Naxos has earned international recognition, being listed among the world’s best destinations for 2026, according to the latest rankings from the prestigious World Travel Market (WTM) in London. The selection, featured on the travel blog Where Life is Great, was based on extensive field research by Marta Ostoya, acclaimed as “the most influential talent on the web,” who combined insights from the WTM exhibition with her travels across 40 countries.
According to the ranking, Naxos claimed the top spot, followed by Warsaw, Spain’s Costa Brava, Sicily, Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit, Brazil’s Bahia, Sharjah in the UAE, Okinawa in Japan, and Iceland. The island’s Instagram page, @naxosandsmallcyclades, reflects its growing international popularity.
Ostoya praised the island for its golden beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and charming villages. She described Naxos as “the island that quietly captured my heart” and highlighted its family-friendly atmosphere. Restaurants, beaches, and local communities make it ideal for children, she noted, adding that the island embodies everything travelers seek in a Greek summer destination.
The Deputy Mayor for Tourism of Naxos and the Small Cyclades, Vangelis Katsaras, emphasized that the island’s goal is to strengthen its international profile through initiatives like this recognition. “Naxos and the Small Cyclades represent authentic Greece, with picturesque villages, genuine hospitality, unique traditions, exceptional natural beauty, activities, and local products,” Katsaras said.
Tourism statistics underscore this momentum: in 2025, Naxos recorded a 30.9% increase in air arrivals and a 5.8% rise in ferry traffic compared to the previous year, setting a new record for the island.
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