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Europe

European Cities With the Highest Quality of Life

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Each year, two global surveys, Mercer’s Quality of Living Survey and The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) Liveability Index, measure metrics such as crime rates, healthcare, infrastructure, quality of water, levels of corruption, culture and education, down to availability of sporting facilities and environmental concerns. They then decide which cities in the world are the best to live and thrive in.

This is all well and good if you are a roaming nomad and have the freedom to choose where you will live and work in the future. Many of us, though, at least have the option to travel and pick the best places to visit. And if a city is livable, then it is usually also visitable.

The same European city came out as the overall winner on both of the surveys. Here’s a list of the most livable European and Eurasian cities, along with their rankings across the globe, and why you should visit if you can’t move to one of them.

58. Baku, Azerbaijan

Baku Azerbaijani capital
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World ranking: 195

Population: 2.236 million

*Note: Global rankings were sourced from the 2019 Mercer’s Quality of Living Survey before both the pandemic and the conflict between Russia and Ukraine started.

Bottom Line: Baku, Azerbaijan

Baku, Azerbaijan
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The capital city of Azerbaijan is also the largest city on the Caspian Sea, where Europe meets Asia. In fact, it is located 92 feet below sea level, making it the lowest-lying national capital in the world.

With a reputation as the “Paris of the East,” you better believe Baku is architecturally beautiful, combining styles of the Old City with modern structures that make up Baku port.

Best Things to Do in Baku

Baku city night view, Azerbaijan
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If it’s history you’re looking for, head to the Inner City of Baku, which (along with the Shirvanshah’s Palace and Maiden Tower) is deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The city’s newer side offers a playground for revelry, making it an incredible destination for urban nightlife.

Where to stay: Badam D’art Boutique Hotel  

57. Minsk, Belarus

Minsk, Belarus waterfront
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World ranking: 188

Population: 1.975 million