October 8, 2025, 1:15 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
Once again this year, readers of “Condé Nast Traveller” have voted and crowned the best islands in Europe. A Greek island takes the top spot, but it’s not Crete or Mykonos. Find out which one it is and who else made it into the top 20 here.
As in previous years, readers of the travel magazine “Condé Nast Traveller” have selected the best islands worldwide, categorized by region. The Maldives top the list for the best islands in Africa and the Indian Ocean, while Bali takes the number one spot in Asia. TRAVELBOOK reveals which island was crowned the best in all of Europe.
The Best Islands in Europe
1st Place: Naxos, Greece
According to the travel magazine “Condé Nast Traveller,” the best island in Europe is Naxos in Greece. It is the largest of the Cyclades islands. Tourists love the fertile landscape, beautiful mountain villages, ancient ruins, and long, white sandy beaches. Since there is no international airport and tourists must travel via Athens, Naxos has so far been spared from mass tourism. Find out where the most beautiful beaches on Naxos are and which sights you should definitely see in this article.
2nd Place: Ibiza, Spain
After topping the list in 2022, Ibiza has now been voted the second-best island in all of Europe. The Spanish island is primarily known for its party and club scene, but relaxation and tranquility are not lacking thanks to numerous beaches and beautiful nature.
3rd Place: Capri, Italy
Even though the Italian island of Capri cannot boast classic white sandy beaches, it still makes it to the podium among Europe’s best islands. Even without a beach, you can enjoy a beach vacation there. Picturesque coves, rocks, and pebble beaches invite you to relax. Numerous attractions, such as the Blue Grotto, also provide variety during your vacation.
The Top 20 Best Islands in Europe:
- Naxos, Greece
- Ibiza, Spain
- Capri, Italy
- Hvar, Croatia
- Canary Islands, Spain
- Mallorca, Spain
- Sicily, Italy
- Crete, Greece
- Madeira, Portugal
- Corfu, Greece
- Rhodes, Greece
- Skiathos, Greece
- Corsica, France
- Mykonos, Greece
- Cyprus
- Sardinia, Italy
- Folegandros, Greece
- Santorini, Greece
- Malta
- Azores, Portugal