In 2025, achieving a healthy work-life balance is a priority for professionals across Europe, with countries offering shorter workweeks, generous leave policies, and supportive work cultures standing out. Based on metrics from sources like the OECD Better Life Index and InterNations Expat Insider, which evaluate working hours, vacation days, and employee well-being, the top 10 European countries for work-life balance in 2025 provide environments where career and personal life thrive. Led by Germany, these nations prioritize flexibility, mental health, and leisure, making them ideal for workers and expats in 2025.
1. Germany
Germany leads Europe for work-life balance in 2025, with an average workweek of 34.2 hours, among the shortest globally, according to the OECD. Cities like Berlin and Munich offer robust labor laws, including 24–30 paid vacation days annually and a median income of $62,000. In 2025, Germany’s “Right to Disconnect” policy ensures employees are not contacted after hours, enhancing well-being. With 81% of workers reporting high job satisfaction and strong mental health support, Germany’s efficient infrastructure and vibrant cultural scene make it a top choice in 2025.
2. Denmark
Denmark ranks second in 2025, renowned for its “flexicurity” labor model, blending job flexibility with security. Copenhagen workers average 34 hours weekly, with 25 paid vacation days and five weeks of parental leave per parent. In 2025, Denmark’s median income of $70,000 and low unemployment (3.3%) support financial stability. The country’s bike-friendly cities and emphasis on hygge (coziness) foster leisure, with 85% of employees satisfied with their work-life balance. Denmark’s progressive policies and green spaces make it a haven for balance in 2025.
3. Norway
Norway, third in 2025, offers a 34-hour workweek and 25 paid vacation days, ensuring ample time for personal pursuits. Oslo’s high median income ($70,000) and low poverty rate (7.5%) create a stable environment. In 2025, Norway’s generous parental leave (49 weeks at full pay) and remote work options enhance flexibility. With 80% of workers reporting high life satisfaction, Norway’s stunning fjords and outdoor culture encourage leisure. The country’s focus on mental health and low workplace stress makes it a top destination in 2025.
4. Netherlands
The Netherlands ranks fourth in 2025, with a 33.6-hour workweek, the shortest in Europe, per OECD data. Amsterdam and Utrecht offer 28 paid vacation days and a median income of $62,000. In 2025, the Dutch “Work from Home Act” supports flexible schedules, with 75% of employees working remotely part-time. The country’s bike-centric culture and vibrant social scene enhance leisure, with 83% of workers satisfied with their balance. The Netherlands’ progressive labor laws and family-friendly policies make it a leader in 2025.
5. Sweden
Sweden, fifth in 2025, promotes work-life balance with a 35-hour workweek and 25 paid vacation days. Stockholm and Gothenburg provide a median income of $65,000 and 480 days of shared parental leave. In 2025, Sweden’s focus on fika (coffee breaks) and flexible hours fosters well-being, with 82% of employees reporting low workplace stress. The country’s universal healthcare and green spaces, like Djurgården, encourage leisure. Sweden’s egalitarian culture and strong labor unions make it a top choice for balance in 2025.
6. Austria
Austria ranks sixth in 2025, with a 35-hour workweek and 25 paid vacation days. Vienna, ranked among the world’s most livable cities, offers a median income of $61,582 and a low unemployment rate (4.2%). In 2025, Austria’s flexible work policies and 13–14 public holidays support leisure. With 79% of workers satisfied with their balance, Austria’s Alpine trails and cultural attractions, like the Vienna State Opera, enhance personal time. The country’s robust welfare system ensures a high quality of life in 2025.
7. Iceland
Iceland, seventh in 2025, offers a 35.5-hour workweek and 24 paid vacation days, with Reykjavik’s median income at $65,000. The country’s four-day workweek trials, ongoing in 2025, show 86% of workers preferring shorter weeks. Iceland’s low crime rate (0.3 per 100,000) and stunning landscapes, like the Blue Lagoon, promote relaxation. In 2025, generous parental leave (six months per parent) and mental health initiatives enhance well-being, making Iceland a unique destination for work-life balance.
8. Luxembourg
Luxembourg ranks eighth in 2025, with a 35-hour workweek and 26 paid vacation days. The country’s high median income ($80,000) and low unemployment (4.5%) ensure financial security. In 2025, Luxembourg City’s multilingual workforce and flexible remote work policies benefit expats, with 78% satisfied with their balance. The country’s efficient public transport and cultural attractions, like the Bock Casemates, support leisure. Luxembourg’s strong economy and employee protections make it a top choice in 2025.
9. Finland
Finland, ninth in 2025, offers a 36-hour workweek and 25 paid vacation days. Helsinki’s median income of $60,000 and low poverty rate (6.8%) foster stability. In 2025, Finland’s remote work policies and universal healthcare reduce stress, with 80% of workers reporting high life satisfaction. The country’s sauna culture and access to nature, like Nuuksio National Park, encourage relaxation. Finland’s focus on education and workplace equality makes it a strong contender for work-life balance in 2025.
10. Türkiye
Türkiye, tenth in 2025, is a surprising entry, with Istanbul and Ankara offering a 36.5-hour workweek and 14 paid vacation days. The country’s median income ($12,000) is lower, but its low cost of living ($500/month for apartments) attracts expats. In 2025, Türkiye’s flexible work culture and vibrant social scene, with 75% of workers satisfied, enhance balance. Cultural attractions like Hagia Sophia and affordable healthcare make Türkiye an emerging hub for work-life balance in 2025.
Conclusion
In 2025, Germany, Denmark, Norway, Netherlands, Sweden, Austria, Iceland, Luxembourg, Finland, and Türkiye lead Europe in work-life balance, offering short workweeks (33.6–36.5 hours), generous vacation days (14–30), and high employee satisfaction (75%–86%). These countries combine progressive labor policies, high median incomes ($12,000–$80,000), and cultural richness to create environments where work and leisure thrive. From Germany’s “Right to Disconnect” to Türkiye’s affordability, they set the standard for balanced living in 2025.
