Ha Noi shines among the happiest cities in Asia and the world in 2025
VGP - The Vietnamese capital now shares the spotlight with iconic cities such as Mumbai, Beijing, and Shanghai — a testament to its distinctive charm and rising global recognition.
For the first time, Ha Noi has entered the top 10 happiest cities in Asia and the top 20 worldwide
For the first time, Ha Noi has entered the top 10 happiest cities in Asia and the top 20 worldwide, according to the 2025 Urban Quality of Life Survey by Time Out.
This year's survey gathered insights from over 18,000 residents across Asia on what makes city life joyful — from culture, cuisine, and nightlife to community spirit and overall quality of life — offering a rich portrait of urban happiness across the continent.
"Some indices measure environment, economy, and health — all important," Time Out noted. "But then there are the smaller things: the sense of community in your neighborhood, a city's green spaces and nature, its art, culture, and beauty."
In Ha Noi, happiness thrives in the quiet joys of daily life. Eighty-eight percent of residents said they feel happy living in the city, finding contentment in simple moments — a morning coffee at a sidewalk café, or an evening walk around Hoan Kiem Lake. Happiness here is not about grandeur, but about rhythm, warmth, and connection.
Ha Noi's joy is also shaped by thoughtful urban planning. The city continues to invest in green spaces, public amenities, and community programs that foster connection and belonging. Visitors can wander along leafy boulevards, explore bustling markets, or join vibrant cultural festivals.
Time Out recommends travelers immerse themselves in the Old Quarter's lively streets, sip local beer while watching daily life unfold, and enjoy a traditional water puppet show. Landmarks such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hoa Lo Prison Relic, Temple of Literature, Ngoc Son Temple, and Hoan Kiem Lake offer glimpses into the city's rich history and soul.
Ranking among Asia's five happiest cities underscores Ha Noi's transformation into a dynamic capital that blends modern living with cultural depth, friendliness, and tranquility. These qualities — now recognized as hallmarks of well-being — make Ha Noi a city that feels both authentic and alive.
Globally, Ha Noi now ranks 17th among the world's 20 happiest cities, the only Vietnamese representative on the list. For visitors, this recognition is more than just a statistic — it signals a destination where heritage, lifestyle, and joy converge, leaving impressions that linger long after the journey ends./.
