6 Most Livable Cities That You Should See

When you think of moving abroad or buying an international rental property, you might review lists of the most livable cities in the world. The towns that top the list can help you narrow down where to make an investment. The details that make a city livable also make the town an ideal vacation destination. Ample public transit options, entertainment, cost of living, and shopping areas create an enjoyable itinerary.

Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver’s mild climate and natural beauty make it one of the most livable cities. You’ll enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean and the North Shore mountains. The high cost of living may stop you from moving to this Canadian city. However, Vancouver is an exciting place to visit. Take a ride on the SkyTrain commuter rail to get to know the city. The train glides on tracks built above the city so you can take in the beautiful views.

Spend some time outdoors at the VanDusen Botanical Garden. Stroll through over 55 acres of lush greenery and blooms. Next, travel to Granville Island, a formal industrial area that’s now filled with shops and cafes. Parking is plentiful, and you can spend a few hours walking around. Skiers looking for fresh powder can drive to several ski resorts just a few hours away.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

If you’re looking to have fun in a relaxed environment, schedule a trip to Amsterdam, Netherlands. Take a canal cruise to explore the layout of the city. In the evening, the local nightlife scene offers dance clubs and restaurants to suit every taste. Try a few hotspots where the locals go. If you’re up for an adventure, you can window shop in the more touristy Red Light District.

The Netherlands boasts 1,250 museums with 60 of these venues in Amsterdam. Eight of the Netherlands’ 160 casinos are in Amsterdam too. History buffs can visit the Anne Frank where the 13-year-old published her famous diary. Nature lovers who prefer to spend time outdoors can explore over 30 parks throughout the city. You can easily get around Amsterdam by bicycle or on foot. Due to congestion, it’s a good idea to leave the car at home.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna, Austria often tops lists of the most livable cities. Visitors can have fun in Vienna while shopping and visiting offbeat attractions. The Old City offers cozy streets with boutiques and restaurants. You’ll find plenty of malls and outlets throughout Vienna also. After your shopping spree, tour The Lost Garden of Schloss Schonbrunn topiary maze on the grounds of one of the Hapsburgs’ hunting lodges. The labyrinth was rebuilt in 1999 based on the original form that was torn down in 1892.

Another reason Vienna is so livable is its transportation system, which is a plus for visitors too. You can tour many of Vienna’s must-see attractions by using the U-Bahn underground train. The U-Bahn is a safe, clean, and easy to navigate. You can purchase tickets at station vending machines, and the maps are easy to read.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Visit the city with the happiest people, Copenhagen, Denmark. It could be that folks are happy here since they get lots of fresh air and exercise. The bicycle is a top mode of transportation in this progressive city. In fact, when it snows, workers clear bike lanes before they start plowing the roads.

Foodies will love the restaurant choices in Copenhagen, including the 15 eateries that have earned Michelin stars. To get a table at a top spot, make a reservation a few months in advance. Shoppers will find plenty of boutiques featuring designer goods too. For a day of fun, plan a visit to the 175-year-old Tivoli amusement park.

Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland, New Zealand is known as a welcoming and safe city. The city is often on lists of the top places to move. The combination of city life and natural landscape make Auckland a fun place to visit too. Plenty of shopping and a growing art scene attract the most discerning cosmopolitan visitors. You’ll find a wide variety of restaurants offering delicious food and wine to satisfy your palate too.

Outside the city limits, nature takes over. Enjoy time in the sun or go surfing at one of Auckland’s beaches. If you want more outdoor adventure, enjoy majestic views from the top of a volcanic cone on Rangitoto Island or Mount Eden. Auckland also has its share of tourist attractions including theme parks and a casino. Get your thrills on over 20 rides at Rainbow’s End Theme Park.

What makes a city livable? Good public transportation options, an affordable cost of living, and plenty of fun for couples and families top the list. While you may not be able to move to one of these top cities, you can still plan a visit to enjoy the scenery and entertainment each city offers. When you visit instead of move, you don’t have to choose just one city, you can experience them all.