A quiet Portuguese paradise boasting miles of golden sands has been crowned Europe’s top trending spot for 2026, leading a major new ranking of crowd-free island getaways. Travel giant Expedia has released its annual Island Hot List, highlighting the world’s top trending island destinations based on search volume surge and traveller demand.
Taking the top spot in Europe – and placing second globally only behind the Caribbean’s St Lucia – is Porto Santo, a tranquil island in Portugal’s Madeira archipelago. Searches for the island skyrocketed by an incredible 85%, marking the largest jump of any destination on the list. Known for its six-mile stretch of soft golden sand and warm waters, Porto Santo offers a peaceful alternative to busier European hot spots like Majorca, making it a hit for sunseekers craving relaxation without the heavy foot traffic.
While Porto Santo stole the spotlight for raw popularity growth, the Greek island of Syros was celebrated as the ultimate pick for cuisine and charm. Ranking fourth overall in the world, Syros saw a 60% surge in searches as holidaymakers look for authentic Aegean experiences away from the massive crowds of neighbouring Santorini and Mykonos.
The island’s capital, Ermoupoli, is famous for its grand Venetian mansions and marble-paved plazas, while the hilltop village of Ano Syros offers medieval stone streets and panoramic views. Foodies flock to local tavernas for fresh seafood and loukoumi – a local Turkish delight style confection flavoured with rose, bergamot and mastic.
Norway’s dramatic Lofoten Islands rounded out Europe’s top three, praised for its Arctic fjords and prime Northern Lights viewing.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
