Published on November 1, 2025
Portugal, Spain, and Georgia are set to join Greece in a dominant showing at the 2025 World Travel Awards Europe Gala. These countries have earned prestigious recognition for their exceptional destinations and standout tourism services. Their inclusion highlights their growing influence in the global travel scene, where their unique cultural offerings, landscapes, and hospitality continue to attract travelers from around the world. This recognition underscores their commitment to enhancing the travel experience, blending tradition with innovation, and driving the European tourism sector to new heights.
Greece captured the spotlight at the 32nd World Travel Awards (WTA) Europe Gala Ceremony, where the country’s hotels, businesses, and destinations were honored for their exceptional service and unique offerings. The event, held in Sardinia, Italy, brought together prominent figures from the travel industry to celebrate the best in the field. Known as the “Oscars of the travel industry,” the World Travel Awards have been recognizing excellence in tourism since 1993, with winners chosen based on votes from travel professionals and high-end tourism consumers.

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In this year’s edition, Greece emerged as a standout, earning a remarkable 20 European distinctions, along with 35 national awards. This recognition highlighted Greece’s continued appeal as a top-tier travel destination, with its vibrant culture, rich history, and diverse landscapes playing a pivotal role in these accolades. From its bustling capital to its charming islands, Greece demonstrated its unmatched position in Europe’s tourism landscape.
Athens, the country’s iconic capital, received the title of Europe’s Leading Cultural City Destination, a testament to its blend of ancient heritage and modern vibrancy. The city’s wealth of historical sites, including the Acropolis and Parthenon, alongside its thriving art and cultural scenes, make it a beacon for tourists seeking to immerse themselves in both history and contemporary culture. The award underscores Athens’ appeal as a cultural hub, drawing visitors from across the globe to experience its timeless beauty.

Additionally, the This is Athens–Convention & Visitors Bureau earned the title of Europe’s Leading City Tourist Board. The bureau has worked tirelessly to enhance Athens’ global tourism presence, offering a wide range of services to both leisure and business travelers. The award highlights Athens’ growing reputation as a top destination for conferences, exhibitions, and other events, contributing to its position as one of Europe’s leading cities for tourism.
The Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace was another major winner, recognized as Europe’s Leading Emerging Tourism Destination. This award reflects the region’s growing prominence in the travel industry, offering visitors a diverse array of experiences. From its picturesque coastlines to its rich cultural heritage, Eastern Macedonia and Thrace is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for those looking to explore Greece beyond the well-known spots.

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On the national level, several Greek destinations earned prestigious titles. Thassos was named Greece’s Leading Authentic Island Destination for 2025, recognizing its unspoiled beauty and authentic Greek charm. Known for its crystal-clear waters, lush greenery, and traditional villages, Thassos stands as a prime example of the Greek islands’ timeless appeal. The Ionian Islands, renowned for their stunning landscapes and charming towns, were recognized as Greece’s Leading Island Destination for 2025. These islands, including Corfu and Kefalonia, have long been favorite spots for those seeking a more relaxed, yet equally enriching, Greek experience.
Mani, located in the southern part of the Peloponnese, received the title of Greece’s Leading Mainland Destination for 2025. With its rugged mountains, traditional stone villages, and dramatic coastline, Mani offers an authentic slice of Greece, making it an ideal destination for adventurous travelers. The recognition highlights the growing popularity of Greece’s mainland as a unique alternative to the more traditional island escapes.
Greece’s success at the World Travel Awards wasn’t limited to its destinations; its travel companies also garnered significant attention. Avis, a leader in the car rental industry, was named Greece’s best car rental company. With a strong reputation for reliable service and a wide range of vehicles, Avis continues to play a crucial role in enhancing the travel experience for tourists exploring Greece.
Mideast Travel Worldwide was honored as both the best destination management company and travel management company in Greece. The company’s ability to tailor experiences to the specific needs of travelers has made it a key player in the Greek tourism sector. Bookgreece.com, an online travel agency, was named the top in its category, making it easier for travelers to book their Greek adventures with ease. Luxury Travel DMC, a destination management company focused on high-end tourism, was also recognized as the best travel agency in Greece, serving luxury travelers seeking bespoke experiences.
While Greece claimed a significant share of the awards, other European destinations also shone brightly at the event. Portugal’s tourism strengths were highlighted with the prestigious title of Europe’s Leading Destination, while its scenic Atlantic archipelago, Madeira, was named Europe’s Leading Island Destination. Spain’s Huesca La Magia, with its vast natural landscapes and rich cultural offerings, was honored as Europe’s Leading Adventure Tourism Destination, showcasing the region’s appeal to adventure-seekers.
Cannes, France, took the title of Europe’s Leading Festival & Event Destination, a reflection of its world-renowned film festival and vibrant cultural scene. Madrid, Spain, was recognized as Europe’s Leading Meetings & Conference Destination, cementing its position as a top choice for business events. Batumi, Georgia, earned the title of Europe’s Leading All-Season Destination, underscoring its year-round appeal to tourists.
Dublin, Ireland, enjoyed a double win at the event. Trinity College was named Europe’s Leading Academic Tourist Attraction, recognizing its historical significance and role as a key destination for educational tourism. The Convention Centre in Dublin was also awarded Europe’s Leading Meetings & Conference Venue, highlighting the city’s growing importance as a hub for international events.
Portugal, Spain, and Georgia are joining Greece in dominating the 2025 World Travel Awards Europe Gala, earning recognition for their unique destinations and exceptional tourism services that continue to attract global travelers.
The 32nd World Travel Awards highlighted the best in European tourism, with Greece leading the way through its award-winning destinations and travel services. This recognition serves as a testament to the country’s status as a global tourism powerhouse, continuing to captivate visitors with its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and world-class hospitality.

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Tags: greece, Portugal, Tourism news, World Travel Awards

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