Condé Nast Names 8 Greek Islands Among Europe’s Best
- by XpatAthens
- Wednesday, 17 June 2026
There is a noticeable shift happening in the Mediterranean. While global travel icons like Santorini and Mykonos have long defined the quintessential Greek holiday, international travelers are turning their gaze toward understated authenticity. This evolving preference was made clear in the newly released Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards, where Greece claimed nearly half of the spots on the list of Europe’s top 20 islands.
Securing the coveted number-one spot was Naxos, which earned an impressive score of 95.71. By outranking heavyweights like Ibiza, Capri, and Mallorca, the largest of the Cyclades has officially moved to the center of the European travel stage.
The Rise of the Authentic Aegean
Naxos’ triumph speaks directly to what modern travelers are searching for: space, heritage, and genuine local culture. Renowned for its sweeping sandy coastlines, ancient landmarks like the iconic Portara marble gateway, and a thriving agricultural tradition that fuels its famous culinary scene, the island offers a rich, unhurried alternative to its high-octane neighbors.
But the accolades didn't stop with Naxos. Greece dominated the rankings with eight islands making the final cut, proving that the country’s appeal lies in its immense diversity:
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Crete & Corfu: Landing comfortably in the top 10, Crete (91.42) was celebrated for its vast landscapes, distinct food culture, and minoan history, while Corfu (90.95) charmed voters with its elegant Venetian architecture and green Ionian vistas.
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Rhodes & Skiathos: Rhodes followed closely behind, buoyed by the timeless draw of its medieval Old Town, while the pine-fringed beaches of Skiathos secured a strong twelfth-place finish.
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The Classics & The Hidden Gems: While cosmopolitan Mykonos and dramatic Santorini held their ground in the top 20, it was the inclusion of rugged, quiet Folegandros (ranking 17th) that underscored a growing desire for peaceful, slow-paced escapes.
Ultimately, these rankings reveal a deeper narrative for Greek tourism. Whether travelers are seeking vibrant nightlife, historical depth, or a quiet corner of the Aegean to simply breathe, Greece continues to deliver, not just through its famous landmarks, but through the enduring magic of its lesser-known shores.