Greece has officially claimed the title of Best European Country to Visit at the prestigious Telegraph Travel Awards 2025, becoming the new top choice for UK travelers.
This recognition highlights Greece’s enduring appeal and growing popularity among British tourists, known for their high standards and love for quality travel experiences.
The Telegraph Travel Awards are among the most respected honors in the UK travel industry, running annually since 1998. Voted on by over 20,000 readers and subscribers of The Telegraph — one of the UK’s most influential media outlets — the awards celebrate the best global destinations and travel companies based on personal travel experiences over the past year.
In a historic upset, Greece dethroned Italy, which had held the top spot for an incredible 25 consecutive years. Norway took third place, completing the list of Europe’s top three travel destinations for 2025. The award ceremony was held on July 11 in London, where Eleni Skarveli, Director of the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO) for the UK and Ireland, proudly accepted the award on behalf of Greece.

The Telegraph described Greece’s win as “well deserved,” highlighting the country’s incredible diversity and strengths:
Mesmerizing coastlines of the Aegean and Ionian Seas
World-class cultural heritage, from the Parthenon in Athens to Knossos Palace in Crete
Stunning Greek islands, praised as some of the most beautiful and varied in Europe
Rich culinary traditions, warm hospitality, and authentic experiences
This award significantly strengthens Greece’s international image as a top-tier travel destination, especially in the competitive UK market. With The Telegraph’s travel section reaching over 12 million unique visitors annually and more than 600,000 digital subscribers, the exposure from this win is not just prestigious — it's a real boost to Greek tourism.
Greece’s recognition in 2025 proves that the country continues to deliver authenticity, cultural richness, and premium travel services, while remaining accessible and attractive to a global audience. This victory not only cements its standing in the UK but also opens up new opportunities for sustainable tourism growth across the country.
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