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This U.S. City Was Just Named the Most Relaxing Destination in the World

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Tuesday, September 16th 2025 at 12:23 GMT by Travel + Leisure
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Travel & Leisure’s Definitive Guide to the Most Relaxing Cities in the World

In the age of relentless hustle, the idea of a city that lets you breathe is a welcome antidote. Travel & Leisure’s recent feature, “The Best Cities for Relaxing Travel,” zeroes in on urban destinations that blend easy‑going charm with a sense of calm. The list is a handy compass for anyone who wants to swap traffic‑jam stress for a leisurely stroll, a gentle tide, or a quiet café corner. Below is a concise, 500‑plus‑word recap of the article’s main take‑aways—complete with travel‑tips, must‑see spots, and the best times to make a trip.

1. Kyoto, Japan

Why Kyoto? The former imperial capital still feels like a living museum of temples, moss‑covered gardens, and bamboo groves. Its slower pace is punctuated by tea ceremonies and the subtle rhythm of a geisha’s stroll.

Key Relaxation Hacks: - Arashiyama Bamboo Forest – Walk through the towering stalks early in the morning for minimal crowds. The forest’s meditative hush is perfect for a quick meditation. - Kinkaku‑ji (Golden Pavilion) – Take a leisurely walk around the pond and soak in the view of the shimmering gold‑leafed temple. - Gion District – Wander the cobblestone streets after sunset to catch glimpses of traditional wooden machiya houses and, if you’re lucky, a geisha making her way to a tea house.

Best Time to Visit: Late March to early April during cherry blossom season offers the softest colors and mild temperatures, while October brings a golden canopy of autumn leaves.

2. Lisbon, Portugal

Why Lisbon? The city’s pastel‑colored streets, winding alleys, and iconic tram rides create a relaxed atmosphere that’s almost a city‑wide sigh of relief.

Key Relaxation Hacks: - Alfama District – Explore the oldest neighborhood by foot, stopping at a café for a cup of bica (espresso) as you drift past the cathedral and the castle walls. - Miradouros (viewpoints) – Take the tram up to the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara for panoramic vistas that feel like a gentle pause button. - LX Factory – Wander the artsy lofts and street‑art galleries for an easy‑going afternoon of creative browsing.

Best Time to Visit: May through September gives you the best combination of warm weather and manageable crowds.

3. Reykjavik, Iceland

Why Reykjavik? The city’s compact size and geothermal culture mean you can sip hot cocoa by a steaming pool and still be on the brink of nature’s raw spectacle.

Key Relaxation Hacks: - Blue Lagoon – Book a sunset session; the steaming waters against a twilight sky are an instant de‑stressor. - Hallgrímskirkja Church – Step up the tower to watch the city spread out, then return to the café below for a cup of local coffee. - Laugavegur Shopping Street – Stroll the main shopping avenue, popping into the cozy cafés and boutique stores at your leisure.

Best Time to Visit: June for midnight sun or September to catch the first northern lights without the chill of deep winter.

4. San Diego, United States

Why San Diego? With its mild Mediterranean climate, laid‑back vibe, and endless beaches, the city feels like a perpetual vacation mode.

Key Relaxation Hacks: - Balboa Park – Walk the botanical gardens and historic museums without the pressure of a timed itinerary. Plenty of cafés inside to take a rest break. - La Jolla Cove – Sit on the rocks, watch the sea lions bask in the sun, and then take a short walk down the coast for a light lunch at one of the seaside bistros. - Gaslamp Quarter – Although lively, a quiet evening walk through this district reveals elegant balconies and a more peaceful side of the nightlife scene.

Best Time to Visit: Late spring or early fall offers warm days without the peak‑season crowds.

5. Ubud, Bali

Why Ubud? Nestled amid terraced rice fields and ancient temples, Ubud is a wellness haven with a strong yoga and meditation culture.

Key Relaxation Hacks: - Tegallalang Rice Terraces – Morning walks through the green ribbons are almost therapeutic, especially when you stop for a traditional babi guling lunch. - Ubud Palace & Market – Wander the palace grounds, then explore the local market at a relaxed pace, sipping on bubur (rice soup) as you shop. - Yoga Retreats – Book a 1‑day or 3‑day retreat to experience guided yoga, organic meals, and serene spa treatments.

Best Time to Visit: May to September during the dry season, when the humidity drops and the sky remains clear.

6. Prague, Czech Republic

Why Prague? The city’s baroque architecture and cobblestone streets create a storybook setting that invites leisurely exploration.

Key Relaxation Hacks: - Charles Bridge – Walk at sunrise to avoid crowds and listen to the gentle river flow beneath the stone arch. - Petrin Hill – Take the funicular up, enjoy the gardens, and then descend via the mini‑magnifying glass for a panoramic city view. - Vinohrady District – Browse the cafés and boutique shops while soaking in the relaxed atmosphere away from the main tourist loops.

Best Time to Visit: April to June for mild weather and blooming spring gardens.

7. Santorini, Greece

Why Santorini? The island’s dramatic cliffs, whitewashed villages, and iconic sunsets make it a picture‑perfect place to unwind.

Key Relaxation Hacks: - Oia – Meander through the narrow streets, stop at a seaside taverna, and watch the sunset from the iconic blue domes. - Red Beach – Swim in the warm waters and enjoy a calm beach day away from the more commercial zones. - Vegan and Organic Restaurants – Santorini’s culinary scene offers fresh, healthy meals that fuel the body as well as the soul.

Best Time to Visit: September to October to enjoy mild temperatures and fewer crowds after the peak summer.

8. Marrakech, Morocco

Why Marrakech? The city’s bustling souks and serene riads provide a dynamic contrast that can be relaxed with a few simple choices.

Key Relaxation Hacks: - Jemaa el‑Fnaa Square – Arrive after the peak bustle and enjoy the evening ambiance of storytellers and lantern-lit stalls. - Riads in the Medina – Book a stay in a traditional riad; the indoor courtyard gardens offer a private oasis in the middle of the city’s chaos. - Majorelle Garden – Walk through the botanical garden for a quiet, floral interlude before heading back to the bustling streets.

Best Time to Visit: October to April when temperatures are comfortable and the city’s heat is tempered by the cooler evenings.

9. Vancouver, Canada

Why Vancouver? The city’s coastal vibe, mountains on the horizon, and commitment to outdoor recreation make it an ideal place for slow, scenic exploration.

Key Relaxation Hacks: - Stanley Park – Cycle or walk the Seawall at a relaxed pace, stopping to admire the forested pathways and the view of the harbor. - Granville Island Public Market – Stroll the market, sample local cheeses, and enjoy the art studios without the need to finish quickly. - Capilano Suspension Bridge Park – Walk through the lush forest and pause for a scenic viewpoint; the bridge is not rushed, giving you time to soak in the surroundings.

Best Time to Visit: Late spring or early fall for pleasant weather and fewer rain showers.

10. Porto, Portugal

Why Porto? Its cobbled streets, historic bridges, and hearty cuisine create a relaxed sense of time that feels like a gentle pause.

Key Relaxation Hacks: - Dom Luís I Bridge – Walk along the upper deck at sunset for a panoramic view of the Douro River without the crowds. - Livraria Lello – Browse the historic bookstore’s ornate interiors; a quiet visit allows you to absorb the intricate details. - Port Wine Cellars – Take a slow tasting tour in Vila Nova de Gaia; the riverside cellars offer a calm atmosphere and an opportunity to learn about wine production at your own pace.

Best Time to Visit: May to October for comfortable temperatures and plenty of outdoor cafés.

Takeaway

Travel & Leisure’s “Best Cities for Relaxing Travel” is more than a list—it’s a playbook for turning urban exploration into a gentle experience. By focusing on early‑morning walks, low‑traffic attractions, and the city’s quieter corners, these destinations let you soak in culture without the typical adrenaline rush. Whether you’re a wellness‑seeker, a history buff who prefers a slower pace, or simply looking to unwind between flights, the cities above promise an atmosphere where the city itself becomes a sanctuary.

Tip: Wherever you choose to go, remember that the best relaxation often comes from slow travel—arriving a day early, staying in a boutique accommodation, and allowing yourself to wander without a set agenda. Happy relaxing!