Published on
October 23, 2025
By: Tuhin Sarkar
The World Travel Awards Europe 2025 lit up Sardinia, Italy, as the finest names in the travel and tourism industry gathered to celebrate excellence. The glamorous ceremony at Forte Village Resort brought together Europe’s leading destinations, hotels, airlines, and innovators for a night of pride and prestige. The event recognised those shaping the future of travel, marking another powerful milestone in the tourism industry’s evolution. With its Mediterranean charm and luxury setting, Sardinia proved the perfect host for this unforgettable celebration of global tourism excellence.
The star-studded night honoured Europe’s top travel brands, redefining standards across the tourism industry. The event marked the fourth leg of the WTA’s Grand Tour 2025, which continues to spotlight the world’s best destinations and travel organisations. Portugal claimed the grand title of Europe’s Leading Destination, while Madeira shone as Europe’s Leading Island Destination. Spain’s Huesca La Magia won Europe’s Leading Adventure Tourism Destination, and Greece’s Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace triumphed as Europe’s Leading Emerging Tourism Destination. Each win reflected the strength and innovation of Europe’s travel sector.
The excitement continued with more major wins for the continent’s most iconic destinations. Cannes secured the title of Europe’s Leading Festival & Event Destination, while Madrid emerged victorious as Europe’s Leading Meetings & Conference Destination. Batumi, Georgia, celebrated a major win as Europe’s Leading All-Season Destination. Dublin achieved double success, with Trinity College named Europe’s Leading Academic Tourist Attraction and The Convention Centre recognised as Europe’s Leading Meetings & Conference Centre. These victories reaffirmed Europe’s dominance as a global hub for both leisure and business travel.
Graham Cooke, Founder of the World Travel Awards, praised the event and its winners. “It has been a privilege to host our Europe Gala Ceremony 2025 in beautiful Sardinia. Our winners are stellar examples of tourism excellence and continue to raise the benchmark for the travel industry,” he said. His remarks captured the spirit of collaboration and ambition that defines the global tourism community. The event not only celebrated achievement but also inspired future leaders of the travel industry to keep innovating and evolving.
Sardinia’s charm was the perfect backdrop for this celebration of excellence. With its turquoise waters, ancient culture, and stunning landscapes, the island captured the essence of Mediterranean luxury. The Forte Village Resort, with its world-class facilities and Michelin-starred restaurants, showcased Italian hospitality at its finest. The location amplified the glamour of the awards, giving travel and tourism professionals from across Europe a taste of authentic Sardinian elegance. The island’s tourism industry also benefited, as the global spotlight boosted its profile as a world-class travel destination.
Lorenzo Giannuzzi, CEO and General Manager of Forte Village, expressed pride and gratitude in hosting the event. “We are honoured to have welcomed the World Travel Awards to Sardinia. It was a chance to showcase our vision of authentic Italian hospitality and innovation,” he said. His words highlighted Italy’s leadership in the global tourism industry and its ongoing commitment to excellence. The evening also demonstrated how events like the WTA inspire unity among travel professionals and drive new ideas within the hospitality sector.
In the hospitality category, Europe’s finest hotels and resorts took centre stage. The Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul was crowned Europe’s Leading Hotel, symbolising timeless luxury. Greece’s Sani Resort took home Europe’s Leading Family Resort, while Ikos Odisia earned the title of Europe’s Leading All-Inclusive Resort. Kaizen Hoteles was honoured as Europe’s Leading Independent Hotel Group, and Italy’s Naturhotel Leitlhof claimed Europe’s Leading Green Hotel for its commitment to sustainability. These winners showcased how innovation, quality, and eco-conscious values are shaping the future of the travel and tourism industry.
The aviation industry also soared to new heights at the ceremony. Lufthansa was named Europe’s Leading Airline, continuing its legacy of excellence. Zurich Airport triumphed as Europe’s Leading Airport, a recognition of its efficiency and traveller satisfaction. Swiss International Air Lines achieved a rare double victory, winning Europe’s Leading Airline for both Business Class and First Class. THE LOFT by Brussels Airlines and Lexus took home Europe’s Leading Airport Lounge, redefining luxury in air travel. These awards reinforced how Europe’s aviation leaders continue to set global standards for comfort, connectivity, and service.
The ceremony’s success was not just about awards but about the spirit of travel itself. Every win told a story of innovation, resilience, and dedication to travellers’ experiences. The event demonstrated that Europe’s tourism industry remains at the forefront of global progress. From sustainability to digital transformation, the travel sector is evolving to meet modern expectations. The 2025 awards proved that the tourism industry’s future is bright, with technology and creativity driving its next chapter.
Sardinia’s moment in the spotlight also reminded the world why travel matters. Beyond luxury and leisure, tourism connects cultures and fosters understanding. The World Travel Awards Europe 2025 celebrated more than just destinations — it celebrated people, passion, and the power of discovery. The travel industry continues to thrive because of its ability to bring the world closer together through unforgettable trips and shared experiences.
The World Travel Awards Europe 2025 set a new benchmark for global tourism recognition. It showcased Europe’s leadership in hospitality, aviation, and destination excellence. Sardinia’s hosting of the event reflected Italy’s growing influence as a global travel icon. The winners, from Portugal to Greece, from Dublin to Batumi, symbolised the creativity and commitment that drive the tourism industry forward. As the global travel community looks to the future, Sardinia’s glittering night will be remembered as a celebration of excellence, unity, and the enduring magic of travel.
