The European Best Destination 2026 ranking, influenced by Greek island culture, was released, with Madrid taking the top spot, confirming the dynamism and appeal of Greek islands in the tourism arena.
Madrid topped the ranking, which has been published since 2009, with 1,330,682 votes from travelers from 154 countries, confirming its “leading” position in the European tourism industry.
“Madrid stands out as the capital where heritage and modernity coexist harmoniously: world-class museums, vibrant neighborhoods, green spaces, daring architecture, a thriving gastronomic scene, and an undeniable love for life that resonates deeply with today’s travelers,” said European Best Destinations.
After an initial assessment that took into account factors such as tourism growth and demand as reflected in searches, travelers chose from a long list of 42 destinations the top 20 they want to visit in 2026.
Madrid is replacing Monaco, which was the European Best Destination 2025, and is the second Spanish city to top the ranking after Marbella, which received the same distinction in 2024.
At the same time, Greece has a strong presence, with two islands ranking in the list. Two islands with a unique character, so different from each other, that they fall into the category of islands that appeal to a more “discerning” traveler. Koufonisi, the Greek paradise, with its exotic beauty, in 13th place, and Kythira with the picturesque Avlomonas, one of the most charming fishing villages in the entire Mediterranean, in 16th place.
For Ano Koufonisi, the article notes that it is “one of Europe’s most charming island retreats for 2026.”
“White alleys, bold blue doors, bougainvillea, and crystal-clear waters create a timeless and effortlessly elegant scene. Everything here is simple in the best way: beaches connected by coastal paths, natural pools carved by the sea, and boat trips to nearby Kato Koufonisi for complete relaxation. The village offers small cafes, boutiques with handmade products, jewelry workshops, and tavernas serving fresh fish and Greek appetizers,” he says. He emphasizes that the days pass between dives in the sea, sand, sun, and quiet evenings on verandas with a view of the horizon.
The publication describes Avlemonas as “one of Europe’s most attractive small destinations for 2026 – a tranquil seaside village shaped by sunlight, turquoise bays, and an atmosphere that seems to have been crafted specifically for a relaxed life.”
“Charming white houses surround a natural bay where you can swim in pools carved into the rock, crystal clear like glass, in the morning. …The village moves at a gentle, effortless pace that immediately puts you back into your normal rhythm,” he notes. He claims that Avlémonas is Greece in its most authentic, gentle, and deeply relaxing form.
Nicosia in second place – Italian dominance
Just last month, Nicosia was named the European Capital of Culture for 2026 by European Best Destinations, so it’s no surprise that the Cypriot capital took second place in the overall ranking of top European destinations.
However, Italy dominated the overall list, with seven destinations among the top 20. Verona, the city of love, came in fourth, followed by the colorful island of Burano in eighth place and Cefalù, Sicily, in 15th place. Meanwhile, four more Italian destinations round out the Top 20: Bosa in Sardinia, Ravello on the Amalfi Coast, the island of Procida off Naples, and Taormina, the setting for the second season of The White Lotus.
Countries with a strong presence on the list include Spain, with Almeria and Begur ranking 10th and 14th, respectively, and Portugal, with Câmara de Lobos in Madeira ranking 6th, Lisbon ranking 9th, and Costa Vicentina ranking 12th.
Paris is also ranked fifth, and Alacati in Turkey is seventh.
The 20 European Best Destination 2026
Madrid, Spain
Nicosia, Cyprus
Štajerska, Slovenia
Verona, Italy
Paris, France
Câmara de Lobos, Madeira, Portugal
Alaçatı, Turkey
Murano, Italy
Lisbon, Portugal
Almería, Andalusia
Stavanger, Norway
Costa Vicentina, Portugal
Ano Koufonisi, Greece
Begur, Spain
Cefalù, Sicily
Avlémonas, Kythira, Greece
Bosa, Sardinia, Italy
Ravello, Italy
Procida Island, Italy
Taormina, Sicily, Italy
