December 9, 2024, 5:48 am | Read time: 4 minutes
The UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has selected the best tourism villages of 2024. This year, 55 villages from all regions of the world were awarded the recognition. TRAVELBOOK reveals which villages made it onto the UNWTO list.
The Best Villages Award is the flagship of the UNWTO “Tourism for Rural Development” program, which was launched in 2021. The aim of this program is to protect and sustainably promote rural destinations. “Tourism has proven to be a source of livelihood for many rural communities, but its true potential has yet to be fully realized,” emphasized UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili in a press release. The initiative honors communities that have successfully used tourism as a driver for their development and prosperity.
Overview
260 Applications for the Best Villages
In the fourth edition, the 55 villages from different regions were selected from over 260 applications. Sixty member states of the UN tourism organization made submissions. The award recognizes villages that are outstanding examples of rural tourism destinations with recognized cultural and natural assets that preserve and promote rural values, products, and lifestyles, and that have a clear commitment to innovation and sustainability.
In addition to greater recognition, the awarded villages benefit from worldwide media campaigns initiated by the UN tourism organization. The award also provides them with increased visibility and helps them to position themselves more strongly in the international tourism industry. The country with the most awarded villages this year is China. A total of seven villages, namely Azheke, Guanyang, Shibadong, Taoping, Xiaogang, Xitou, and Yandunjiao, have made it onto the list.
Three of the Best Villages in 2024
Pissouri, Cyprus
The charming and traditional village of Pissouri on the south coast of Cyprus is one of the best villages in the world in 2024. It is best known for its authentic atmosphere, stunning location, and tranquil beaches. With its picturesque views of the sea and the surrounding countryside, it is an ideal place for hiking and enjoying nature. The village retains its rural character with narrow streets and white houses, while historical sites, such as the ruins of Kourion and wineries, can be found in the surrounding area. Pissouri is perfect for travelers who want to experience Cyprus away from mass tourism.
Mura, Spain
Mura in Spain has a rich history dating back to the year 978. The Catalan village is characterized by its well-preserved medieval architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and historic buildings, which give the village a unique charm. Nestled in the Sant Llorenç del Munt i l’Obac Natural Park, Mura offers impressive views of the surrounding mountain landscape and is a popular destination for hikes. With its traditional atmosphere, long history, and the hospitality of the locals, the village conveys an authentic impression of Catalan life and culture. No wonder it was chosen as one of the best villages for a vacation.
Óbidos, Portugal
The picturesque village of Óbidos in Portugal is particularly known for its imposing city wall and impressive castle. The narrow streets, white houses and historic buildings give the town a unique charm. Óbidos is also famous for traditional festivals such as the “Óbidos Medieval Festival” and the specialty “Ginja de Óbidos”, a cherry liqueur. Surrounded by an idyllic landscape of hills and vineyards, Óbidos offers a perfect blend of history, culture, art, and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for travelers.
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Complete List of the Best Villages 2024, According to UNWTO
- Abo Noghta Castles & Historic Tabab, Saudi Arabia
- Abu Ghosoun, Egypt
- Aínsa, Spain
- Amagi, Japan
- Anogeia, Greece
- Azheke, China
- Bo Suak, Thailand
- Capulálpam de Méndez, Mexico
- Caviahue-Copahue, Argentina
- Cuatro Ciénegas de Carranza, Mexico
- El Tambo, Ecuador
- El Valle de Antón, Panama
- Esfahak, Iran
- Gaiman, Argentina
- Gharb Suhayl, Egypt
- Grand Baie, Mauritius
- Guanyang, China
- Huancaya, Peru
- Jardín, Colombia
- Jatiluwih, Indonesia
- Kalopanagiotis, Cyprus
- Leymebamba, Peru
- Mindo, Ecuador
- Mura, Spain
- Nishikawa, Japan
- Óbidos, Portugal
- Ormana, Turkey
- Palizada, Mexico
- Pissouri, Cyprus
- Portobelo, Panama
- Pueblo de Maras, Peru
- Quinua, Peru
- Ralco, Chile
- Roches Noires, Mauritius
- Romoos, Switzerland
- Ruboni, Uganda
- San Casciano dei Bagni, Italy
- San Juan del Obispo, Guatemala
- San Rafael de la Laguna, Ecuador
- Santa Cruz da Graciosa, Portugal
- Shibadong, China
- Sibayo, Peru
- Splügen, Switzerland
- St. Johann in Tirol, Austria
- Taoping, China
- Tra Que Vegetable Village, Vietnam
- Trevelin, Argentina
- Uaxactún, Guatemala
- Urych, Ukraine
- Villa Tulumba, Argentina
- Vorokhta, Ukraine
- Wukirsari, Indonesia
- Xiaogang, China
- Xitou, China
- Yandunjiao, China