Madeira has been named the world’s number one Trending Destination for 2026 in the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards*, leading the global ranking ahead of other exciting destinations including Quy Nhon in Vietnam, Recife in Brazil and Puerto Escondido in Mexico.
*All details correct at time of publish (16 January 2026)
The awards reflect 12 months of consistently strong traveller reviews submitted to TripAdvisor in 2025, with the island recognised for the quality and quantity of visitor feedback across hotels, attractions, restaurants, experiences, tours and family-friendly experiences.
TripAdvisor’s findings say that the biggest draws are its beautiful architecture and year-round mild climate, alongside its dramatic scenery and outdoor lifestyle.
This recognition comes as the island becomes more accessible than ever for UK travellers, with a 17% increase in flight capacity between March 2025 and March 2026.
While London remains a major hub – with services from Gatwick, Luton and Stansted accounting for more than half of weekly departures – regional connectivity continues to expand.
Travellers can now fly from Belfast, Birmingham, Bournemouth, Bristol, East Midlands, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester and Newcastle, ensuring Madeira is within easy reach nationwide, not just from the capital.
Madeira offers travellers an extraordinary natural and cultural experience. Known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, deep valleys and soaring mountains, the island is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with miles of coastal, mountain and levada trails winding through its lush interior.
Visitors can also enjoy whale and dolphin watching, golden beaches on neighbouring Porto Santo, world-class gastronomy and a thriving wine culture.
Beyond its natural beauty, Madeira also offers a varied cultural calendar throughout the year, with standout moments including Carnival in February, the Atlantic Festival in early summer, the Madeira Wine Festival in September and the renowned New Year’s Eve fireworks.
* TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards are based on global traveller reviews posted on the platform between January and December 2025. More information is available here.
For more information on things to see and do in Madeira, visit: https://visitmadeira.com/en/
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