Every year, millions of travelers from around the world help shape the list of Europe’s best destinations, and 2026 is no exception. This year, European Best Destinations published the top 20 places in Europe, including two Greek gems.
Travel experts at European Best Destinations evaluated over 500 destinations across Europe, analyzing key indicators such as tourism growth data from Eurostat, rising online searches, social media popularity, and each destination’s commitment to sustainability, accessibility, and local development.
From there, 20 destinations were shortlisted in collaboration with travel media, and the final ranking was determined by votes from 1,330,682 registered travelers. Each participant could vote for up to three destinations.
Greek Islands Shine in the 2026 Rankings
Two Greek destinations made the top 20: Ano Koufonisi, described as “the purest summer dream of the Aegean,” ranking 13th, and Avlemonas on Kythera, where “peace becomes a way of life,” ranking 16th.
Ano Koufonisi – A Timeless Aegean Escape
Ano Koufonisi stands out as one of Europe’s most charming island destinations for 2026. Whitewashed streets, vibrant blue doors, bougainvillea, and crystal-clear waters create a timeless, effortlessly elegant scene. The island features beaches linked by coastal paths, natural rock pools, and boat trips to nearby Kato Koufonisi for complete relaxation. The main village offers cozy cafés, boutiques with handmade products, jewelry workshops, and tavernas serving fresh fish and Greek meze under warm nights. Life here moves at a leisurely pace, with days spent swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying quiet evenings overlooking the horizon.
Avlemonas – Tranquil Coastal Village on Kythera
Avlemonas offers a serene seaside retreat shaped by sunlight, turquoise bays, and a relaxed atmosphere. Charming white houses surround a natural bay where visitors can swim in rock-carved pools. Terraces overlook the sea as children jump from stone ledges, and the village moves at a gentle, effortless pace. Local cuisine delights with fresh fish, regional cheeses, honey, citrus, and simple island dishes served in shaded terraces. Small boutique guesthouses and family-run accommodations keep Avlemonas intimate, while nearby beaches showcase Kythera’s most stunning landscapes. Days here blend swimming, coastal walks, artisan shopping, wine at sunset, and scenic drives through quiet villages – representing Greece in its most authentic and deeply relaxing form.
Top 20 European Destinations for 2026:
- Madrid, Spain
- Nicosia, Cyprus
- Styria Region, Slovenia
- Verona, Italy
- Paris, France
- Camara de Lobos, Madeira-Portugal
- Alacati, Turkey
- Burano, Italy
- Lisbon, Portugal
- Almería, Andalusia-Spain
- Stavanger, Norway
- Costa Vicentina, Portugal
- Ano Koufonisi, Greece
- Begur, Spain
- Cefalù, Sicily-Italy
- Avlemonas, Kythera-Greece
- Boza, Sardinia
- Ravello, Italy
- Procida, Italy
- Taormina, Sicily-Italy
Both Ano Koufonisi and Avlemonas highlight Greece’s unique mix of island charm, seaside tranquility, and authentic local experiences, making them must-visit destinations for 2026.
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