A new European island ranking has put Spain firmly in the spotlight for 2026. The study, published by Saga, analysed 80 island destinations across Europe, assessing them on weather, green space, and food and drink availability.
The results show Spain leading in several major categories, particularly for overall performance and sunny weather.
Spain takes the top spot in Europe’s overall island ranking
Spain secured first place overall in the Saga research, with Tenerife ranked as Europe’s best island destination, scoring 95 out of 100. Its highest scoring metric was sunshine.
Close behind, La Palma ranked second with 94 out of 100. This lesser-known Spanish island, often referred to locally as La Isla Bonita, is designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, reflecting its rich natural environment and sustainable development focus.
Islands across Spain, Croatia and Portugal rounded out the top 10, all receiving strong scores for sunshine, greenery and food.
Spain leads Europe for sunny weather and reliable winter sun
Spain’s presence is even more striking in the weather category. According to the SAGA research, the top three islands in Europe for sunny weather are all in Spain.
- Tenerife ranked first for weather with a score of 88/100
La Gomera ranked second.
It is the second-smallest of the Canary Islands, measuring barely 20 kilometres from north to south, and features black-sand beaches and diving reefs.
- Gran Canaria ranked third with 85/100
The study highlights the Canary Islands as a destination offering reliable sunshine and warmth. Spain’s islands are also strong options for winter sun as well as summer holidays.
The Canary Islands named Europe’s best all-round archipelago
The research also assessed island groups. For travellers considering visiting more than one island, the Canary Islands were ranked the best all-round archipelago, with an average score of 76/100.
The study describes the archipelago as offering:
- Beaches
- Fishing villages
- Natural landscapes
- Cultural attractions
In addition, the Canary Islands were highlighted again as the leading choice for reliable sunshine and warm weather. An island road trip is a great way to enjoy the great weather and explore the scenery.
How the Saga island ranking was calculated
The methodology behind Saga's research is clearly defined.
- 80 island destinations were analysed
- The focus was on major European archipelagos and popular destinations for UK travellers
The final scores were based on three main criteria:
- Weather: including sunshine, rainfall, wind and temperature comfort
- Food and drink availability: number of restaurants, cafés and bars, adjusted for island size
- Green space: amount and share of the island covered by green areas
For international travellers weighing up island options across Europe, Spain’s Atlantic islands — particularly those in the Canary Islands — emerge as the strongest performers in this comparative 2026 survey.
- Property for sale in the Canary Islands
- Long-term rentals in the Canary Islands
- Holiday rentals in the Canary Islands
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