Portugal has once again dazzled at the European edition of the World Travel Awards, claiming the title of Europe’s Best Destination – an accolade that reinforces the country’s standing as a global tourism powerhouse. The awards ceremony was held in Sardinia, Italy, bringing together the leading figures from Europe’s tourism industry.
According to the official World Travel Awards website, Portugal stood out across a wide range of categories, including destinations, hotels, airlines and travel companies. Highlights of the 2025 edition include Top Atlântico being named Europe’s Best Travel Agency, while Aquashow Water Park in Quarteira received Europe’s Best Water Park award for the first time. The immersive experience “Ah Amália – Living Experience,” celebrating the life and work of the iconic fado singer, was also recognised as Europe’s Best New Tourist Attraction.
Portuguese destinations among Europe’s elite
Beyond the top award, Portugal picked up numerous prizes that underscore its leadership in European tourism:
- Madeira was named Europe’s Best Island Destination 2025, a remarkable feat it has achieved for 11 consecutive years, solidifying its reputation as a top-tier international destination.
- Lisbon was recognised as Europe’s Best City Break Destination, celebrated for its mix of culture, gastronomy and vibrant urban life.
- Porto received Europe’s Best Urban Destination award, praised for its authenticity, heritage and growing international appeal.
- Dark Sky Alqueva was honoured once again, winning both Europe’s Best Tourist Attraction and the Responsible Tourism Award, exemplifying sustainable tourism and astrotourism on a global scale.
- The Madeira Promotion Bureau was named Europe’s Best Tourism Organisation, recognising its outstanding work in promoting the archipelago.
Portuguese hotels shine
Portugal’s hospitality sector once again dominated the awards:
- Savoy Palace was named Europe’s Best Luxury Hotel, cementing the prestige of the national brand.
- Valverde Sintra Palácio de Seteais won Europe’s Most Romantic Hotel, highlighting the charm and tradition of Sintra.
- Hotel 1908 Lisboa was awarded Europe’s Best Design Hotel, blending historic architecture with contemporary flair.
- Lumen Hotel & The Lisbon Light Show was recognised as Europe’s Best Lifestyle Hotel, celebrating creativity and the fusion of design with immersive experiences.
- Pine Cliffs Residences, in the Algarve, took home Europe’s Best Serviced Residence Hotel award, showcasing excellence in long-stay tourism.
- Dunas Douradas Beach Club, also in the Algarve, won Europe’s Best Resort Villas, cementing the region’s reputation for premium beach tourism.
- Valverde Lisboa Hotel & Garden was named Europe’s Best Luxury Boutique Hotel, while Amazing Evolution was recognised as Europe’s Best Boutique Hotel Operator.
Airlines and tour operators receive accolades
Portugal also excelled in aviation and organised tourism:
- TAP Air Portugal was named Europe’s Best Airline to Africa and Europe’s Best Airline to South America, maintaining its dominance on these routes.
- Azores Airlines was recognised as Europe’s Best Airline to North America, while SATA Air Açores was awarded Europe’s Best Regional Airline.
- FCM Travel – Portugal was named Leading Travel Management Company in both Portugal and Europe.
National awards highlight excellence across the country
In addition to international accolades, the World Travel Awards 2025 celebrated a host of Portuguese winners in national categories:
- Leading Beach Resort: Hotel Quinta do Lago
- Best Boutique Hotel: O Lumiares Hotel & Spa
- Leading Boutique Resort: Quinta de São Bernardo – Adega e Quinta
- Best Business Hotel: Hotel Renaissance Porto Lapa
- Best Urban Hotel: Hospes Infante Sagres Porto
- Best Conference Hotel: InterContinental Lisboa
- Best Design Hotel: O Vintage Hotel & Spa
- Best Eco Hotel: Vila Vita Parc
- Best Hotel: Hotel Art Legacy
- Best Lifestyle Hotel: Lumen Hotel & The Lisbon Light Show
- Best Luxury Hotel: Savoy Palace
- Best Luxury Resort: Domos do Lago Algarve, Autograph Collection
- Best Wine Region Hotel: Valverde Santar Hotel & Spa
- Best Serviced Hotels: Sheraton Cascais Resort
- Best Family Resort: Clube de Praia Dunas Douradas
- Best Family & Wellness Resort: Martinhal Sagres Beach Family Resort
- Best Resort Villas: Clube de Praia Dunas Douradas
- Best Serviced Apartments: Colinas de Pinheiros, Vilamoura
- Leading Online Travel Agency: NETVIAGENS.pt
- Leading Resort: Quinta do Lago
- Leading Destination Management Company: Cititravel DMC
- Leading Tour Operator: Deltatur
- Leading Car Rental Company: Europcar
Portugal’s remarkable haul at the 2025 World Travel Awards is a clear testament to its status as one of Europe’s premier destinations, offering world-class experiences from north to south.
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