World Travel Awards: Portugal voted “Europe’s Leading Destination” in 2025

World Travel Awards 2025

At the European gala of the World Travel Awards 2025, held on the Italian island of Sardinia, Portugal won over 20 awards, reaffirming its position as one of the most sought-after destinations in Europe.

Portugal voted “Europe’s Leading Destination” in 2025

Besides being voted “Europe’s Leading Destination 2025,” the country also celebrated distinctions for Madeira Island and the cities of Lisbon and Porto, alongside several hotels, resorts, and tourism attractions recognized as the best in Europe.

Often referred to as the “Oscars of Tourism”, the World Travel Awards celebrate excellence across the global travel and hospitality industry. 

Europe Winners 

Europe's Leading:

• Destination - Portugal

Porto & North

The North continues to gain international recognition for its authentic character, urban sophistication, and wine culture.

• City Destination – Porto

• Adventure Tourist Attraction – Passadiços do Paiva (Arouca UNESCO Global Geopark)

Lisbon Region

Lisbon once again stood out as Europe’s favorite city escape, celebrated for its design, boutique hospitality, and timeless charm.

• City Break Destination – Lisbon
• Design Hotel – 1908 Lisboa Hotel
• Luxury Boutique Hotel – Valverde Lisboa Hotel & Garden

• Most Romantic Resort – Valverde Sintra Palácio de Seteais
  

Alentejo

The Alentejo shines internationally for its dark skies and commitment to sustainable tourism.

• Tourism Attraction – Dark Sky Alqueva
• Tourism Award – Dark Sky Alqueva

Madeira

• Luxury Hotel – Savoy Palace

Portugal Winners

Portugal's Leading: 

• Beach Resort - Hotel Quinta do Lago
• Boutique Hotel - The Lumiares Hotel & Spa
• Boutique Resort - Quinta de São Bernardo – Winery & Farmhouse
• Business Hotel - Renaissance Porto Lapa Hotel
• City Hotel - Hospes Infante Sagres Porto
• Conference Hotel - InterContinental Lisbon
• Design Hotel - The Vintage Hotel & Spa
• Family Resort - Dunas Douradas Beach Club
• Family & Wellness Resort - Martinhal Sagres Beach Family Resort
• Green Hotel - Vila Vita Parc
• Hotel - Art Legacy Hotel
• Hotel Residences - Sheraton Cascais Resort
• Hotel Suite - Infinity Penthouse @ Conrad Algarve
• Lifestyle Hotel - LUMEN Hotel & The Lisbon Light Show
• Luxury Hotel - Savoy Palace
• Luxury Resort - Domes Lake Algarve, Autograph Collection
• Resort - Quinta do Lago
• Serviced Apartments - Pine Hills Vilamoura
• Villa Resort - Dunas Douradas Beach Club
• Wine Region Hotel - Valverde Santar Hotel & Spa

Why Visit Portugal Now 

With its award-winning destinations, exceptional hospitality, and world-class wine and gastronomy, Portugal continues to shine on the global travel stage. From historic cities and coastal escapes to vineyard estates and unspoiled nature, each region offers authentic experiences that combine tradition, innovation, and excellence.

Whether exploring Lisbon’s vibrant energy, Porto’s riverfront charm, Madeira’s lush landscapes, or the Alentejo’s starlit skies, Portugal is not just Europe’s leading destination; it’s a country where every journey tells a story.