Ireland named most welcoming country in Europe

Ireland has been named the most welcoming country in Europe by Condé Nast Traveller in its Readers' Choice Awards 2026, achieving a score of 98.39 out of 100. This marks a significant rise from its previous second-place finishes in the awards for two consecutive years.

Recognition based on Irish hospitality

The magazine attributes Ireland’s top ranking to the Irish people’s love for conversation, their conviviality, and their sense of hospitality. A key cultural element highlighted is craic, which refers to the art of enjoying good times together in good humor.

How to incorporate Irish conviviality

The article suggests that these qualities can be cultivated at home without needing an Irish passport. It outlines seven ways to incorporate more Irish conviviality into daily life, emphasizing the value of social interaction and community.

Practical steps for daily life

These include talking to strangers, asking questions and listening to the answers, making space for others, not taking oneself too seriously, telling stories, noticing those who remain on the sidelines, and preparing tea as a simple form of hospitality. Each of these practices is presented as a way to bring more warmth and connection into everyday interactions.