Blissful Aussie holiday town named among most welcoming places on the planet

A blissful Aussie holiday town has been named one of the most welcoming cities in the world.

Noosa Heads was the only Australian destination to crack the global top 10 in Booking.com's 14th annual Traveller Review Awards.

It was joined by Montepulciano (Italy), Magong (Taiwan), San Martn de los Andes (Argentina), Harrogate (UK), Fredericksburg (USA), Pirenpolis (Brazil), Swakopmund, (Namibia) Takayama (Japan) and Klaipeda (Lithuania) in no particular order.

The awards recognise destinations where visitors report feeling genuinely welcomed, valued and connected to place.

Tourism Noosa chief executive Sharon Raguse said the honour was a "proud moment" for the region.

"Noosa has long been known for its openness, warmth and respect for visitors, and this recognition reflects the effort our industry makes to ensure every guest feels welcome and cared for," she said.

Australia also had its own most welcoming cities list, naming Noosa first. Montville and Laidley in Queensland, Margaret River in Western Australia and Port Campbell in Victoria were also top destinations.

Noosa continues to draw both domestic and international travellers, with its laid-back coastal lifestyle, pristine national parks, upmarket shopping and thriving dining scene.

Standout attractions include Noosa Main Beach - one of Australia's few north-facing beaches, prized for its calm waters and family-friendly conditions - Noosa National Park known for its coastal tracks and secret swimming holes, and Hastings Street's mix of designer boutiques and high-end restaurants.

Waterfront venues such as Sails, Bistro C and Noosa Beach House offer uninterrupted ocean views, cementing the town's reputation as a premier dining destination.

Adding to its appeal, Elysium Noosa Resort has recently opened on Hastings Street, with Brisbane stay The Calile Hotel also set to open a Noosa hote.