Some destinations earn their reputation once.. Santorini earns it every single year!
At the 14th Leisure Lifestyle Awards 2026, hosted by the prestigious American travel publication Global Traveler, Santorini was once again crowned Best Island in Europe for the 13th consecutive year.
The award ceremony took place on April 20, 2026 in Miami, in the presence of leading figures from the international tourism industry, with the Greek awards received by the
Head of the Greek National Tourism Organisation for North America, Konstantinos Charokopos.
What makes this recognition particularly meaningful is the way it is decided. The Leisure Lifestyle Awards are not handed down by a panel of industry insiders. They are voted on by the readers of Global Traveler, thousands of well-traveled, discerning people who have seen the world and still keep choosing the same answer. When those travelers vote, year after year, for the same island, it means something real.
Greece also claimed first place among international destinations in the category of Best Historical Attractions for the fifth consecutive year. A double recognition that tells a story not just about an island, but about an entire country that has mastered the art of leaving people changed.
So why does Santorini keep winning?
The honest answer is that it does not try to. The caldera has been there for thousands of years. The vines grow low to the ground, twisted by the wind, producing wines that taste like nowhere else on earth. The light at sunset does what no filter can replicate. The architecture feels like it grew out of the rock rather than being placed on top of it. Santorini does not follow travel trends. It simply exists, completely and unapologetically itself, and the world keeps noticing.
For travelers coming from North America, one of the most strategically important markets for Greek tourism, Santorini represents something specific. It is the European island experience at its most complete. Natural drama, historical depth, world-class food and wine, and a standard of hospitality that feels personal rather than polished.
At Aestian Hospitality, we have always understood that our job is not to compete with the island. It is to get out of its way. Every property we curate, every detail we consider, every morning we set a table with a view of the caldera, we are simply making sure that nothing interrupts the experience that Santorini was always going to deliver. The island does the work. We just make sure you are present enough to receive it.
Thirteen consecutive years as Best Island in Europe is not a coincidence. It is an open invitation. Whether this is your first time on the island or you have lost count of your visits, Santorini has a way of feeling both familiar and completely new every single time. That is the thing about places that are genuinely great. They do not need to surprise you. They just need to be themselves.
We will see you here.
Panagiotis Inglesis is the co-owner and General manager of Athina Luxury Suites, along with his wife Mrs.Artemis Argyrou. Together they had a vision to create one of the best boutique hotels in Santorini and today they continue their vision…Athina Luxury Suites is considered one of the top hotels on the island.