As the holiday season approaches, many of us are searching for ways to naturally lift our mood. For this, science has a simple answer: sunlight. So, if you are planning a sun-focused trip, i.e., sun tourism, this holiday season. There are certain destinations that deliver sunshine in abundance. These destinations may help uplift your mood by enhancing your happy hormones.
According to BookRetreats.com’s Holiday Happiness Index, analyzed by Dr. Natalie Dattilo-Ryan, PhD, clinical psychologist and instructor at Harvard Medical School, sunshine plays a major role in creating happier holidays. The index examined 47 global destinations using five science-backed happiness factors, including sunlight exposure, quality of sleep, a healthy diet, time spent in nature, and physical exercise.
Together, these factors are known to support the release of the body’s “happy hormones,” including serotonin and dopamine.
According to the study, “Natural light stimulates serotonin production, which helps regulate mood, improve sleep patterns, and promote feelings of calm. It also supports vitamin D synthesis, which is important for both physical and mental health.”
Research from the Center for Brain Health at the University of Texas at Dallas highlights that exposure to sunlight is one of the most effective natural ways to boost serotonin levels. Sunlight increases the brain’s release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps you feel calm, focused, and emotionally balanced. Low exposure to sunlight has been linked to higher risks of depression and seasonal affective disorder.
This makes visiting sun-rich destinations more than just a leisure choice. It can also serve as a natural way to boost your mental wellbeing.
While sun exposure can be enjoyable and mood-enhancing, it also carries health risks, including skin damage and skin cancer. A 2020 study titled Always the Sun: The Uniqueness of Sun Exposure in Tourism identified three common patterns of sun exposure behavior:
People rarely use sun protection because short exposure is not perceived as harmful.
Sun exposure is seen as risky, so protection is more commonly used.
Tourists often engage in intensive sunbathing for tanning, frequently without adequate sun protection.
The study emphasizes that public health authorities, tourism marketers, and travel destinations should actively promote responsible sun exposure to reduce sun-related health risks.
If you are ready to swap grey skies for golden rays, here are the 10 sunniest cities in the world, ranked by annual sunshine hours. These destinations can serve as your guide to vitamin D-rich and mood-boosting travel in 2026.
1. Dubai, UAE: 3,577 hours
Dubai tops the list as the ultimate sun capital. With futuristic skyscrapers and golden desert dunes, the city enjoys nearly ten hours of sunshine every day. It is ideal for year-round activities such as beach lounging, poolside relaxation, and desert safaris. Whether you are watching sunsets over the dunes or cruising past city lights on a yacht, the sun is almost always present.
2. Cairo, Egypt: 3,477 hours
Cairo is bathed in the warm glow of the Sahara and abundant sunshine. From exploring the Great Pyramids to cruising along the Nile, the city’s intense sunlight enhances its rich history and timeless atmosphere. Sunlight itself seems to add depth to every monument and street.
3. Doha, Qatar: 3,418 hours
This coastal city combines luxury, modern architecture, and endless blue skies. Doha’s waterfront promenades, cultural landmarks, and golden sunlight create a visually striking experience. Even a simple walk along the Corniche feels postcard-worthy.
4. Los Angeles, USA: 3,257 hours
Known as the city of endless summer, Los Angeles enjoys a Mediterranean climate that keeps it bright and beach-ready year-round. From Santa Monica to the Hollywood Hills, the city’s sunlight adds a cinematic quality to everyday life.
5. Orlando, Florida, USA: 2,930 hours
Florida’s reputation as the Sunshine State is well earned. Orlando pairs abundant sunshine with world-famous theme parks and outdoor attractions. Even beyond the rides, the city’s gardens, walkways, and lakes glow under consistent sunlight.
6. Lisbon, Portugal: 2,828 hours
Europe’s sunniest capital is known for its distinctive white light, reflected off limestone streets and tiled buildings. With Atlantic breezes, clear skies, and glowing sunsets, Lisbon feels effortlessly radiant at any hour of the day.
7. Delhi, India: 2,796 hours
Delhi’s bright and intense sunlight highlights the city’s contrasts. Dry winters provide ideal conditions for exploring forts, markets, and historic neighborhoods. The sunlight amplifies the city’s energy, making every visit feel vivid and dynamic in India’s capital.
8. Athens, Greece: 2,773 hours
Athens enjoys long stretches of sunshine from spring through late autumn. Ancient temples, open plazas, and historic streets are bathed in natural light, giving visitors the sense of walking through living history.
9. Santiago, Chile: 2,750 hours
Set against the Andes, Santiago benefits from crisp, high-altitude sunshine. Long, dry summers make it ideal for vineyard tours, mountain hikes, and scenic city views. The clarity of the light adds freshness to every outdoor experience.
10. Madrid, Spain: 2,712 hours
Madrid’s high-altitude sunshine brightens its plazas, parks, and lively streets. The city’s consistent daylight encourages long walks and extended evenings outdoors. The city can be opted for a relaxing walk under the calming sun while visiting monuments and museums in Spain’s capital.
Sunlight is not just about pleasant weather. It supports mood, energy levels, and overall wellbeing. Cities with high sunshine hours naturally encourage outdoor activity, social connection, and relaxation, all of which contribute to happier travel experiences.
References:
1. Franco, Maayan, Amir Shani, and Yaniv Poria. “Always the Sun: The Uniqueness of Sun Exposure in Tourism.” Tourism Review International 25 (2020). https://doi.org/10.3727/154427220X16064144339165.
2. The BrainHealth Project. “Brighten Your Mood With Sunlight.” Know Brainers: Brain-Healthy Tips. Center for BrainHealth.
3. Westman, Chelsea. “Holiday Happiness Index: World’s Best Destinations to Boost Your ‘Feel-Good’ Hormones.” Wellness, updated September 30, 2025.