Generally speaking, you want to live somewhere healthy. Somewhere with people who are in-shape, who spend time outdoors enjoying their community, who aren’t sick. You want to vacation places like this too — if, for nothing else, so that you aren’t bored while you’re there. Healthy cities make it easier to be active.
Travel Supermarket, a price-comparing vacation planner, compiled a list of the world’s healthiest travel destinations, based on how many parks, gyms, spas, yoga studios, health food stores, vegan options and sunlight hours a city has, plus the cost of an average night stay, to determine the healthiest (and most active) cities in the world. Here are the top 8 most active cities in the world.
Lisbon, Portugal
Between its hilly parks and pastel buildings, there’s plenty to do and see in Lisbon. On top of being a good place to keep moving and stay active, the city is just about as picturesque as they come. Don’t believe it? Check out the hedgerows at Eduardo VII Park.
San Francisco, California, United States
The natural amenities in this city are unparalleled on this list. Be sure to take advantage of one of the city’s more than 50 parks, plus the 3,000 hours of sunlight the city sees each year. You’ll join residents and tourists alike as you hike through its robust hills. Make sure to book an appointment at one of its many spas afterward.
Miami, Florida, United States
Miami is that perfect mix of culture and glamor, of natural oasis and party scene. Whether you’re interested in the art scene, the nightlife, walking on the beach or eating something new, this city is perfect for taking advantage of it all and staying active while doing it.
Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver offers a lot of healthy food options and a lot of good reasons to be outside. It’s never too hot here to stay busy outside and get better in tune with nature.
Pattaya, Thailand
If it’s nightlife you’re after, Pattaya is where it's at. Party at night in the city’s world-renowned club scenes, but rejuvenate yourself during the day at its highly rated spa and fitness center. Plus, did we mention how affordable it is here?
Barcelona, Spain
One aspect of staying active is making sure you eat the right food to keep you energized. Barcelona has plenty of that, with its health food stores and vegan restaurants. Plus, of course, make sure to indulge in an afternoon siesta before dinner, and you’ll be in the perfect shape to stay active the rest of the day.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai has over 2,500 daylight hours a year, plus a plethora of yoga and pilates retreats to keep you on your A-game. Plus, if you happen to overwork it or just need a break, the city is known for hundreds of excellent spas to help you relax and unwind — a vital part of being active.
Paris, France
Combined, Paris has the most green space, yoga studios, spas and sunlight hours to keep you busy. Its residents are healthy, and its tourists keep plenty busy and active with a wide array of massive museums and impressive monuments to visit. Check out — of course — the Louvre, but also make sure to spend time just walking around the city.