The European Best Destinations portal has released its ranking of the best beaches in Europe for 2026—the winner is a beach on Portugal’s Atlantic coast. The top 10 also includes locations in Greece, Italy, Spain, Norway, and Turkey. Learn more about which beach topped the list, the criteria used to select the winner, and which celebrities have already visited this coast

Every year, the European Best Destinations portal selects the continent’s best beaches, and the results of the 2026 ranking have already been announced. First place went to Monte Clarigo Beach in Portugal, located on the Atlantic coast of the Algarve region.

Why this particular location beat out dozens of competitors from all over Europe, what criteria were used to evaluate the beaches, and who else made it into the top ten—we’ll cover all that below.

Planning a vacation on the Atlantic coast of Portugal or another European country?

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Where is Monte Clarigo Beach located and what is it known for

Monte Clarigo is located on the Costa Vicentina—one of the least developed stretches of Portugal’s Atlantic coast. The beach attracts visitors with its golden cliffs, powerful ocean waves, and panoramic sunsets, which have already earned a reputation as some of the most breathtaking in the country. The region appeals to those who prefer natural landscapes and ocean surfing over typical crowded resorts.

The restaurant O Sargo has become part of the local culture, hosting Música Ao Vivo live music nights every Friday. Guests watch the sunset right on the ocean shore—barefoot and accompanied by live music.

What criteria were used to evaluate European beaches in 2026

The European Best Destinations ranking is based on a comprehensive assessment. Among the criteria considered this year:

• natural beauty and overall atmosphere;
• water quality;
• suitability for family vacations;
• the beach’s ecological condition;
• opportunities for active leisure (surfing, hiking);
• beach infrastructure and local character.

Based on the combination of these indicators, Monte Clarigo received the highest score among all nominees.

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The Top 10 Best Beaches in Europe in 2026 according to European Best Destinations

1. Monte Clarigo, Portugal;
2. Voutoumi, Greece;
3. Fteri, Greece;
4. Elafonisi, Greece;
5. Bogliasco, Italy;
6. Cala Mesquida, Spain;
7. Kvalvik, Norway;
8. Rovinia, Greece;
9. Kaputash, Turkey;
10. Paleokastritsa, Greece.

Greek beaches accounted for half of the ranking, while Scandinavian Norway was the only representative of Northern Europe on the list.

Get travel insurance before traveling to Portugal!

A trip to Portugal’s Atlantic coast requires reliable insurance coverage—surfing, rocky coastlines, and active recreation come with certain risks. On the Visit World portal, you can quickly purchase travel insurance with medical expense coverage that will be valid for the entire duration of your trip.

Purchase your policy online in advance and head off on vacation with confidence!

Reminder! In our previous article, we discussed the most luxurious destinations for traveling with children in 2026.

Photo: Tripadvisor

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