For the third year running, we've asked our readers to rate a city's "friendliness" in the Readers’ Choice Awards survey.
We found out which U.S. cities greet visitors with open arms; now read on for which international cities offer warm welcome.
SEE ALSO: The 10 friendliest cities in the US
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8. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is a "beautiful city with a history that makes you smile and cry," and "friendly people anxious to show everyone everything" with "a wonderful sense of humor, in spite of their difficult history."
"We loved mixing with the locals in the many hot springs baths," and more than one reader mentioned "music wherever we went... not just concerts, but in the streets, on the radio, and in cafés.""Stay on the Pest side, explore the Buda side" and "if you have kids, go to the entertaining Szabó Marzipan Museum." Up from no. 10 Friendliest in 2014.
7. Kyoto, Japan
Despite many a misconception, "the Japanese are extremely friendly. The best way to get to know them is to visit the same places more than once," or "invite them to lunch or dinner and you'll discover things you would never have known about.""Every step in Kyoto is filled with memorable sights," with one couple remembering finding "a little restaurant while walking around Gion.
It was well off the beaten path and had no menu in English or English-speaking staff, but we had an incredible meal and a fabulous time." Best put: "Peace can be found among others. Such beauty and care for the city. The temples are for all to enjoy and meditate and marvel at."
6. Edinburgh, Scotland
"People really went out of their way to help us, direct us, and serve us," recalled recent visitors. There were "wonderful pubs filled with laughter," and "local musicians playing and everyone smiling and singing along.""What a hoot!""Visiting Edinburgh Castle with a private guide was terrific.
We learned all about the salacious side of Scottish history," plus, "seeing the city lit up by fireworks on New Year's Eve was an extraordinary treat" surrounded by "cheerful and lovely crowds." Beware though: The only chill comes from the weather. "Always pack a warm coat," even in August, said one reader.
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