Plan a Visit to the World’s Happiest Countries in 2025

In Finland, happiness is about embracing the simplicity of nature, valuing human connections, and finding joy in everyday moments. Nature is among the country’s secrets to well-being, a place where you can begin your day with a foraging expedition in a forest led by a local expert who will teach you which wild berries and mushrooms are safe to eat.

Evenings might find you immersed in Helsinki’s vibrant design district, browsing innovative creations by local artisans, perhaps hand-blown glass art inspired by the Northern Lights, sustainable fashion crafted from recycled materials, or minimalist furniture that blends form and function. Join a community workshop to learn traditional woodworking techniques from master craftsmen or visit a communal spa where you can experience the warmth of human connection as you shed your inhibitions and share stories with locals.

Travel north to Lapland to witness the ethereal Northern Lights and engage with Sámi communities to learn about their ancient traditions of reindeer herding and sustainable living. Taste traditional dishes like reindeer stew prepared over an open fire, savoring flavors that have sustained generations.

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Your Gorgeous 9-Day Self-Drive to Finnish Forests and Lake Saimaa unveils cultural exploration and natural beauty. As you leave Helsinki, memories of pristine lakes and pine forests will linger. Beyond saunas and Karelian pies lies tranquility. Time slows among Lake Saimaa's islands or during sunset cruises. You'll carry home not just photos of Art Nouveau architecture and national parks, but also the gentle rhythm of Finnish life. This adventure provides cultural richness and the restorative power of untamed wilderness.

Length: 9 Days

Places visited: Lappeenranta, Imatra, Joensuu, Anttolanhovi

Learn more: Finland Vacations and Tours

Iceland is a land where the power of nature meets a culture of profound respect and community. In the country, happiness isn't just a feeling, it's a way of life sculpted by the elements and nurtured by a society built on trust.

Immerse yourself in Iceland's dramatic landscapes by hiking through Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Feel the earth tremble beneath your feet as you witness the Strokkur geyser erupt, a reminder of the island's volcanic heart. Enjoy the geothermal Blue Lagoon, letting the mineral-rich waters soothe your muscles, or engage with artisans who create stunning jewelry and artwork inspired by the land.

In Reykjavík, attend a concert at a hall overlooking the harbor, where you can listen to traditional Icelandic folk music or contemporary compositions. You could also chase the Northern Lights across the winter sky on a guided tour led by experts who share their knowledge of astronomy and folklore. Bundle up in warm layers and watch as the aurora borealis paints the heavens green, pink, and purple as you connect with nature, embrace those around you, and spend time in harmony with the elements, just as Icelanders do.

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On Zicasso’s Iceland 8-Day Vacation: Dive into the Historic and Cultural Past of Iceland, where Viking ghosts whisper through rugged landscapes as you trace a millennium of Norse heritage amid weathered churches and emerald canyons. Experience Iceland's dual nature in steaming geothermal pools and icy glaciers. Discover how isolation shaped a resilient culture that thrived against odds. This journey reveals Iceland as more than natural wonders; it's a living museum where past and present merge like mist over ancient battlefields.

Length: 8 Days

Places visited: Reykjavík, Akureyri, Vík, Seydisfjordur

Learn more: Iceland Travel Guide • Iceland Vacations and Tours

In Sweden, time slows down to allow you to savor life's simple pleasures. Begin your journey in Stockholm, where you can wander through the cobblestone streets of the old town. Stop at a cozy café for fika, the cherished Swedish coffee break ritual. As you sip your perfectly brewed beverage and delight in a freshly baked cinnamon bun, engage in conversation with locals who prioritize human connection over hurried productivity.

Experience the Swedish commitment to work-life balance firsthand by joining a midday yoga class in Kungsträdgården park, where businesspeople and creatives pause their workday to rejuvenate. Afterward, explore the innovative Vasa Museum, home to a remarkably preserved 17th-century warship, showcasing how Swedes blend history with cutting-edge design.

As evening falls, dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant that embodies the lagom philosophy of "just the right amount”, savoring dishes that showcase local, sustainable ingredients prepared with precision and artistry to reflect Sweden's balance between indulgence and moderation. You might encounter Swedish squid and star anise dashi, a delicate dish of thinly sliced raw squid served with a hot star anise-infused dashi broth that showcases the chef's technical skill in texture and flavor balance. In Sweden, happiness is all about balance, beauty, and mindful living.

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Explore picturesque Sweden on our Sweden Uncovered Tour: Stockholm, Gothenburg, and More. From vibrant Stockholm to charming Gothenburg, discover a land blending tradition and innovation as you drive scenic roads past castles and quaint villages. In Stockholm, explore the Royal Palace's lavish Baroque style and unique artifacts. Cruise the archipelago on a luxury yacht, taking in coastal vistas and towns like Vaxholm. Watch for moose and roe deer. In Gothenburg, Sweden's gastronomic capital, savor world-class seafood amid Neoclassical architecture. This tour offers an intimate glimpse into Sweden's rich heritage and modern allure.

Length: 8 Days

Places visited: Stockholm, Gothenburg, Trollhättan, Askersund, Örebro, Vaxholm

Learn more: Sweden Travel Guide • Sweden Tours and Vacations

The rhythm of life is set to the gentle lapping of waves and the calls of exotic birds in Costa Rica, a way of life embodied in the phrase pura vida. In Monteverde Cloud Forest, walk through misty trails suspended high in the canopy. As you traverse hanging bridges, feel the cool moisture on your skin and listen to the symphony of wildlife. Spot the resplendent quetzal, its iridescent feathers a testament to Costa Rica's incredible biodiversity.

For a unique experience, visit the Nicoya Peninsula, one of the world's Blue Zones known for longevity. Join a local centenarian for a cooking class, learning to prepare traditional dishes like gallo pinto or ceviche using fresh local ingredients. As you cook, learn from your host about living a balanced, joyful life. After watching the sun dip below the horizon in a blaze of colors, join a guided night walk to witness the fascinating nocturnal life of the rainforest, from glowing fungi to elusive tree frogs.

For an adrenaline rush, zipline through the Arenal Volcano area, feeling the rush of wind as you soar over lush valleys, or soak in natural hot springs while you gaze at the perfect cone of the volcano. In Costa Rica, happiness is about embracing the natural world, savoring simple pleasures, and connecting with others. It's a destination that will inspire you to reconsider what truly matters in life, long after your tan has faded.

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Discover the ultimate family vacation in Costa Rica when you embark on our Costa Rica Family-Friendly Vacation: Jungle, Wildlife, and Beach. In this paradise of tropical weather, lush rainforests, and captivating wildlife, zipline through treetops, enjoying breathtaking views and the sounds of wildlife. Take a boat tour in Manuel Antonio National Park, spotting whales in their natural habitat. Explore the Osa Peninsula, home to monkeys and scarlet macaws. Trek through the jungle with a guide, uncovering ecosystem secrets and biodiversity importance. From canopy adventures to beach horseback riding, this journey offers thrilling experiences for every family member, creating unforgettable memories in Costa Rica's natural wonderland.

Length: 7 Days

Places visited: Osa Peninsula, Puerto Jimenez, Corcovado, Uvita, Manuel Antonio

Learn more: Costa Rica Travel Guide • Costa Rica Tours and Vacation Packages

In a land where fjords carve deep into the earth and the Northern Lights dance across the sky, happiness isn't a fleeting emotion, it’s woven into society. In Oslo, the striking opera house invites you to walk on its sloping roof for panoramic views of the fjord. As you explore the city, you will notice the abundance of green spaces and the ease with which locals transition from urban life to nature. Join a guided twilight ski tour through the city's forests, where you'll glide through snow-laden pines as the city lights twinkle in the distance.

Venture to the Lofoten Islands to stay in a traditional fisherman's cabin perched on stilts over the water. Wake to the sound of waves kissing the shore and spend your day sea kayaking through crystal-clear waters, spotting sea eagles soaring overhead. In the evening, join a family for a home-cooked meal of freshly caught cod, listening to stories of island life passed down through generations.

In Tromsø during the polar night, you can witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights from the comfort of a glass igloo. As you lie back in bed, watch the sky come alive with swirling greens and purples, a natural spectacle that has inspired Norwegian folklore for centuries. To experience the Norwegian concept of dugnad, participate in a community project. Perhaps you'll join locals in maintaining hiking trails or assist in a beach clean-up, experiencing firsthand the strong sense of community that underpins Norwegian society.

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Our Cruising the Norwegian Coast itinerary takes you from Bergen to the Lofoten Islands, revealing nature, culture, and history. Navigate stunning fjords, stopping at iconic ports like Trondheim and Ålesund. Experience the thrill of crossing the Arctic Circle. In the Lofoten Islands, explore colorful fishing villages and white-sand beaches, visit ancient lighthouses, and witness the Northern Lights. In Bergen, wander along Bryggen Wharf and enjoy fjord views from Mount Floyen. This journey offers breathtaking scenery, picturesque villages, and unforgettable experiences along Norway's beautiful coastline.

Length: 9 Days

Places visited: Bergen, Byggen, Ålesund, Geirangerfjord, Florø, Måløy, Torvik, Molde, Hjørundfjorden, Kristiansund, Trondheim, Stiftsgården, Stoksund, Rørvik, Arctic Circle, Lofoten Islands, Brønnøysund, Sandnessjøen, Ørnes, Bodø, Stamsund, Svolvær

Learn more: Norway Vacations and Tours

Australia is a place where "no worries" isn't just a saying, it's a philosophy. From bustling cities to the vast Outback, urban landscapes and nature blur in this beautiful country. Begin your journey in Sydney, where the iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge create a stunning backdrop for your morning swim at Bondi Beach. Join locals for a sunrise yoga session on the sand, feeling the warmth of the first rays on your skin as the ocean wraps around your toes.

For a taste of Australia's unique wildlife, venture to Kangaroo Island to watch wild koalas dozing in eucalyptus trees and sea lions basking on spectacular beaches. Join a guided tour to spot nocturnal creatures like the elusive platypus or visit the world's oldest living culture with an Aboriginal experience in the Northern Territory. Walk through ancient rock-art galleries in Kakadu National Park, learning about Dreamtime stories that have been passed down for over 50,000 years. Your guide will share traditional bush-tucker knowledge, teaching you how to find edible plants like warrigal greens, a spinach-like plant, and lemon myrtle, whose aromatic leaves can be used fresh or dried to make tea or add a citrusy flavor to various dishes.

After watching the sun set spectacularly over Uluru, spend a night under the stars in the Red Centre, enjoying a gourmet dinner featuring the native ingredients you have foraged while an astronomer points out constellations in the unpolluted night sky. In Melbourne, lose yourself in the city’s famous laneways, where street art transforms walls into canvases, or join locals for a match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, feeling the electric atmosphere as you cheer for your team.

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Zicasso's Experience the Essentials of Australia in 14 Days tour unveils nature, culture, and adventure. Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef's crystal-clear waters at Opal, Tongue, and St. Crispin's Reefs. Witness Uluru's breathtaking sunset and explore Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, learning about Aboriginal culture. Discover Melbourne's vibrant neighborhoods, arts precinct, and thriving food scene. From the iconic Sydney Opera House to charming Port Douglas, this journey reveals Australia's incredible diversity and natural beauty, offering unforgettable experiences across the country's most essential destinations.

Length: 14 Days

Places visited: Port Douglas, Cairns, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Melbourne, Sydney

Learn more: Australia Travel Guide • Australia Tours, Trips, and Packages

In New Zealand, pristine beaches meet snow-capped mountains and ancient Māori traditions blend effortlessly with modern innovation. Start your journey through this incredible country in the Abel Tasman National Park, where golden beaches meet lush forests. Kayak along the crystalline waters to spot fur seals and dolphins as your Māori guide shares stories of kaitiakitanga, explaining how their ancestors have protected these lands for generations.

For a taste of Kiwi adventure, head to Queenstown to bungy jump from the iconic Kawarau Bridge or skydive over Lake Wakatipu, with the stunning Remarkables mountain range as your backdrop. The adrenaline rush is matched only by the breathtaking scenery surrounding you.

Immerse yourself in living Māori culture in Rotorua as you witness the spine-tingling haka before savoring a hāngī feast, where your meal is cooked in a traditional earth oven. For an illuminating experience, glide silently through underground caverns lit up by thousands of glowworms. This  truly magical experience showcases New Zealand's commitment to preserving its natural wonders for future generations.

In New Zealand, happiness is about embracing the outdoors, honoring cultural heritage, and finding balance in life. It's a place where environmental stewardship and economic progress coexist, giving you a glimpse of a society that prioritizes wellbeing alongside prosperity.

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Our Scenic North and South Island New Zealand Discovery showcases the country's diverse beauty. Experience Milford Sound's fjords, Rotorua's geothermal wonders, and charming Port Douglas. Explore bubbling hot springs and mud pools in Rotorua while learning about Māori culture. Spot rare wildlife like blue ducks and Fiordland penguins. Drive through picturesque Queenstown or hike Ben Lomond for stunning lake and mountain views. This journey promises unforgettable memories of New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes, unique wildlife, and rich cultural experiences.

Length: 17 Days

Places visited: Auckland, Whitianga, Rotorua, Napier, Masterton, Wellington, Picton, Kaikoura, Christchurch, Mount Cook, Queenstown, Franz Josef

Learn more: New Zealand Travel Guide • New Zealand Vacations and Tours

Your voice truly matters, pristine alpine landscapes meet cutting-edge innovation, and four distinct cultures harmoniously coexist. Welcome to Switzerland, a nation that consistently ranks among the world's happiest. Begin your journey in Bern, where you can join locals as they gather in the historic Bundesplatz to debate upcoming referendums, their passionate discussions a testament to the Swiss commitment to civic engagement. As you travel through the country, marvel at the seamless blend of tradition and innovation. Visit a centuries-old chocolatier crafting exquisite pralines before touring a cutting-edge pharmaceutical lab developing life-saving medications. This juxtaposition of old and new is mirrored in the cityscape, where medieval guild houses stand alongside sleek, modern architecture.

For natural splendor, board the Glacier Express to cross hundreds of bridges and pass through numerous tunnels as you soak in the breathtaking views. In the picturesque town of Zermatt, you will experience the multilingual character of Switzerland. Listen as locals effortlessly switch between German, French, Italian, and Romansh, spotlighting the country's successful integration of diverse cultures. Join a local guide for a hike through alpine meadows, learning about the delicate balance between tourism and environmental conservation that the Swiss have mastered.

Over a fondue in a cozy chalet, reflect on the unique Swiss approach to life. In this land of snow-capped peaks and crystal-clear lakes, you will witness a society that has found harmony between civic engagement and natural beauty, between innovation and tradition. It presents a vision of what's possible when a nation prioritizes the well-being of its citizens and the stewardship of its natural treasures.

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Marvel at diverse landscapes and vibrant cities on our Grand Train Tour of Switzerland in 10 Days. From snow-capped Alps to emerald meadows, this journey reveals nature, culture, and adventure. Take a scenic train ride to Jungfraujoch, the highest train station in the world, for breathtaking mountain views. Stroll through Lucerne's charming Old Town, admiring medieval architecture before enjoying a boat ride on Lake Lucerne. Board the Glacier Express to traverse the Swiss Alps, passing through 90 tunnels and over 300 bridges while marveling at stunning views of mountains and valleys. Experience the best of Switzerland in this unforgettable journey.

Length: 10 Days

Places visited: Zurich, St. Gallen, Lucerne, Montreux, Zermatt, St. Moritz, Lugano

Learn more: Switzerland Travel Guide • Switzerland Tours, Vacations, and Travel Packages

Rolling green hills meet dramatic coastal cliffs, ancient stories come alive in cozy pubs, and laughter echoes through cobblestone streets in Ireland. Start your trip in Dublin, strolling through Trinity College's historic grounds to feel the weight of centuries of knowledge beneath your feet. Join locals at a traditional pub, where the lilting sounds of Irish music fill the air and you'll experience the Irish gift for craic, the art of good conversation and enjoyable company that makes even strangers feel like old friends.

Venture west to the wild Atlantic coast, where the Cliffs of Moher rise majestically from the sea. As you stand at the edge, breathing in the salty air, you'll understand why the Irish feel such a profound connection to their land. Join a local guide for a hike along the cliffs, learning about the area's folklore and geology before warming up with a steaming cup of Irish coffee in a nearby village. Drive the Ring of Kerry, where each turn reveals a new postcard-perfect vista. Stop in colorful towns like Kenmare and join a storytelling session by a peat fire, where ancient myths come alive through the words of a skilled seanchaí.

As your journey concludes, reflect on the unique Irish approach to life over a pint of Guinness. In this land of saints and scholars, you'll have witnessed a society that values human connection above all else, that finds joy in simple pleasures, and faces life's challenges with resilience and humor.

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The Best of Ireland Tour in a Week takes you to the rugged Cliffs of Moher, charming County Wexford villages, historic Dublin, and the scenic Dingle Peninsula. Enjoy a drive along the Wild Atlantic Way, standing at the Cliffs of Moher, feeling the wind as you gaze at the Atlantic Ocean. Explore the Dingle Peninsula's breathtaking landscapes and immerse yourself in Gaelic culture in the traditional village of Dingle, where music and storytelling await. Finally, embark on a scenic drive through the Ring of Kerry, experiencing some of Ireland's most stunning vistas along the way.

Length: 8 Days

Places visited: Dublin, Galway, Connemara, Adare, Dingle, Killarney, Kenmare, Waterford, Wexford

Learn more: Ireland Travel Guide • Ireland Vacations and Tours

In Austria, Baroque palaces stand in the shadow of snow-capped mountains and the strains of Mozart mingle with the aroma of freshly baked apple strudel as centuries-old traditions meet cutting-edge innovation. As you stroll through Vienna, the opulent architecture of the grand Ringstrasse is sure to take your breath away. Wander further and you will find a traditional kaffeehaus, where you can enjoy a perfect brew and a slice of sachertorte over unhurried conversation, a cherished Austrian tradition.

Ride the futuristic Nordkettenbahnen from the Innsbruck city center to the mountain peak in minutes. It will give you an understanding of why Austrians have such a profound connection to nature. Join locals for a hike through alpine meadows, the sound of cowbells echoing in the distance, before warming up with a hearty Tiroler Gröstl in a cozy mountain hut. Let music be your guide in Salzburg, Mozart's birthplace. Attend a world-class concert in the Festspielhaus, then wander through the charming Altstadt, where every corner seems to whisper melodies. Join a Sound of Music tour to experience the warmth of Austrian hospitality in the surrounding Lake District.

In this land of music and mountains, you will witness a society that has mastered the art of living well. Austria offers more than just stunning landscapes and cultural riches; it presents a vision of what's possible when a nation prioritizes individual achievement and collective welfare, where a high quality of life is considered a right, not a privilege.

Recommended itinerary:

Zicasso's Highlights of Austria Tour: Culture, History, Nature, and Adventure will guide you from Vienna's grand cafés to Lienz's medieval streets as you experience the country’s diverse landscapes. Ride the Romantic Road to Durnstein, explore Salzburg's Mozart trail, and enjoy a private Sound of Music tour. Take a cable car to Schmittenhõhe for breathtaking alpine views and hike the scenic Grossglockner Road. Throughout your journey, encounter Austria's warm hospitality while discovering its rich heritage, from charming villages to stunning mountain vistas.

Length: 13 Days

Places visited: Vienna, Linz, Bad Ischl, Salzburg, Innsbruck

Learn more: Austria Travel Guide • Austria Vacations and Tours

We hope our information on the world’s happiest countries has inspired you to discover the experiences each has to offer. From the serene landscapes of Finland to the vibrant culture of Ireland, the stunning fjords of Norway to the iconic landmarks of Australia, each of these destinations has its own special charm and character, whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure.

For more travel inspiration, explore Zicasso’s trips of a lifetime. Then, contact our travel specialists, who will design a vacation just for you.