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This Destination Was Named No. 1 in the World for Peace, Quiet, and Tranquility

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, September 8th 2025 at 11:12 GMT by Travel + Leisure
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Finding Stillness in the Skies and Seas: Travel + Leisure’s Guide to the World’s Most Peaceful Destinations

In a decade where “back‑to‑the‑future” travel has become the norm, a select few places have earned the title of the most peaceful travel destinations in the world. Travel + Leisure’s latest feature (published on September 2023) takes a deep dive into the criteria that separate a serene getaway from a typical tourist hotspot and curates a list that is as aspirational as it is practical. The article doesn’t just name the destinations; it explains why each one feels like a breath of fresh air and even links to dedicated Travel + Leisure guides that expand on the practicalities of visiting each locale.

1. Iceland – The Land of Geothermal Serenity

Iceland tops the list, a fact that isn’t surprising when you consider the country’s sparse population, volcanic landscapes, and year‑round aurora. The feature highlights Reykjavik’s quiet cafés, the soothing waters of the Blue Lagoon, and the remote geothermal fields of Landmannalaugar. A linked sub‑article goes into detail about the best times to see the Northern Lights, the low crime rates that make night walks safe, and the fact that most of Iceland’s roads are single‑lane, encouraging a slow‑paced exploration that eliminates traffic noise. The piece notes that the “quiet is part of the charm”, a sentiment echoed by travelers who have found their meditation practice in the stillness of a geothermal spa.

2. Bhutan – The Kingdom of Gross National Happiness

Bhutan is the second‑ranked destination and offers a blend of spiritual calm and cultural immersion. The Travel + Leisure piece explains how the kingdom’s policy of “Gross National Happiness” prioritizes well‑being over tourism revenue, resulting in limited visitor numbers and controlled development. The linked guide on Bhutan takes readers to the majestic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, the tranquil valleys of the Druk Yul, and the peaceful tea‑leaf farms in Phobjikha Valley. Visitors are encouraged to stay in eco‑lodges that blend with the natural surroundings, making every moment a chance to reconnect with the earth.

3. New Zealand – A Land of Gentle Giants

The third spot is awarded to New Zealand, a country that combines dramatic fjords with small, tight‑knit communities. The article highlights the serenity of Queenstown’s “lake of reflection” and the hushed grandeur of Fiordland National Park. A link to New Zealand’s own Travel + Leisure page offers a deeper look into the quiet charm of small towns like Oamaru, the relaxed pace of the Marlborough wine region, and the peacefulness of the South Island’s alpine meadows. Even the famed adventure sports are offered in a way that leaves plenty of time for rest and reflection.

4. Costa Rica – The Green Oasis

Costa Rica’s inclusion on the list underscores its reputation for biodiversity coupled with calm living. The article explains that the country’s “Pura Vida” philosophy encourages a relaxed, community‑oriented lifestyle that is reflected in the visitor experience. The linked sub‑article invites readers to explore the cloud forests of Monteverde, the quiet beaches of Nosara, and the restorative hot springs in Arenal. Because Costa Rica has an extensive network of “eco‑resorts,” travelers can enjoy luxury without the noise of over‑commercialized hotels.

5. Switzerland – Alpine Tranquility

Switzerland’s ranking comes as a nod to its world‑class mountain resorts that emphasize quiet, panoramic views over crowds. The article covers the peacefulness of the Lucerne Lake District, the serene village of Zermatt at the base of the Matterhorn, and the minimal traffic on most mountain roads. The linked guide to Switzerland offers practical tips on enjoying the quieter side of the Alps—like a sunset cruise on Lake Geneva or a midnight walk under the stars in Interlaken.

6. Norway – The Midnight Calm

Norway receives the sixth spot thanks to its vast, sparsely populated fjords and the tradition of “fritid” (leisure time). The feature highlights the silence of the Sognefjord, the night‑time glow of the Lofoten Islands, and the lack of city noise in many of the country’s smaller towns. The linked Travel + Leisure article goes into detail about how Norway’s public transport system and strict noise regulations ensure that even tourist‑popular places feel untouched.

7. Canada – Nature Without a Crowd

Canada’s ranking reflects the country’s immense wilderness that can be explored with little human interference. The article points to the quietude of Banff National Park, the misty mornings on Lake Louise, and the calm waters of the Cabot Trail. The sub‑article includes practical advice on how to avoid crowds, such as visiting during shoulder seasons or staying in less‑known hamlets like Canmore.

8. Japan – Urban Peace

Japan’s entry may come as a surprise, but the piece explains that its blend of ancient tradition and cutting‑edge technology creates a uniquely calm atmosphere. The article highlights the meditative gardens of Kyoto, the tranquility of the Nara deer park, and the hushed ambiance of Kyoto’s tea houses. A linked guide takes readers to the quietest neighborhoods in Tokyo—such as the Yanaka district—where narrow streets and historic architecture provide a respite from the neon bustle.

9. Seychelles – Uninhabited Heaven

The Seychelles rank ninth for their almost “off‑grid” nature. The article explains that many of the islands remain largely untouched by development, providing endless stretches of white sand and turquoise water. The linked sub‑article suggests staying in secluded eco‑villas and taking sunrise hikes on La Digue, where the lack of motorized traffic ensures a peaceful experience.

10. Finland – Nighttime Silence

Finland closes the list on a note of pristine night‑time calm. The article discusses the quiet beauty of the Finnish Lakeland, the hushed forests of Lapland, and the famous “silent sauna” experiences that encourage deep reflection. The linked guide provides details on how to book a remote cabin, the best times to see the aurora, and the cultural importance of the sauna as a place of silence and self‑discovery.

How the List Was Formed

Travel + Leisure explains that the ranking is based on a mixture of qualitative and quantitative data: traveler reviews, crime statistics, average noise levels measured in decibels, and the number of tourists per square kilometer. They also consulted local tourism boards and used satellite imagery to assess crowd density. The article stresses that the goal is to identify places that “offer a sense of calm that is palpable, rather than a simply “less busy” experience.”

Practical Takeaways

Each destination link includes actionable tips such as:

• The best time of year to visit for minimal crowds.
• Suggested accommodation that emphasizes quiet.
• Activities that are specifically designed to promote relaxation, from geothermal baths to night‑time stargazing.
• Transportation advice to avoid traffic noise and congested areas.

Travel + Leisure also reminds readers that peacefulness can be relative; a “quiet” city in one culture may be loud in another, and vice versa. Therefore, choosing the right accommodation and planning out the day are essential to creating a truly tranquil getaway.

Bottom Line

The article’s overarching message is simple: the world is full of places that allow you to turn down the volume and turn up the soul. From Iceland’s volcanic hush to Bhutan’s meditative monasteries, the list showcases destinations that are perfect for travelers seeking more than a vacation—they’re looking for a sanctuary. The included links make it easy for readers to dive deeper into each locale, plan their trip, and finally experience the quiet the article promises. Whether you’re an avid traveler or a weekend escapee, there’s no shortage of serene corners waiting to be explored.