European city named best for a ‘dopamine’ boost – and is a great walking destination

With this Saturday (December 21) marking the shortest day of the year, now is the perfect time to explore the world’s top dopamine-boosting .

A new study from , in collaboration with clinical psychologist Dr Gurpreet Kaur, has revealed the destinations scientifically proven to boost someone’s mood.

From Amsterdam’s lush green spaces to Lisbon’s vibrant food scene, the study highlights destinations abundant in sunshine, clean air, green spaces, walkability, and delicious cuisine.

Dr Kaur carefully selected each metric because they can stimulate dopamine, commonly known as the “feel-good hormone.” He said: “Sunshine exposure naturally boosts dopamine levels, while quality cuisine offers essential nutrients and enjoyment.

” reduces cortisol, helping to regulate dopamine, and clean air enhances brain function. Studies have also shown that green spaces encourage mindfulness, which helps to increase dopamine. Together, these elements create destinations that refresh and elevate mood.”

Bench and yellow tree in autumn park

9. Vancouver

Annual sunshine hours – 1,938

Air quality PM2.5 (μg/m3) – 7

Quality of green spaces (Out of 100) – 85

Avg. restaurant Google rating (Out of 5) – 4.5

Walkability score (Out of 100) – 56

Overall score (Out of 100) – 90

(Image: Getty)

Panoramic aerial image of Liverpool

8. Liverpool

Annual sunshine hours – 1,507

Air quality PM2.5 (μg/m3) – 8

Quality of green spaces (Out of 100) – 80

Avg. restaurant Google rating (Out of 5) – 4.5

Walkability score (Out of 100) – 56

Overall score (Out of 100) – 90

(Image: Getty)

View of Malaga, Andalusia, Spain

7. Malaga

Annual sunshine hours – 2,919

Air quality PM2.5 (μg/m3) – 17

Quality of green spaces (Out of 100) – 69

Avg. restaurant Google rating (Out of 5) – 4.5

Walkability score (Out of 100) – 76

Overall score (Out of 100) – 93

(Image: Getty)

Woman sunbathing in the beach, Cadiz

6. Cadiz

Annual sunshine hours – 3,024

Air quality PM2.5 (μg/m3) – 18

Quality of green spaces (Out of 100) – 56

Avg. restaurant Google rating (Out of 5) – 4.5

Walkability score (Out of 100) – 95

Overall score (Out of 100) – 94

(Image: Getty)

Praça do Comércio - Lisbon - Portugal

5. Lisbon

Annual sunshine hours – 2,806

Air quality PM2.5 (μg/m3) – 12

Quality of green spaces (Out of 100) – 68

Avg. restaurant Google rating (Out of 5) – 4.6

Walkability score (Out of 100) – 64

Overall score (Out of 100) – 95

(Image: Getty)

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