Best beaches in the world are all in Europe: Portugal, Italy and Spain named traveller favourites

In a world where sustainability and natural beauty increasingly dominate travellers' choices, Portugal's Praia da Falésia emerges as the crown jewel, topping Tripadvisor's prestigious Best of the Best Beaches list for 2024.

This impressive stretch of white sand and colourful cliffs was noted as "best for scenic walks and sunbathing" and is up from number six in 2023.

Europe prevailed in the other top spots, with Italy's Spiaggia dei Conigli in Lampedusa at number two and Spain's La Concha Beach in San Sebastian in number three.

All three were recommended for spring trips.

Praia da Falésia, located in the heart of the Algarve region, captured the coveted number one spot, enchanting visitors with its picturesque blend of white sands and dramatic, orange-coloured cliffs kissed by the Atlantic Ocean.

What sets Praia da Falésia apart is its pristine shoreline and commitment to sustainability. The nature park adjoining the beach protects its spotless condition, offering a sanctuary for local flora and fauna.

One of the most extensive beaches in the Algarve is the list-topping Praia da Falésia, which stretches almost six kilometres.

It extends to Albufeira's Olhos d'Água neighbourhood in the west and shares borders with the resort town of Vilamoura to the east. Though it’s essentially the same beach, the narrower western end is known by a different name, Praia do Barranco das Belharucas.

While Praia da Falésia is located in the more touristy part of the Algarve, the beach remains largely untouched, with little development directly on its sandy shores and fragile clay cliffs.

Further from the beach, there are several resorts, hotels and beach clubs, including Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort, The Residences at Victoria and Domes Lake