Best European Destination 2023

It was last September in Batumi, Georgia, that tourism royalty gathered for a spectacular three-day event to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the World Travel Awards (WTA).

The WTA was created in 1993 to recognise, reward and celebrate excellence in all sectors of the tourism industry. Today, the WTA brand is recognised worldwide as the ultimate mark of quality, with winners setting the benchmark to which all others aspire. Every year, the WTA covers the world with a series of regional gala ceremonies organised to recognise and celebrate individual and collective success in each geographical region. The WTA gala ceremonies are widely regarded as the best networking opportunities in the travel industry, with government and industry leaders in attendance, with international impact and broadcast.

Portugal was honoured with the prestigious title of ‘Best European Destination 2023’ during the 30th WTA ceremony. This achievement was accompanied by a further 17 European awards in various categories, consolidating Portugal’s status as a destination of excellence.

Among the highlighted awards are:

Lisbon: “Best City Destination in Europe 2023”

Porto: “Best Destination for City Break in Europe 2023”

Passadiços do Paiva, Arouca: “Best Adventure Tourist Attraction in Europe 2023”

Algarve: “Best Beach Destination in Europe 2023”

Madeira: “Best Island Destination in Europe 2023”

Other recognitions, include:

Algarve Tourism Bureau | “Best Beach Destination in Europe 2023”

Amazing Evolution | “Best Boutique Hotel Operator in Europe 2023”, “Best Hotel Management Company in Europe 2023”

Bairro Alto Hotel | “Best Reference Hotel in Europe 2023”

Dark Sky Alqueva | “Responsible Tourism Award in Europe 2023”

DouroAzul | “Best River Cruise Company in Europe 2023”

Dunas Douradas Beach Club | “Best Resort Villas in Europe 2023”, “Best Resort Villas in Portugal 2023”

Lisbon Cruise Port | “Best Cruise Port in Europe 2023”

Madeira Promotion Bureau | “Best Island Destination in Europe 2023”

Monte Santo Resort | “Most Romantic Resort in Europe 2023”, “Best Residence Hotel in Portugal 2023”

Pestana Palace Lisbon | “Best Luxury Business Hotel in Europe 2023”, “Best Business Hotel in Portugal 2023”

Pestana Porto Santo All Inclusive | “Best All-Inclusive Resort in Europe 2023”

Porto Tourism | “Best Destination for City Break in Europe 2023”

Lisbon Tourism | “Best City Destination in Europe 2023”

Vale do Lobo | “Best Lifestyle Resort in Europe 2023”

Paiva Walkways (Arouca UNESCO Global Geopark) | “Best Adventure Tourist Attraction in Europe 2023”

Quake – Lisbon Earthquake Centre | “Best New Tourist Attraction in Europe 2023”

Portugal once again stands out on the international tourism scene, consolidating its position as a leader in several categories. This success is due not only to the country’s stunning natural beauty, but also to its rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine and the warm hospitality of the Portuguese people. From the historic cities of Lisbon and Porto to the beautiful beaches of the Algarve and the vineyards of the Douro, Portugal offers a diversity of experiences that continues to delight travellers from all over the world.

Once you’ve reached this prestigious level of tourist destination, according to the WTA’s strict criteria, you should at least try to maintain it!

This can only be achieved through a government policy that controls and preserves the competitiveness that has already been achieved, combating price speculation and ensuring quality in the training of people who will serve in the delicate areas of hospitality and catering.

João Cardoso

Communication Department

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