It is a nice feeling to know you live in one of the world’s best cities. Lisbon has ranked third in Monocle magazine’s annual list of the world’s most liveable cities. Only Copenhagen and Tokyo (which took first place) finished ahead.

The authors of the ranking do not ignore Lisbon’s biggest challenge: the cost of housing. However, the list is not based solely on the economy or the cost of living. Much greater weight is given to factors such as safety, public transport, architecture, culture, green spaces, local shops, traditional markets, restaurants, and, above all, how enjoyable everyday life is in the city.

Monocle also highlights Lisbon’s significant investment in public transport, improvements to urban mobility, efforts to preserve family-run shops and traditional markets, and its vibrant cultural scene.

Do you agree with the ranking? Personally, I have never really compared Lisbon with Tokyo. And it is interesting that neither Berlin, London, nor Geneva made it into the top three.