The Best European Cities For 'Sleep Tourism' According To A New Study
Image of Ghent, Belgium during twilight blue hour.
The sleep tourism industry is projected to double by 2032 with travelers shifting focus from adrenaline-pumping adventures and sightseeing to rest and recovery. It doesn't look like frosty cocktails on the beach—but rather cities that actually allow travelers to let their guard down and truly rest, connect with nature, and focus on wellness.
A new study from sleep expert Martin Seeley at MattressNextDay analyzed the most-visited cities in Europe, cross-referencing the ones that specifically focus on promoting good sleep hygiene practices and also boast opportunities to really disconnect from social media, the internet, and work for extended periods.
The following are the best cities in Europe for travelers specifically looking for a properly restorative and restful trip abroad:
Funchal bay Madeira Island Portugal Aerial view
The capital city of the Madeira Islands earned top spot on the list with a composite score of 75.62. The Portuguese city had the second-lowest level of light pollution on the list as well as the highest number of walking trails per 100,000 people at 23.7. Funchal also boasted the fifth highest percentage of 4+ star hotels and the fourth lowest in terms of traffic congestion.
Old city Bergen, aerial view, Norway
Bergen, Norway, earned second place on the list with a composite score of 66.59. The city has the lowest traffic congestion levels across all cities and the seventh best in terms of light pollution levels. It boasts 4.7 health and wellness clubs per 100,000 residents and has a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere conducive to letting your guard down and truly relaxing.
Skyline of Lausanne, Switzerland as seen from the Cathedral hill at sunset zoomed-in on the tower of St-Francois Church. Lake Leman (Lake Geneva) and the French Alps provide a beautiful background.
The Swiss city of Lausanne scored 56.43 points, making it the third-best European city for sleep tourism. It's one of the most quiet cities in the Swiss countryside and as such is the city with the least amount of light pollution out of all the cities on the list. It's also worth noting that 25% of the hotels in the city offer soundproof rooms and blackout curtains.
Sunrise over the Duomo square in Parma old town.
Parma, Italy, earned fourth place with a composite score of 55.17. The city boasts the second-highest number of 4+ star hotels, the fifth-lowest congestion rates, and the sixth-lowest in terms of light pollution levels.
A beautiful view of Ghent, Belgium.
The Belgian city of Ghent earned fifth spot with a composite score of 54.58. The port city had the fourth-highest number of 4+ star hotels, earned fifth place for low light pollution and an overall safety score of 74.56.
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