Greece clinched third place 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 taking 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 beauty of the Greece’s islands as the top travel destinations, with nine of them making the list of Europe’s top 20 islands.
Among them, Paros, Corfu and Rhodes received special recognition, occupying places from 19 to 17 respectively. Readers choose this island for certain reasons. Known for its warm hospitality, pristine beaches and culinary scene, Paros has seen a surge in luxury hotels along its enchanting coastline. Corfu, often called the emerald pearl of Greece, boasts a lush landscape of pine forests, mountains and pristine beaches.
Rhodes, despite forest fires in 2023, continues to enchant with its stunning beaches. The island also boasts ancient cities and picturesque mountain chapels located in the middle of the island’s interior, noted Conde Nest 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 harbour, the Aegean beauty of Skiathos attracts travelers seeking equal parts relaxation and adventure. They ranked this island in 12th place. One place ahead is Sifnos, which has a reputation as the most delicious Greek island.
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, the media note that during the peak season there can be many tourists here.
Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, took 4th place in the ranking. 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’s known for its spectacular scenery, from the Costa Smeralda in the northeast – a playground for billionaires and celebrities – to colorful villages and archaeological ruins. Sardinia, with its rich cultural heritage and enchanting landscapes, has won the hearts of most tourists.