Greece placed third in the 2023 Reader’s Choice Awards for best countries to visit. Nine Greek islands also made it in Europe’s top 20 islands. The rankings were recently published by the prestigious Conde Nast Traveler, with readers participating by casting their votes for their preferred travel destinations.
In the Reader’s Choice Awards, Greece stood tall alongside other global top travel giants, with Japan and Italy claiming the top two positions. The rankings, based on feedback from seasoned travelers, highlight Greece’s ability to offer an unparalleled travel experience.
The top five preferred travel destinations also encompassed Ireland and New Zealand, while Spain secured the sixth spot and Switzerland found itself in the tenth position. France, on the other hand, landed in 20th place, losing one place to Sri Lanka.
Nine Greek Islands in Europe’s Top 20
Readers also voted the beautiful islands of Greece as the top travel destinations, with nine of them making the list of Europe’s top 20 islands.
Among them, Rhodes, Corfu, and Paros received special recognition, occupying the 17th to 19th places in rankings. Readers chose these islands for certain reasons. Rhodes is popular because of its exquisite hospitality, pristine beaches, and culinary scene, while Paros has seen a surge in luxury hotels along its enchanting coastline. Corfu, often referred to as the emerald pearl of Greece, boasts a lush landscape of pine forests, mountains, and pristine beaches.
Despite forest fires in 2023, Rhodes continues to enchant with its stunning beaches. The island also boasts ancient cities and picturesque mountain chapels located in the midst of the island’s interior, noted Condé Nast Traveler.
Kos ranks 13th with its stunning beaches and preserved ancient architecture, including 14th-century castles and a Hippocratic plane tree.
The Asclepeion in Kos island, Greece, 3rd BC.
📸Michael Reisis pic.twitter.com/MmrbhOOyOp— Saga (@KourCostas) March 26, 2023
Known for its stunning beaches and bustling harbor, Skiathos in the Aegean attracts travelers seeking equal parts relaxation and adventure. This island was ranked as the 12th most popular. Sifnos, which has a reputation as the Greek island with the most delicious food, is just ahead of Skiathos.
Santorini comes in at number seven with its romantic and picturesque landscapes, including whitewashed villages perched on the edge of a volcanic caldera, unique black sand beaches, and stunning sunsets. However, peak season also brings an overwhelming number of tourists.
Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, took 4th place in the rankings. Readers value it for its rugged natural beauty and cosmopolitan cities, making it a diverse and attractive destination.
The highest position belongs to Mykonos. This vibrant island took 2nd place. Readers valued it for its glitzy beach clubs, perfect for leisurely lunches and lively evenings. They also noted the bustling city filled with stylish boutiques and hot summer nights dominated by hedonistic clubs.
As for the very first place, readers chose Sardinia, Italy. Located in the Mediterranean Sea, it is known for its spectacular scenery, from the Costa Smeralda in the northeast, a playground for billionaires and celebrities, to the colorful villages and archaeological ruins. Sardinia, with its rich cultural heritage and enchanting landscapes, has won the hearts of most tourists.
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