The Aussie town crowned one of the world's most welcoming places

Australians pride themselves on being an easy-going bunch. But there are some places where the locals just welcome you with open arms.

If you love travelling regional Australia, you’re probably already familiar with our list of Australia’s top towns but have you ever wondered which towns lay claim to being the most welcoming?

Well, look no further because Booking.com has released the 10 most welcoming destinations on Earth for 2024. And only one Australian destination has made the list.

And the winner is…

In the foothills of Victoria’s Great Dividing Range, Daylesford was named the fourth most welcoming place in the world! Taking its rightful crown, Daylesford is known for its indulgent natural mineral springs and spas. Still, there are so many incredible ways to while away the days during a visit to this welcoming destination.

Daylesford was named the fourth most welcoming place in the world!

With picture-perfect wineries to acquaint yourself with, stunning waterfalls to discover, and serene lakes and lush forests to get lost in, Daylesford is the ultimate place to rest and relax. Not only that, you’ll find cosy cafes, an abundance of exquisite restaurants and the dreamiest accommodation options to complete your stay.

Daylesford is the ultimate place to rest and relax.

Who else made the list?

In the global list, Arraial d’Ajuda in Brazil, Ermoupoli in Greece and Viana do Castelo in Portugal took out the top three ahead of Daylesford. Grindelwald in Switzerland, Moab in the United States and Uzès in France placed fifth to seventh, and Mazatlán in Mexico, Jaisalmer in India and Fujikawaguchiko in Japan rounded out the top 10.

Arraial d’Ajuda in Brazil was voted the most welcoming place on Earth. (Image: J Balla Photography)

Australia’s most welcoming places

Booking.com also revealed the most welcoming places in Australia. Spread across the country, you’re sure to receive a warm welcome no matter where you travel next.

 2. Montville, Queensland

The cute-as-a-button town of Montville is considered by many to be the creative heart of the Sunshine Coast. More a village than a town thanks to its tiny population, Montville is teeming with charming boutiques, studios and art galleries boasting work by both up-and-coming and established local artists.

The cute-as-a-button town of Montville made the list of most welcoming places.

3. Maleny, Qld

Right next door to Montville, just 90 minutes north of Brisbane, Maleny is a lush and tropical town with a calming and relaxed vibe. Start the day bright and early with a walk along the Maleny Trail for the chance to catch a glimpse of the shy platypus swimming in waterways at sunrise.

Maleny is a lush and tropical town with a calming and relaxed vibe. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

4. Hepburn Springs, Vic

Located along the Great Victorian Bathing Trail (and next to Daylesford) you’ll find Hepburn Springs. With Australia’s largest concentration of mineral springs, which are full of health-giving minerals, Hepburn Springs is a retreat for the mind and body.

Hepburn Springs is a retreat for the mind and body.

5. Ocean Grove, Vic

This popular surf town near Geelong is located on the Bellarine Peninsula and is surrounded by wineries, beaches and golf courses. Whether you hit the ocean waves, stay on land with the kids or use the town as a base to explore countless attractions across the region, Ocean Grove is the ideal holiday spot.

Ocean Grove locals will welcome you with open arms to this popular surf town.

6. Healesville, Vic

Another Victorian gem, Healesville is right in the heart of the Yarra Valley. With renowned restaurants and a well-established wine scene right on its doorstep, Healesville and its locals have a lot to be happy about.

Healesville and its locals have a lot to be happy about.

7. Mount Tamborine, Qld

Found in the Gold Coast Hinterland, Mount Tamborine is a must-experience if you’re keen to ditch the surf and head for the hills in the quest for something new. A 40- to 50-minute drive from The Goldie, Mount Tamborine is a place to recharge and reconnect.

Ditch the surf and head to Mount Tamborine. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

8. Margaret River, Western Australia

Just under a three-hour drive from Perth, Margaret River is a triple threat of fine dining, world-renowned wine country and enviable surf breaks, all while still retaining its country town charm.

Margaret River is a triple threat. (Image: Tourism Australia)

9. Armidale, NSW

The ‘Cathedral City’ of Armidale is one of the main towns in New England and the hub of New England High Country. A historic university town, Armidale is full of charm, artistic flair and gorgeous landscapes.

Armidale is full of charm. (Image: Destination NSW)

10. Mudgee, NSW

Mudgee ticks all the boxes for a weekend away. History, natural beauty, world-class wineries and one of the best culinary scenes in the country. Also with luxury accommodation options, romantic local B&Bs and glamping retreats, you’re spoilt for choice on where to lay your head.

Mudgee ticks all the boxes for a weekend away. (Image: Destination NSW)