Study reveals the 10 most livable cities in the world

What's it take to be dubbed a "livable" city? Good public transportation? Cool bars? A lack of ebola?

According to the Global Livable Cities Index, the answer appears to be stunning Alpine views and access to awesome skiing. Or, at least, to tasty chocolate and accurate clocks.

Yea, Geneva and Zurich are the top two places in the world to live; or so says the recently released study that assessed 64 countries by their economic worth and peaceable environment (factoring in climate and location) in order to find the cities with the best living standards.

How does the rest of the top 10 shake out? Take a look...

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10. Auckland, New Zealand

Why life is better there: While Auckland offers the bustle of most major cities, locals here tend to be a little more chill. It's also a top surfing destination, near popular surf spots like Piha Beach and Maori Bay.

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9. Hong Kong, China

Why life is better there: Hong Kong's soaring skyscrapers (and economy), amazing food, and a ton of museums make this Chinese region a top spot for culture.

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8. Berlin, Germany

Why life is better there: This immaculate city's basically free of litter and its U-Bahn transit system  makes hopping between the city's many bars so easy. Berlin's also one of the world's most affordable places for young people, according to this kinda ridiculous study.
 

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7. Stockholm, Sweden

Why life is better there: With plenty of museums and boutiques, Stockholm's residents are effortlessly stylish and hip (although it's possible we read that in an IKEA catalogue). That said, the Swedish capital is a happening party city, with swanky clubs like the multi-level Sturecompagniet.

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6. Luxembourg City

Why life is better there: While the castle-strewn land of Luxembourg looks like something straight out of a fairytale, the country/city is more than just a pretty face; it's also one of the richest places in the world, and an ideal spot to conduct business. Oh yea, and Belgian beer is oh-so-close.

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5. Helsinki, Finland

Why life is better there: Life's more relaxed in Helsinki (bumper sticker?), but the quaint oceanside city's still got a vibrant culture scene and busy nightlife, with plenty of live music, cocktail lounges, and bars. Also, saunas.

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4. Copenhagen, Denmark

Why life is better there: The Danish capital's super-efficient metro system and cleanliness, of course. And because bicycles outnumber cars, the air's cleaner, too.

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3. Singapore

Why life is better there: Tasty street food, and gorgeous jungles in which to escape the city's hustle and bustle. Oh, and Singapore (the country) was named Lonely Planet's best country to visit next year, when it'll be celebrating 50 years of independence.

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2. Zurich, Switzerland

Why life is better there: Switzerland's second city may be a financial frontrunner, but it's also a European party capital. Zurich's Street Parade is the biggest street party on the continent.

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1. Geneva, Switzerland

Why life is better there: With a world-class economy, luxe spas, and clean Alpine air, Genevans have got the work/life balance down. Oh, and they get 20 paid vacation days a year to hit the nearby slopes.


Chloe Pantazi is an editorial assistant on Thrillist's travel team. Yes, that's a British accent. No, she doesn't watch Doctor Who. Follow her on Twitter at @ChloePantazi.