Portugal is still one of the hottest places on the planet to visit, according to the World Travel Awards (WTA) – the so-called ‘Oscars’ of the tourism industry.
At this year’s global gala, held in Bahrain, the country walked away with 12 awards, including two major titles for Algarve and Madeira. It’s a big haul, although eight prizes fewer than last year’s triumph in Madeira.
Sun-soaked Algarve once again proved unbeatable, being crowned World’s Best Beach Destination 2025 for the fourth time, a record no other beach destination has achieved, and beating other world-famous destinations like Thailand or Cancun.
“Becoming the only beach destination to receive this award four times is a special moment for the entire region,” Algarve tourism chief André Gomes said. “It is the reflection of a consistent and dedicated collective effort throughout the last few years. More than a victory, it is a clear confirmation that the Algarve is at the global frontline when it comes to beach destinations.”
The president of the region’s tourism board (RTA) and association (ATA) added that the Algarve will keep trying to “raise the bar” while preserving its natural resources and trying to “surpass the expectations” of those who chose the region year after year.
The Algarve scooped even more glory, with three local resorts winning international prizes: Vila Joya (Albufeira) was named World’s Leading Boutique Resort; Domes Lake Algarve (Vilamoura) was hailed World’s Leading Family Resort; and Dunas Douradas Beach Club (Almancil) won the title of World’s Leading Golf & Villa Resort.
Not to be outshined, Madeira held onto its crown as World’s Best Island Destination for the 11th year in a row. The Portuguese archipelago beat global heavyweights including Bali, Hawaii, Fiji and Tahiti. This run of victories proves that Madeira’s tourism is “versatile and authentic,” said the regional secretary of tourism, Eduardo Jesus.
In the midst of a privatisation, national airline TAP had something to celebrate too, renewing two major titles: Best Airline to Africa and Best Airline to South America.
Lisbon’s Olissippo Lapa Palace Hotel also kept its spot as World’s Leading Classic Hotel, while Portugal’s Amazing Evolution was voted Best Boutique Hotel Management Company.
Three Portuguese attractions also took home awards. The Paiva Walkways in Arouca were named World’s Best Adventure Tourist Attraction, while Dark Sky Alqueva in the Alentejo was hailed World’s Best Responsible Tourism Project and Parques de Sintra – Monte da Lua honoured as World’s Best Conservation Company for the 13th year running.
The full list of winners of the 2025 World edition can be found online.
The World Travel Awards were established in 1993 to “acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all key sectors of the travel, tourism and hospitality industries.”
