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Europe’s islands have scored an unexpected triumph in the latest “World’s Best Islands” ranking by Travel + Leisure. While tropical destinations continue to dominate the top spots, the 2026 list shows that travellers don’t need to cross the globe to find paradise: seven European islands earned places among the world’s 25 best.
The magazine surveyed more than 207,000 readers, who cast 661,000 votes across categories including hotels, cities, cruise lines and islands. Their verdict: Europe’s coastlines and island cultures are more alluring than ever.
Tropical Icons Lead the Pack
The top three islands remain firmly in the tropics:
- Koh Samui (Thailand) claims the No. 1 spot, praised for its palm-fringed beaches, jungle waterfalls, temples and luxury resorts. Wellness retreats and vibrant cultural experiences round out its appeal.
- The Maldives follow in second place, celebrated for turquoise lagoons, white sand and world‑class diving.
- Ecuador’s Galápagos Islands take third, thanks to their extraordinary wildlife and volcanic landscapes.
Bali ranks fourth, continuing its long-standing popularity with travellers seeking a mix of temples, rice terraces, surf beaches and volcanic scenery.
🇪🇺 Europe’s Surprise Surge
Europe’s first entry appears at No. 12: Sardinia, the Mediterranean gem known for its clear waters, white beaches and rugged interior. It also becomes Europe’s top island in the 2026 ranking.
The region’s strong showing continues:
- 13 – Skye and the Hebrides (Scotland) Dramatic cliffs, moody landscapes and iconic sites like the Old Man of Storr and Fairy Pools make this archipelago a favourite for hikers and photographers.
- 14 – Malta Crystal waters, ancient fortresses and spectacular coastlines secure Malta’s place among the world’s best.
- 16 – Madeira (Portugal) Known for its volcanic peaks, lush forests and year‑round mild climate, Madeira remains a magnet for nature lovers.
- 17 – The Azores (Portugal) With crater lakes, hot springs and unique flora, the mid‑Atlantic archipelago stands out for its raw, untamed beauty.
- 19 – Sicily (Italy) A blend of beaches, ancient ruins, vibrant cities and Mount Etna’s volcanic drama earns Sicily a top‑20 finish.
- 20 – Milos (Greece) Famous for its colourful rock formations, hidden coves and striking white cliffs, Milos completes Europe’s strong showing.
A Global List with Local Appeal
The results highlight a clear trend: travellers increasingly value diversity, from tropical luxury to rugged northern landscapes and Mediterranean culture. Europe’s islands, with their mix of history, nature and accessibility, are rising in global appeal.
For travellers in Europe, the ranking offers a welcome reminder: world‑class island escapes are closer than they think.
- source: heute.at/picture: pixabay.com
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