DNO - Ha Noi has been named one of the 10 happiest cities in Asia and one of the 20 happiest cities in the world, according to the Time Out 2025 City Life Index.

The Vietnamese capital ranks 5th in Asia and 17th globally, joining major urban centres such as Mumbai, Beijing and Shanghai.
The annual survey by the UK-based magazine gathered responses from more than 18,000 urban residents across Asia, assessing satisfaction with city life based on factors such as culture, food, nightlife, quality of life and community spirit.
They also rated their city based on these 5 statements: My city makes me happy; I feel happier in my city than other places I’ve visited or lived; The people in my city seem happy; I find joy in the everyday experiences my city offers; The sense of happiness in my city has grown a lot recently, according to Time Out.
As reported by VNA, in Ha Noi, 88% of respondents said they felt happy living there - the same proportion as in Chiang Mai, Thailand.
However, the Vietnamese capital scored higher in optimism and in finding joy in daily experiences, from a morning coffee and street-side meal to walks around Hoan Kiem Lake or joining local community activities.
Time Out noted that Ha Noi is increasingly recognized not only for its cultural heritage but also for its improving quality of life and residents’ sense of belonging.
Mumbai topped the Asian ranking, with 94% of locals saying the city brings them joy, followed by Beijing (93%) and Shanghai (92%).
Meanwhile, global financial centers such as Seoul, Singapore and Tokyo ranked lower due to fast-paced lifestyles and high living costs; only 70% of Tokyo residents said they were happy.
According to VNA, the recognition adds to a series of international honors for Ha Noi, which was recently named Asia’s Leading City Destination and Leading Short Break Destination at the 2025 World Travel Awards, reaffirming its reputation as a vibrant, welcoming and livable capital.
Also, Time Out has listed Ha Noi among the 7 most beautiful autumn destinations in Asia. Meanwhile, the Telegraph Travel Awards 2025, organized by the British newspaper The Telegraph, also named Ha Noi among the world’s greatest cities this year.
In addition, the American travel magazine Travel + Leisure recognized the Vietnamese capital as one of the 15 dream destinations offering great value for money.