Just ONE Australian town made the top 10 'most welcoming' on earth - and a further nine came very close. So did yours make the cut?
The coastal town of Noosa Heads has been named among the world’s top 10 most welcoming destinations – a title unlikely to surprise anyone who knows it well.
The ranking was revealed by Booking.com at its 2026 Traveller Review Awards, following analysis of more than 370 million reviews from verified visitors worldwide.
The annual list celebrates destinations that consistently deliver guest experiences described as personal, authentic and genuinely caring – places where hospitality feels instinctive rather than paid for.
Noosa Heads appeared alongside the likes of the historic hilltop town of Montepulciano, England’s elegant spa town of Harrogate, and Takayama, famed for its preserved Edo-period streets.
According to travellers, these destinations leave a lasting impression thanks to thoughtful touches, warm interactions and hosts who consistently go the extra mile.
Set between golden beaches and lush hinterland on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, Noosa has long been celebrated for its laid-back coastal lifestyle, pristine national parks, and thriving boutique and dining scene.
Its inclusion on the 2026 list reflects the ongoing efforts of local hosts, operators and businesses to preserve the welcoming atmosphere the town is known for, even as its global profile continues to grow.
It comes as tourism in Noosa gains serious momentum, with new openings including Elysium Resort, Allawah Noosa, Italian restaurant Cibaria and Colombo Foodies – a Sri Lankan street-food concept.
While Hastings Street remains its most famous drawcard, Noosa offers countless off-the-beaten-track experiences along the river and beyond.
That blend of natural beauty, evolving tourism experiences and easygoing coastal charm made it a clear contender for one of the world’s most welcoming destinations.
That said, many hope the town can retain its defining spirit as visitor numbers inevitably rise – a delicate balance.
‘Being named one of the world’s 10 most welcoming towns is a proud moment for Noosa and a reflection of the values we hold as a community,’ Tourism Noosa CEO, Sharon Raguse, said.
‘Noosa has long been known for its openness, warmth and respect for visitors, and this recognition acknowledges the effort our industry makes to ensure every guest feels welcome, valued and connected to place.
‘It’s a meaningful endorsement of a destination that leads with care, community and a genuine love of hosting people from around the world.’
‘We’re incredibly proud to see Noosa Heads recognised this year, alongside the record number of Australian partners being acknowledged,’ Todd Lacey, Regional Manager Oceania at Booking.com, added.
Rounding out the global top 10 were Montepulciano, Magong, San Martín de los Andes, Harrogate, Fredericksburg, Pirenópolis, Swakopmund, Takayama and Klaipėda.
There were also nine other Australian towns recognised as the country's friendliest; none were located in NSW, the Northern Territory or the ACT:
