Isn't it a treat to go to a place where the people are happy? Europe is packed with awe-inspiring tourist spots but travelers seeking the quality of life and overall contentment of the citizens can look to the European Union's new survey ranking the happiest cities in the region.

According to a report from Condé Nast Traveler, the EU surveyed over 40,000 people from their 28 member states that includes 79 cities and 4 additional greater cities (Greater Paris, Greater Lisbon, Greater Athens and Greater Manchester).

The EU report revealed that Oslo in Norway and Zurich in Switzerland both topped the list with 99 percent of the respondents saying that they are satisfied living in their respective cities. Other notable cities that had a 98 percent satisfaction rating from their citizens were Aalborg in Denmark, Vilnius in Lithuania and Belfast in Northern Ireland.

All but six cities recorded at least 80 percent of the respondents being satisfied. These sub-80 percent cities are Istanbul in Turkey with 65 percent, Palermo in Italy and Athina in Greece both with 67 percent, Greater Athens in Greece with 71 percent, Napoli in Italy with 75 percent and Miskolc in Hungary with 79 percent. According to the report from Condé Nast Traveler, the political strife and refugee crisis might have played a part in the low numbers, especially for Istanbul and Athens.

In a foreword of the report, European Commissioner for Regional Policy Corina Cretu described the study as offering "a unique focus on quality of life." From services like education and athletics to public transport and migration, the survey asked its respondents to sound off on the various issues of their own cities.

The European official also noted the development in public transport that became instrumental in the positive feedback on cities like Budapest and Cracow, as well as improvement in health care services in Braga, Iraklion and Piatra Neamt. On the other hand, there are also a number of nagging issues throughout Europe including the limited options for affordable housing and employment opportunities.

 "Amongst a list of issues respondents consider that 'health services' followed by 'unemployment' and 'education and training' are the three most important issues for their city," she continued. "Hence, this survey shows some of the areas which deserve particular attention."

Cretu added, "I hope the findings will inspire all actors and stakeholder involved in urban development to implement a holistic approach to social, economic, cultural and environmental challenges. In this respect, the European Union provides support to urban areas to address some of the identified issues."