Ios claims the top spot in the list of the 10 best European summer destinations for 2025, according to the specialized German travel blog Zauberhaft Reisen. Titled “The Top Ten Summer Destinations for 2025: Where the Sea Still Holds Its Magic,” the annual list features ten unique European regions with the most beautiful beaches—and Ios is the star.

One of Germany’s most popular blogs for thematic travel and adventure tourism describes Ios as “a place that connects different types of travelers and generations thanks to its two distinct faces: thrilling parties at night and a serene, blissful pace during the day, with exotic beaches, sports activities, historical landmarks like Homer’s Tomb, arts, and exceptional gastronomy.” The blog adds, “The new Gaïtis-Simosis Museum above Chora is a must for anyone who loves the Cyclades and Greece. Without a doubt, Ios appeals to young people of all ages.”

The Zauberhaft Reisen list continues with Italy’s Salento Peninsula, Portugal’s Alentejo region, Arbatax and the white sand dunes of Sardinia, the town of Biarritz in France, Cyprus, the Italian Riviera near Ancona, Sweden’s High Coast, and Denmark’s North Sea coast.

According to passenger booking data from the ferry platform Ferryhopper, Ios was also among the top 10 most popular Greek islands for international tourists in 2024.

“The diversity and contrasts that characterize the travel experience on Ios are what make our island so special across all age groups,” said Antonis Mettos, President of the Tourism Committee of the Municipality of Ios. “This is exactly the narrative that’s being embraced internationally through our targeted efforts. Ios may be one of the rare destinations with repeat visitors who keep coming back for decades, discovering new sides of the island each time.”

The latest recognition follows a scheduled meeting at the international tourism fair in Berlin and a subsequent press trip, part of the municipality’s long-standing collaboration with tourism marketing professionals.