Europe's best beach has been crowned, and it lies on Greece's most affordable island. With over 6,000 islands and a mainland larger than England, Greece boasts an abundance of coastline. Yet only one beach has earned the title of 'best in Europe' for 2026.
Fteri Beach Takes Top Honors
Fteri Beach, located on the Paliki Peninsula of Kefalonia, has secured the number one spot on the 2026 list of the Best Beaches in Europe. Often hailed as Greece's best-kept secret, Fteri outperformed renowned contenders such as Porto Katsiki (5th), Porto Timoni (9th), and Voutomi Beach (22nd). The awards, part of the annual World's 50 Best Beaches, are determined by over 1,000 travel experts, some of whom have visited every country globally. Beaches are evaluated on criteria including uniqueness, wildlife, natural state, ambient sounds, ease of water entry, crowding, and the potential for a 'perfect beach day.'
What Makes Fteri Special
Judges praised Fteri's 'crystal clear turquoise waters' and the 'majestic' white cliffs framing its pebble beach. Access requires a boat ride or a steep 40-minute hike, with signs guiding the way. Sneakers are recommended over flip-flops. Alternatively, visitors can take a Fteri Water Taxi from Zola Harbour. To avoid crowds, especially in summer, arriving early morning is advised. The beach has no amenities, so bringing sunscreen, water, snacks, and towels is essential.
Kefalonia: Greece's Cheapest Island
Beyond its award-winning beach, Kefalonia has been named Greece's cheapest island by TravelSupermarket. Research shows a week-long trip to Kefalonia averages £596 per person (September 2025 to March 2026), compared to £768 for Crete and £822 for Corfu. Also known as Cephalonia, the island is named after Kephalos, its first king during the Paleolithic era. Just a 3.5-hour flight from the UK, it is the largest Ionian Island, featuring emerald mountains, secluded coves, and a population of only 36,000. Often compared to the Caribbean, it is growing in popularity among travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Rising Popularity and Accessibility
Content creator Ben Johns told Metro: 'I went with no expectations, and after five days, I fell in love.' In 2023, Kefalonia was also named the best Greek island by consumer champion Which?. Jet2 announced it would launch flights from London Gatwick to Kefalonia for the first time in 2026, making now an ideal time to visit. While June and July are busy, tourists visiting in April and May can enjoy sunshine and tranquility.
