HOW TO HOLIDAY IN THE WORLD’S HAPPIEST COUNTRIES

Aimee
Mar 25
4 min read

The United Nation’s annual World Happiness Report has been revealed for 2026, with two key results.

For the ninth year in a row, Finland has been crowned winner of the World Happiness Rankings. Boasting breathtaking natural landscapes, a progressive society and a focus on social cohesion, it is easy to understand why.

Plus, in the highest ever rating for a Latin American country, Costa Rica has secured fourth place. With a national mantra, ‘pura vida’, that means ‘pure life’, Costa Rica’s optimistic way of life has allowed it to slot into the top five, knocking Sweden off its fourth-place spot.

Please see below for a range of holidays that allow Brits to experience the charm of Finland and Costa Rica, as well as Denmark and the Netherlands which came in at 3^rd and 7^th place, respectively.

FINLAND

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING IN LAPLAND

This self-guided skiing holiday at the Yllas resort in Lapland will see guests ski freshly prepared cross-country ski tracks from the hotel to the frozen lake of Akaslomopojarvi via peaceful ancient forest. The trails are dotted with traditional Finnish kotas – small wigwam shaped huts – and being 200km north of the Arctic circle, this is an idyllic place to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. Other local activities to choose from include snowmobiling, husky sledding, snowshoeing, fat biking and nearby, downhill skiing.

Headwater Active Holidays’ seven-night Cross-Country Skiing in Lapland is priced from £1,299 per person excluding flights and including all accommodation, select meals, transfers and use of ski trails, sauna and Arctic Spa. Departures available March – April 2026 and December 2026 – April 2027.

CROSS THE ARCTIC CIRCLE & VISIT A WINTER SPORTS RESORT

This 20-day adventure starts in Denmark before guests embark on a cruise from Sweden to Finland. Guests will connect with locals over a traditional dinner and learn about the rural way of life in the old farms of Finland. Meeting Terhi, a biologist guide, at the winter-sports resort of Saariselkä, travellers will walk in the boreal woods of the Urho Kekkonen National Park before learning about the rare species that call it home. The group will then cross the Arctic Circle into Norway.

Trafalgar’s 20-day Nordic Adventure itinerary is priced from £5,063 per person, excluding flights, including accommodation, with multiple 2025 departures.

COSTA RICA

EXPLORE COSTA RICA’S NATIONAL PARKS

Starting in San Jose with a guided walk to the summit of a volcano in Poás Volcano National Park, the group will then visit Guayabo National Monument before arriving at the Caribbean coastal town of Puerto Viejo – known for its surfer beaches and jaguar conservation efforts. In Cahuita National Park, they’ll take in coral reefs, ancient shipwrecks and tropical forests.

Animal lovers will enjoy visiting a range of MAKE TRAVEL MATTER^TM Experiences, including a visit to a sloth sanctuary or meeting with the locals responsible for protecting and rehabilitating sea turtles.

Contiki’s seven-day Costa Rica National Parks itinerary is priced from £1,301 per person, excluding flights and including all accommodation, listed meals and a Trip Director. Multiple departures available in 2025. Contiki is for travellers aged 18 – 35.

SIGNATURE COSTA RICA: WHERE THE WILD ANSWERS

On this nine-day immersive, upscale exploration of Costa Rica’s landscapes and culture, guests will encounter the cloud forests of Bajos del Toro for artisan workshops and birdwatching. They will connect with local families in Caño Negro through food and storytelling, and explore the volcanic landscapes of Bagaces. The trip emphasizes farm-to-table cuisine, sustainable practices, and curated moments that foster a deep connection to Costa Rica’s nature and people, leaving lasting memories of biodiversity, culture and responsible travel.

Exodus Adventure Travel’s Signature Costa Rica: Where the wild answers itinerary is priced from £6,635 per person including accommodation, transfers, select meals, experiences and a Tour Leader, and excluding flights. Departures from 3 September 2026.

DENMARK

DISCOVER DENMARK IN STYLE AT NH COLLECTION COPENHAGEN

Discover the perfect balance of energy and calm at NH Collection Copenhagen, a stunning waterfront retreat in the heart of the city. Set beside the harbour, the hotel offers an inspiring base where Copenhagen’s vibrant culture meets serene, scenic views. Step outside into the charming neighbourhood of Christianshavn, with iconic attractions like the Opera House, Royal Library, and Nyhavn all within easy walking distance.

Inside, 394 beautifully designed guest rooms showcase the best of Scandinavian and international style, many offering breathtaking harbour views. From April to October, elevate your stay at ROOF - Bar & Lounge, the hotel’s spectacular rooftop destination. Sip expertly crafted cocktails as you take in unforgettable sunsets over Copenhagen’s mint-green rooftops and historic skyline.

Rooms from £131 per night, including taxes and fees. Please visit NH Collection Copenhagen to book.

THE NETHERLANDS

STAY IN THE HEART OF AMSTERDAM’S MUSEUM DISTRICT

Experience the perfect blend of style, comfort, and culture at Avani Museum Quarter Amsterdam Hotel, ideally located in the heart of Amsterdam’s iconic Museum Quarter. With 163 contemporary rooms and suites, this stylish retreat offers a modern base to explore the city’s world-renowned art and history.

Step outside and guests will find themselves just 500 metres from the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam. For convenience, the hotel is only 25 minutes from the airport, so guests Amsterdam adventure starts the moment they arrive. Whether visiting for art, business, or leisure, Avani Museum Quarter Amsterdam Hotel offers a stylish, sustainable, and perfectly located home in the heart of Amsterdam.

Rooms from €178 per night, including taxes and fees. Please visit Avani Museum Quarter Amsterdam to book.