For the second year in a row, Monaco has secured a podium finish in European Best Destinations’ rankings, earning the accolade of being the “must-see European destination of 2025”.
European Best Destinations (EBD), a website that has been promoting European hotspots to millions of travellers, tourism professionals and travel media since 2009, has awarded Monaco the top spot as its 2025 Must-See Destination of the Year category.
This prestigious recognition was awarded through the votes of 1.2 million people from 158 different countries, with nearly 10% selecting Monaco as the best destination in Europe. It marks the first time since Bordeaux in 2015 that a French-speaking city has taken the top position. In addition to Monaco’s success, two nearby French towns also made it into the Top 20 this year: Èze in 15th place and Cassis in 18th.
Following Monaco, Riga was named the second-best destination, while Dubrovnik secured third place. Madrid and Belgium’s Namur rounded out the top five.
HOW IT WORKS
To be in the running for a European Best Destination award, cities and destinations must be nominated by tourism offices, local governments or travel associations. The EBD team then evaluates the proposals based on criteria such as tourist appeal, quality of life, cultural attractions, sustainability efforts and visitor satisfaction.
Shortlisted destinations are then put to a public online vote on the website. Voting remains open for several weeks, allowing global participation. Destinations are ranked according to the number of votes received.
“A DREAMLIKE EXPERIENCE”
In its appraisal of the Principality, EBD notes, “This prestigious title highlights Monaco as a unique destination, setting the standard for high-quality travel experiences in Europe. A perfect blend of sustainability, luxury, culture, gastronomy, wellness, sport and year-round events, Monaco offers an exceptional experience for all travellers.”
The review graciously concludes, “Monaco is not just a destination—it’s a dreamlike experience that cannot be found anywhere else.”
The key question now is whether this award will translate into long-term tourism growth. EBD claims that “previous winners and destinations ranked in the Top 10 have reported tourism growth of up to 25%” following their presence in the rankings, though whether this will actually come to pass is yet to be determined.
Monaco’s Tourism and Congress Directorate is currently conducting a survey in collaboration with IMSEE into the tourist experience in the Principality. The study, spanning the entirety of 2025, aims to better understand visitor demographics and preferences, with results expected in 2026.
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