Portugal Wins Europe’s Leading Destination at 2026 World Travel Awards

Portugal did it again! The country was named Europe’s Leading Destination at the 2026 World Travel Awards – for the eighth time.

But that is not all. Portugal obtained over 30 awards with some of the main ones in Lisbon, Algarve, Porto, and the islands of Azores and Madeira. TAP Air Portugal also took home two trophies.

For property buyers and investors, these awards mean that Portugal continues to attract tourism across its cities, islands, and natural areas. Discover the latest World Travel Awards for Portugal.

About the World Travel Awards

Founded in 1993, the World Travel Awards is a brand globally recognized for celebrating, rewarding, and acknowledging different sectors across the tourism industry. Many people describe it as the “Oscars of the travel industry”.

Each year, a panel of experts, which mostly consists of members of the World Travel and Tourism Council, provide prestigious awards on both a regional and global level. Some of the categories include destinations, attractions, airlines, hotels, to name a few.

On 17 October 2026, the World Travel Awards Europe Gala ceremony was held at the Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort, in Montenegro.

How many awards does Portugal have?

Portugal won 32 out of the 157 categories at the 2026 European World Travel Awards, according to the Resident and AICEP Portugal Global.

Portugal was crowned Europe’s Leading Destination in 2026 for a second time in a row, and eight times in total. Lisbon and Porto were some of the most recognized destinations, while Madeira was repeatedly named the “Best Island Destination”.

Among the many awards offered at the Gala ceremony, TAP received two: The best airline to South America and to Africa. The Dark Sky Alqueva reserve in the middle of Alentejo was crowned “Europe’s Leading Tourist Attraction”.

The Azores Islands obtained “Europe’s Leading Regional Adventure Tourism Destination”. The Paiva Walkways and Aquashow Water Park won the same awards in 2026 as they did the year prior. Many tourism companies and hotels were also honored.

For a full list of Europe’s winners, check the official website for the World Travel Awards.

Lisbon: Europe's Leading City Destination

Lisbon took home “Europe’s Leading City Destination” at the 2026 World Travel Awards. The city was recognized for its urban travel, defeating contenders such as Rome, London, and Barcelona.

The Portuguese capital also secured another prestigious award “Europe’s Leading Cruise Destination”. It serves as a major source market for cruise passengers attracting visitors from around the world.

The cultural heritage, historic architecture, and diversity are some of the main reasons foreigners are buying property in Lisbon, Portugal.

Yet, Lisbon is no stranger to the spotlight. The capital has won “Europe’s Leading City Destination” three times already, including in 2018, 2023, and 2024. The hotels in the area have also received many awards.

Porto: Best Cultural City Destination

Porto obtained “Europe’s Best Cultural City Destination” in 2026, based on the World Travel Awards. In the wider area, Vila Nova de Gaia and the Douro Valley stood out with some of the country’s top hotel awards.

For anyone buying property in Porto, Portugal, the region is known for its Port wine cellars, riverside views, and stunning terraced vineyards.

The Algarve: Europe's Leading Beach Destination

Portugal’s triumph goes beyond its major cities. The Algarve was voted “Europe’s Leading Beach Destination” in 2026 at the World Travel Awards, adding to the regions long list of previous awards in that same category.

For expats buying property in Algarve, Portugal, the region is renowned for its world-class golf courses, beautiful sea views, golden sands, and modern marinas. Various Algarve businesses were also featured at the Gala in Kotor, Montenegro.

Why Visit Portugal: Europe's Leading Destination in 2026

Portugal is one of the safest countries to visit, invest, and live in, ranking seventh in the 2026 Global Peace Index.

Tourism in Portugal is a booming industry, creating significant revenue, infrastructure development, and employment. Whether you are interested in wine tours in Portugal‘s Alentejo or the Douro Valley, there is something for everyone.

Many tourists who visit Portugal often come back and decide to buy property here. They are drawn to the pleasant climate, high quality of life, and affordable living costs. If you too are looking for your dream home here, our team of buyer agents can help you start your buying process to Europe’s Leading Destination for 2026.

Goldcrest: How We Can Help You 

Goldcrest is the first buyer’s agent in Portugal. We provide expert, impartial advice on real estate investments and how to buy property in Portugal. From scouting out the perfect property through to property acquisition, we have you covered throughout the process. 

Unlike traditional real estate agents in Portugal who represent the seller, we are dedicated exclusively to protecting the buyer’s interests. 

If you are looking to purchase property in Portugal, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our team of skilled experts is available to solve all your real estate doubts, helping you with the property search and offering insightful expertise and strategic advice. 

Why choose Goldcrest?

• Local knowledge: With offices located across Portugal, our presence nationwide allows us to assist you personally across the country.
• Independent service: As an independent buying agent, we do not represent any development or project. Our service is entirely tailored toward each individual client, providing you with everything you need to secure the perfect property at the best possible price.
• Streamlined process: Our real estate agents speak English and Portuguese, and our service is completely focused on providing you with a hassle-free buying experience, saving you time. We can also help you buy property remotely.
• Experienced team: Our expert real estate team has a vast local knowledge of the Portuguese property market. We have cutting-edge technology and metasearch tools at your disposal to provide full market coverage, ensuring the best investment choices and negotiated prices.
• Network of partners: We have a close network of partners, including lawyers, property management services, builders, architects, designers, and landscape gardeners, again saving you time and hassle by providing you with trusted experts in their field of work.