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There are an estimated 11,000 inhabited islands dotting the world’s oceans, lakes, and seas—ranging from Scandinavia’s rugged glacier-carved archipelagos to the lush volcanic chains of Hawaii and the western Pacific.
For travelers, the very best islands to visit are idyllic enclaves where time slows and worries disappear, all stressors abandoned on the mainland. With diverse scenery spanning temperate beaches, tucked-away turquoise coves, lush rainforests, and scenic mountaintops, there’s an island for every type of traveler, every month of the year.
Below, we’ve curated the best islands to visit according to Condé Nast Traveler readers, who vote for their favorite destinations, hotels, cruises, and more during our annual Readers’ Choice Awards (stay tuned, the 2026 results will be revealed in October). Whether you want to sunbathe, snorkel, whale watch, or hike, these 11 islands promise nothing less than paradise.
Crete, Greece
With stretches of olive groves and rolling countryside overlooking the vast Aegean Sea, there’s no wondering why Crete was voted the best island in Europe by our readers. To experience Cretan lifestyle at its most laidback, consider staying in Kissamos on Chania’s northwest coast, where you can free dive off the shore, traverse coastal walkways, and sample the famous Med diet by way of mezedes and fresh seafood. Take a ferry to Balos Lagoon and wade in its shallow waters, or explore Falassarna’s pink-flecked sands. Though most flights to Greece’s largest isle connect in Athens, travelers may also opt for a seasonal summer ferry from Santorini or year-round ferry from Piraeus.
Where to stay in Crete:
