Finland! From impressive natural scenery, including forests, lakes, islands and the iconic Northern Lights, to bustling cities, historic architecture and adventurous attractions, there’s no shortage of things to do in Finland.
In addition to the wide variety of travel attractions, Finland also holds the title of the happiest country in the world in 2024! Thanks to the population’s shared feelings of strong community support from the government and throughout the country, their happiness levels are higher than anywhere else in the world. What’s more, the population of Finland also feel free to make their own choices.
Related: Discover what makes Finland such a happy place when you travel from Helsinki to Warsaw!
2. Denmark
There are plenty of experiences in Denmark to lift your mood! Denmark is home to a host of top travel attractions. From striking historic architecture at Christiansborg Palace and Kronborg Castle to spectacular cities like Copenhagen, Odense and Aarhus. It’s no wonder why it has a secure spot on the list of the world’s happiest countries.
While Denmark is second on the list this year, it could be coming for Finland’s spot in the very near future. Denmark outperformed the top country in many of the scoring categories, including GDP, corruption levels and overall generosity. Pay this dream destination a visit, and take a bit of happiness back home!
Related: Make the most of your trip with our tips for travelling to Denmark!
3. Switzerland
Switzerland is the perfect place to explore if you have a love for beautiful nature! From spectacular forests and crystal clear lakes to towering mountain peaks and the iconic Jungfraujoch, you will have no shortage of opportunities to immerse yourself in the great outdoors.
One of the biggest contributing factors to Switzerland’s overall happiness levels is how healthy the general population is. With some of the lowest obesity rates in the world as well as a long life expectancy, it’s no wonder why the Swiss live such happy lives!
Related: Tick the top outdoor experiences in Switzerland off your bucket list!
4. Netherlands
The Netherlands is one of Europe’s special gems. With scenic landscapes aplenty, iconic national symbols such as cheese and clogs, and the world-famous tulip fields to explore, you’ll quickly discover what makes this such a happy country when you visit!
It’s no surprise that the Netherlands landed on the list of the world’s happiest countries since it scored higher in generosity than any other contender in the top seven. The land of the tulips also ranked high for the general lack of perceived corruption.
Related: Discover the best reasons to visit Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands.
5. Norway
Norway is a breathtaking country filled with scenic surroundings, marvellous mountain ranges and fantastical fjords. With so many outdoor sights and attractions, it’s an adventurer’s dream! But the country is also home to cities and towns ready to showcase their rich history blended with modernity.
While it did not score high enough in each category to take the top spot, Norway ticks many of the boxes that make a happy country. For starters, the people tend to feel cared for thanks to universal healthcare and free education. Additionally, the country is also known for its low crime rates and healthy work-life balance.
Related: Visit Norway’s capital and experience the top things to do in Oslo.
6. Sweden
Sweden is the largest Nordic country, made up of lush forests and farms in the south and forming part of the Arctic in the north. With its rich Viking history and impressive runes, Sweden is a must-see travel destination!
Sure, Sweden ranked seventh among the world’s happiest countries but when you look closely at the individual judging criteria, it outranks many of the other countries on the list. For example, Sweden ranked fifth-highest worldwide for lack of corruption and fourth in the top seven for life expectancy.
Related: There are many reasons to visit Sweden!
We hope this list of the happiest countries in the world for 2024 inspires you to not only see the world but also seek out the things that make you happiest along the way! Why not tick five of these happy destinations off your bucket list and join our incredible Northern Explorer tour?
If you’d like to explore any of the countries on this list, join Expat Explore on a guided group tour designed to tick off your bucket-list attractions. Simply book a tour, and get ready to experience the joy that global travel brings.