Whether you’re a willing workaholic or somebody who likes protecting their peace, we all need a healthy work-life balance – it’s good for our wellbeing, after all.
New Zealand was just named as the best country in the world for work-life balance, according to Remote’s third annual Global Work-Life Balance Index, but plenty of countries in Europe ranked well, too.
The Index assesses the top 60 GDP countries on statutory annual leave, paid maternity leave, sick leave, healthcare, public safety, public happiness, LGBTQ+ inclusivity and average working hours, and gave each one a score out of 100.
Recommended: The European island nation named the world’s safest country to travel to in 2025.
Topping the list for the continent? That would be Ireland, which scored 81.17 overall. The country did particularly well thanks to a generous maternity leave policy (26 weeks off with 70 percent of income pay). The study also notes a little about working culture in Ireland, where apparently hard work is fostered alongside a community-spirited vibe among employees.
Belgium came in second place with 75.91 overall, scoring well in the statutory sick pay and maternity leave categories, as well as having one of the highest happiness ratings in Europe at 6.91 out of 10. Belgians also work short weeks, at around 34.1 hours, and it has one of the continent’s highest minimum wages.
Germany, Norway and Denmark round out the top five in Europe, scoring 74.65, 74.20 and 73.76 respectively. Read on for the top 10.
These are the 10 best European countries for work-life balance
- Ireland
- Belgium
- Germany
- Norway
- Denmark
- Spain
- Finland
- UK
- Netherlands
- Portugal
Did you see that the seven wonders of the world have been ranked from best to worst?
Plus: This Scandinavian capital was named the world’s most liveable city right now.
Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out Travel newsletter for all the latest travel news and best stuff happening across the world.