Greek Triumph at CN Traveller Awards: Naxos Named Best Island in Europe

Greece continues to cement its status as a world-class travel destination, with an extraordinary showing at the 2025 Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards. In a standout achievement, Naxos was voted the Best Island in Europe, leading a strong Greek presence across nearly every major category — from island escapes and historic cities to luxury resorts and wellness retreats.

The awards, now in their 28th year, are exclusively determined by thousands of readers in the UK, honouring destinations that offer authentic experiences, impeccable service, and unforgettable memories.

Naxos Reigns Supreme as Europe’s Top Island

At the top of the list, Naxos emerged as the Best Island in Europe, praised by voters for its pristine beaches, vibrant local culture, charming villages, and authentic Cycladic atmosphere. The island’s unique ability to combine natural beauty with rich history and culinary excellence continues to win over international visitors year after year.

“Naxos offers everything from hiking and history to gastronomy and luxury, without losing its soul,” one CN Traveller reader noted.

Other Greek islands that earned high rankings include:

• Crete – 8th place
• Corfu – 10th place
• Rhodes – 11th place
• Skiathos – 12th place
• Mykonos – 14th place
• Folegandros – 17th place
• Santorini – 18th place

This broad representation reflects Greece’s unmatched diversity of island experiences, from cosmopolitan escapes to quiet, off-the-beaten-path gems.

Greece Among Europe’s Friendliest Countries

Adding to the celebration, Greece ranked 6th on the list of Europe’s Friendliest Countries, a testament to the legendary Greek hospitality (philoxenia) that continues to resonate with travelers worldwide.

From local taverna owners to hotel staff and ferry captains, Greece’s people are often cited as the heart of the visitor experience.

Athens: A Top European City

Athens secured the 12th spot among Europe’s Best Cities, continuing its transformation into a modern European capital that blends antiquity with contemporary energy.

Visitors praised the city’s dynamic food scene, expanding pedestrian zones, art galleries, and the seamless juxtaposition of ancient ruins with cutting-edge design.

Greek Hotels Shine in Luxury Rankings

A total of 21 Greek hotels and resorts were honoured, with ten properties landing in Europe’s Top 10 Hotels — a remarkable feat. These included legendary establishments in Athens, Santorini, Crete, and Antiparos:

 Top Greek Hotels

• Hotel Grande Bretagne, Athens – 99.83
• Perivolas Lifestyle Houses, Santorini – 99.67
• The Rooster, Antiparos – 99.64
• Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino – 99.53
• Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel, Athens – 99.47
• Canaves Epitome, Santorini – 99.15
• Iconic Santorini – 98.97
• Grecotel Pallas Athena, Athens – 98.26
• The Dolli, Athens – 97.88
• Acro Suites, Crete – 97.75

This array of properties reflects the evolution of Greek hospitality into the global luxury market, offering not just accommodation, but immersive, curated experiences.

Porto Zante Villas & Spa Tops Europe’s Resorts

In the Best Resorts in Europe category, Porto Zante Villas & Spa in Zakynthos was named No. 1, with a stellar score of 99.71. Renowned for its ultra-private beachfront villas, spa services, and Michelin-level dining, Porto Zante has become synonymous with discreet opulence.

Other top-rated resorts included:

• Sani Resort (Kassandra)
• Ikos Dassia & Ikos Odisia (Corfu)
• One&Only Aesthesis (Athens Riviera)
• Luxury resorts in Crete and the Peloponnese

 Euphoria Retreat: Among Europe’s Top Spas

The Euphoria Retreat in Mystras secured 6th place among Europe’s Best Spa Destinations, reinforcing Greece’s rise in the wellness travel sector. Nestled in the foothills of Mount Taygetos, Euphoria combines Byzantine mysticism, modern wellness philosophies, and holistic healing in a uniquely serene setting.

 A Benchmark Year for Greek Tourism

The awards come at a time when Greece is experiencing record-breaking tourism numbers. In 2025, the country is expected to surpass 36 million international arrivals, driven by enhanced infrastructure, extended tourist seasons, and strategic promotion of lesser-known destinations.

“These accolades are not just numbers — they represent the hard work of Greece’s tourism professionals, the authenticity of our destinations, and our deep commitment to welcoming the world,” said Nikos Koyumtsis, Vice President of the Athens Chamber of Commerce.

 Implications for the Future

The global recognition from CN Traveller provides powerful momentum for Greece’s tourism sector ahead of the 2026 travel season. Industry experts say it will boost demand for premium experiences, sustainability-focused stays, and slow travel itineraries, especially among high-spending travelers from the US, Canada, and Australia.

Greece: Not Just a Destination — A Way of Life

From iconic islands to cosmopolitan cities, from bespoke villas to award-winning spas, Greece’s success in the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards reflects a deeper truth: the country continues to evolve without losing its soul.

In a competitive global market, Greece stands out not only for its beauty — but for its authenticity, resilience, and human touch.

Source: pagenews.gr