Finland, a Nordic country with a population of 5.6 million, has been named one of Lonely Planet’s 25 Best Destinations in 2026. It is the only European country on the list, sharing its ranking with regions in Italy and Ireland. The nation has also been recognized for its high happiness levels, topping the world’s happiest nation list for the eighth year in a row, according to the World Happiness Report 2025.
The key to Finland’s happiness lies in factors like trust, connection, and a strong sense of community. Finnish culture emphasizes trust, with children attending outdoor schools even in the harsh winter. The country also takes pride in its national service participation rates, with a significant number of men and an increasing number of women volunteering for service each year.
Finland’s natural beauty, including its thousands of lakes and vast woodlands, contributes to its appeal. The country is renowned for its opportunities to witness the Aurora Borealis, especially in Lapland. Lonely Planet describes Finnish happiness as being connected to nature and embracing one’s inner child.
With a low population density of just 17 residents per square kilometer, Finland offers ample space to enjoy its natural wonders. Visitors are encouraged to experience Sámi culture in Lapland, where traditional practices like reindeer herding coexist with modern technologies.
For those seeking a holiday destination with minimal crowds, Mongolia could be an ideal choice. As the most thinly populated independent country, Mongolia’s vast landscapes offer a serene escape from bustling city life, with roughly half of its 3.5 million residents residing in the capital city of Ulaanbaatar.
