Move over, Santorini, there’s a new Greek favorite in town. Travel + Leisure has just revealed the results of its highly anticipated 2025 “World’s Best Awards,” and topping the list of the best islands on Earth is the stunning island of Páros, Greece.
Páros made a major leap in the rankings, jumping from No. 24 last year to claim the coveted No. 1 spot. Nearly 180,000 T+L readers cast over 657,000 votes in this year’s survey, rating their favorite islands on everything from natural beauty and beaches to food, hospitality, and overall vibe.
So what earned Páros the crown? According to readers, it’s the island’s delicious food, charming whitewashed villages with pops of blue, boutique shopping, and laid-back atmosphere that make it a standout. Visitors also love its world-class resorts like Parīlio, Cosme, and Summer Senses, all of which deliver luxury without the crowds.
While Páros stole the show, Palawan, Philippines took second place, wowing travelers with its limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and calm beaches. Bali, Indonesia claimed the third spot, celebrated for its temples, terraced rice paddies, and excellent culture.
Greece continued to dominate the list, with Crete and Milos also earning spots in the top 25. But this year, it’s Páros that’s officially the island to beat.
The best islands in the world: The full list
- Páros, Greece
- Palawan, Philippines
- Bali, Indonesia
- Ischia, Italy
- Fiji Islands
- Maldives
- Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
- Hvar and the Dalmatian Islands, Croatia
- Madeira, Portugal
- Mallorca, Spain
- Crete, Greece
- Phuket, Thailand
- Vancouver Island, British Columbia
- Koh Samui, Thailand
- Anguilla
- Milos, Greece
- Great Barrier Reef Islands, Australia
- Azores, Portugal (tie)
- Dominica (tie)
- Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia
- Maui, United States
- Sardinia, Italy
- Bora-Bora, French Polynesia
- St. Lucia
- Island of Hawaii, United States
