Spain and Croatia dominate a new ranking of Europe’s best island holiday destinations for 2026, with nine of the top 10 spots claimed by islands in the two countries.
The list, compiled by travel provider Saga Holidays, assessed 80 island destinations across Europe using three key criteria: weather conditions, food and drink options, and the amount of green space.
Green areas accounted for 45% of the final score, followed by weather at 35% and food and drink availability at 20%. Scores for island groups were calculated using the average results of the islands within each archipelago.
Tenerife tops the ranking
Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, was named Europe’s best island destination, achieving a score of 95 out of 100.
According to the study, the island earned top marks for its combination of natural beauty, local cuisine and exceptional year-round sunshine.
Fellow Canary Island La Palma ranked second with 94 points. Often referred to as “La Isla Bonita” the island is recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve because of its rich natural environment and commitment to sustainable development.
Portugal’s Madeira secured third place with 93 points. The Atlantic archipelago is home to the ancient Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Croatia completed the top five, with Korčula ranking fourth on 92 points and Mljet fifth with 90 points.
Europe’s top 10 islands for 2026
- Tenerife, Spain – 95/100
- La Palma, Spain – 94/100
- Madeira, Portugal – 93/100
- Korčula, Croatia – 92/100
- Mljet, Croatia – 90/100
- Majorca, Spain – 89/100
- Lošinj, Croatia – 88/100
- Brač, Croatia – 87/100
- Gran Canaria, Spain – 86/100
- La Gomera, Spain – 85/100
Canary Islands lead for sunshine
The Canary Islands dominated the weather category, reflecting their reputation for warm temperatures and abundant sunshine throughout the year.
Tenerife again claimed first place, followed by La Gomera and Gran Canaria.
Top islands for weather
- Tenerife, Spain – 88/100
- La Gomera, Spain – 86/100
- Gran Canaria, Spain – 85/100
The study also named the Canary Islands Europe’s top archipelago overall, citing their strong performance across all categories.
Italy takes the lead for food
Italy emerged as the clear winner when it came to food and drink, securing two of the top three places.
Capri topped the culinary ranking, followed by Sardinia, while Greece’s Santorini completed the podium.
Top islands for food
- Capri, Italy – 75/100
- Sardinia, Italy – 66/100
- Santorini, Greece – 65/100
Saga highlighted local specialities such as Caprese salad and Ravioli Caprese among the culinary attractions of Capri.
Croatia excels in nature and greenery
Croatia performed particularly strongly in the category measuring green space and natural landscapes.
Mljet, often known as Croatia’s “Green Island”, ranked first, ahead of Madeira and Korčula.
Top islands for greenery
- Mljet, Croatia – 86/100
- Madeira, Portugal – 85/100
- Korčula, Croatia – 83/100
According to the study, Mljet remains less crowded than many of Croatia’s better-known destinations, making it an attractive option for travellers seeking a more nature-focused escape.
Overall, the rankings suggest that travellers looking for sunshine should head to the Canary Islands, food enthusiasts may prefer Italy’s islands, while those seeking lush landscapes and outdoor activities are likely to find Croatia among Europe’s most appealing destinations.
Source: euronews
