It isn’t really news to any repeat visitor to Greece, or to those who followed the development of tourism during and following the pandemic, that Greek destinations continue to rank as some of the best places in the world for a vacation. The year 2022 will be a new benchmark for tourism according to the president of the Greek National Tourism Organization, and the country’s cities, islands, and hotels continue to stack up awards. The latest accolades come from the respected Condé Nast Readers’ Choice Awards, presented this week, where the country stands out in two categories: best country, and best islands.

This year, Greece places as the world’s sixth-best country to travel to. Europe dominates that list, featuring 48 countries overall, and Greece is the second European country on the list, after Portugal, which earned first place. In addition, the Greek islands dominate the list of Europe’s best islands, with three in the top ten.

Placing second on the list, after Ibiza, is Crete. The country’s largest island is described as “one of the most distinctive, with its own unmistakable culture, landscape, cuisine, and mythological history.” Noted as a “pro tip,” the Condé Nast editors suggest skipping the long drive and hike to get to the popular Balos beach, and instead taking a ferry there from Kissamos.

Mythology is also unexpectedly noted as a reason to visit Mykonos – an island that owes most of its huge success in tourism to its party scene. Rather than going there in July or August, the list suggests, one should try to avoid the crowds and get in touch with the local life. Mykonos places as the fifth-best island in Europe.

Santorini places eighth. Possibly the most Instagrammable island in Greece (and the world), the list notes that while “you won’t have much space to yourself, the ease of access and plethora of dining and entertainment on the island mean boredom is never an option,” and recommends a visit to the Museum of Prehistoric Thira, for when you need a day out of the sun.

Find our guides to Crete here, Mykonos here, and Santorini here.