Photos: Monaco and two French Mediterranean jewels named as Best European Destinations
The three French-speaking destinations appeared in the 2025 top 20 rankings
The principality of Monaco came in first place in the new ranking, followed by Èze in 15th, and Cassis in 18thBruna Monte / FredP / Robert Harding Video / Shutterstock
Monaco has been named the ‘Best European Destination’ by a European Commission tourist organisation, with the nearby village of Èze in 15th place, and the town of Cassis in 18th.
Monaco, which is situated between Nice in France and the Italian border, is on the Mediterranean coast and came in first place in the list of 20 destinations.
The principality won for its “perfect blend of sustainability, luxury, culture, gastronomy, well-being, sport and events throughout the year”.
It is the first French-speaking destination to top the annual ranking since Bordeaux in 2015, said the Monegasque government in a press release to celebrate the win.
Monaco élue Meilleure Destination Européenne 2025
La Principauté de Monaco vient d’être désignée Meilleure Destination Européenne 2025 par European Best Destinations, un organisme de promotion touristique de référence, partenaire de la Commission Européenne.
Just a few kilometers away - still on the Mediterranean coast - the village of Èze also made the top 20 (in 15th place). Dating back to the medieval period, the village is known for its exotic garden, and expansive sea views.
Cassis (Bouches-du-Rhône)
The town of CassisRobert Harding Video/Shutterstock
The town of Cassis (Bouches-du-Rhône) - which is also on the Mediterranean and near to the Calanques National Park - came in 18th place.
Other winners
(L to R) Riga, Latvia; and Dubrovnik and Cavtat in Croatia came in second and third place, after MonacoMarinaDa / Jerome LABOUYRIE / Michael Warwick / Shutterstock
The podium also included:
Ad
Riga, Latvia, in second place
Dubrovnik and Cavtat, along the Croatian Adriatic coast, in third place
Some capitals and major cities appear on the list - including Madrid and Seville in Spain, Lisbon in Portugal, Istanbul in Turkey, and Bath in England.
However, there are also lesser-known destinations including Ålesund in Norway, Antipaxos in Greece, and Dhermi in Albania.
The ranking also includes (L to R) Ålesund in Norway, Antipaxos in Greece, and Dhermi in AlbaniaJoan Vadell / Aerial-motion / Smulan / Shutterstock
