Greek beaches have emerged as top contenders, claiming half the spots on the list of the 10 best in Europe for 2026, according to the new ranking by European Best Destinations. This list once again confirms our country’s reputation as one of Europe’s most ideal summer destinations.
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Which Greek beaches secured a spot on the list
This year’s list includes five Greek beaches, with Voutoumi in Antipaxos, Fteri in Kefalonia, Elafonisi in Crete, Rovinia in Corfu and Paleokastritsa in Corfu ranking among Europe’s finest shores.
The evaluation was based on numerous criteria, including water quality, accessibility, available activities, natural beauty, family suitability, and environmental protection. The research incorporated both traveler experiences and assessments from the organization’s editors.
What is Europe’s top beach
First place went to Praia de Monte Clérigo in Portugal’s Algarve region. The sandy beach is located within the Southwest Alentejo Natural Park and is a popular destination for hiking and water sports enthusiasts.
Greece’s ranking on the list
The highest Greek presence on the list is Voutoumi in Antipaxos, which secured second place. Following is Fteri in Kefalonia in third place, a distinction that comes shortly after its recognition as Europe’s top beach by another international travel assessment.
In fourth place is Elafonisi in Crete, which continues to rank among Europe’s most recognizable and award-winning coastal landscapes.
Rovinia in Corfu placed eighth, while the top ten is completed by Paleokastritsa, also in Corfu, in tenth place, giving the island two spots on the list.
The 10 best beaches in Europe
According to the European Best Destinations ranking, Europe’s top beaches for 2026 are:
Monte Clérigo – Algarve, Portugal
Voutoumi – Antipaxos, Greece
Fteri – Kefalonia, Greece
Elafonisi – Crete, Greece
Bogliasco Beach – Italy
Cala Mesquida – Majorca, Spain
Kvalvika Beach – Norway
Rovinia – Corfu, Greece
Kaputas Beach – Turkey
Paleokastritsa – Corfu, Greece
