Tripadvisor 2026 Awards: Crete Ranks 9th Global Top Destination – Greece Shines

Greece continues its strong run in global tourism rankings, securing six impressive placements in Tripadvisor's Travelers’ Choice Awards: Best of the Best Destinations 2026, announced today (January 13, 2026). Based on millions of traveler reviews from October 2024 to September 2025, the awards highlight destinations that truly stand out for culture, food, romance, and solo adventures.

Six Greek destinations feature prominently across major categories, confirming Greece's appeal as a year-round powerhouse amid fierce international competition from spots like Bali (world #1), London, Dubai, Paris, Rome, New York, and Bangkok.

Crete: The Undisputed Star of Greek Tourism
Crete emerges as Greece's biggest winner, ranking in the global Top 10 Destinations at 9th place worldwide. It climbs even higher in Europe, securing a top position (around 4th in regional lists). Beyond overall appeal, Crete ranks 8th globally and 4th in Europe for Best Gastronomic Destinations—solid proof that the island, birthplace of the Mediterranean diet, has become a world-class culinary hotspot with its beaches, history, and fresh local cuisine.

Athens: Rising as a Modern Cultural and Food Hub
The Greek capital holds strong in Europe, ranking among the Best Destinations (23rd place). Athens excels in specialized categories: it climbs to 22nd globally and 13th in Europe for Best Cultural Destinations, cementing its status as a contemporary cultural metropolis blending ancient heritage with modern vibrancy. In gastronomy, Athens takes 14th place in Europe, reflecting the city's upgraded restaurant scene and the growing international love for Greek cuisine.

Honeymoons: Mykonos Overtakes Santorini as the Hot Trend for 2026
Greece dominates the romantic getaway map with three Aegean icons. Mykonos surges to 12th place worldwide in Best Destinations for Honeymoons/Wedding Trips, edging ahead of traditional favorite Santorini (now at 16th globally for newlyweds). Paros completes the strong showing, landing at 25th place globally—highlighting how these islands offer luxury, beaches, and romance in fresh ways for 2026 travelers.

Piraeus Enters the Spotlight for Solo Travel
In a historic first, Piraeus claims 25th place worldwide among Best Destinations for Solo Travel. Once seen mainly as a transit port for the islands, Piraeus has transformed into a standalone urban hub with vibrant streets, waterfront appeal, and growing international tourism interest.

These awards arrive in a highly competitive field, where top global spots include Bali, London, Dubai, Paris, Rome, New York, and Bangkok dominating overall lists; Singapore, London, and Krakow leading culture; and London, Dubai, and Rome topping food.

Greece's performance underscores its resilience and diversity—from Crete's all-around excellence to the Cyclades' romantic edge and Athens' cultural depth—making 2026 another banner year for Hellenic tourism.

What do you think—planning a trip to Crete or Mykonos in 2026? Share your thoughts below!