With a heatwave hitting Europe this week, we’re sure many of you are fantasising about heading to the beach right now.
Great timing then for European Best Destinations to unveil its ranking of the top sandy stretches on the continent for 2026.
Released annually, the editorial team longlists 10 beaches per country which are evaluated based on factors like natural beauty, accessibility, beach services and overall atmosphere.
Whittled down to a shortlist of just 30 beaches, these are then submitted to an international panel of travellers who determine the final ranking.
This year, the top spot went to Praia de Monte Clérigo in Portugal.
What’s so special about Monte Clérigo beach?
Located on the Costa Vicentina in the country’s south-western tip, Monte Clérigo was chosen by European Best Destinations as it appeals to those looking for “authenticity, nature and understated luxury far from overcrowded resorts”.
On the nature side of things, the beach is part of the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park so there are plenty of hiking routes around for when you want to mix up your holiday.
The ranking also takes into account accessibility, and according to European Beach Destinations, accommodation here is up to three times lower than better known spots in Portugal.
Other top beaches in Europe
Second place in the ranking went to Voutoumi Beach on the northeastern coast of Antipaxos in Greece.
Thanks to its fine white pebbles, crystal clear waters and surrounding green hills, Voutoumi was also named the most beautiful beach in Europe.
Third and fourth place also went to two Greek destinations: Fteri Beach on Kefalonia, and Elafonisi Beach in Crete.
Italy rounded out the top five with Bogliasco Beach, located in a picturesque fishing village near Genoa.
No surprises here that Spain also made it onto the list, with Cala Mesquida in Mallorca in sixth.
In contrast, Norway isn’t traditionally known as a beach destination, but that didn’t stop Kvalvika Beach on the island of Moskenesøya in the Lofoten archipelago making the cut. Taking seventh place, European Best Destinations noted that the remote beach is only accessible by hiking, contributing to its secluded and pristine environment.
We’re back to Greece for number eight: Rovinia Beach in Corfu.
Turkey’s Kaputaş Beach, which was also included in the World’s 50 Best Beaches ranking back in April, came out in ninth place.
Last but not least, Corfu’s Paleokastritsa Beach came in 10th overall.