20 selected towns competed for the prestigious title of Best European Destination 2014. After a three weeks’ period of online voting Porto is elected the Best European Destination 2014 and won the title ahead of 19 big european cities.

Zagreb, Vienna, Nicosia, Budapest, Madeira Islands, Milan, Madrid, Berlin and Rome are the next best destinations for a holiday or city-trip in 2014.

We thank all the participants from Tourism Offices, community managers of social networks and voters who have made their choice and influenced the result !

Porto is exceptional. In more ways than one. Elected Best European Destination 2014 by the european citizens, Porto, the "Cidade Invicta" (unvanquished city) is history, is architecture, culture, gastronomy, trade, encounters and discoveries.

Porto has all the charm of towns which happily cohabit with their river. You can stroll along the River Douro (river of gold) in the Ribeira, fly over it by helicopter or discover Porto ‘s architecture, its amazing landscapes and magnificent bridges by taking a cruise on this majestic river. Porto is also a sea city and in the briefest of time a tram will bring you to Foz do Douro’s gentle beaches face to face with the Atlantic.

Porto knows how to make you feel welcome; very likely it will conquer your heart and leave a long lasting impression. You will find it hard to leave.

2. Zagreb

Croatia

The impressions of many foreigners who live in Zagreb, business people and tourists can be summed up in a single sentence : a large city which managed to stay romantic and safe. There are unlimited possibilities for visiting music and theatre events, art exhibitions, museums, sporting events and enjoying pleasant walks, interesting architecture, plentiful parks in the centre of the city, pedestrian zones and the atmosphere.

3. Vienna

Austria

Nowhere is "The Art of Enjoyment" mastered so well as it is in Vienna. And especially in 2015: Dance and party like during the time of the Congress of Vienna at one of the traditional or modern Viennese balls. Viennese nightlife, with its hip clubs, young festivals and a reopened ballroom, invites you to dance and party in 2015. Vienna's nightlife, with its club culture that is as diverse and lively as never before, is proof that people like to dance not only at balls.

Nicosia

Cyprus

For the lovers of the Mediterranean the island of Cyprus is an absolute must. The legendary birthplace of Aphrodite is famed for its spectacular beaches, its breathtaking sceneries and the warmth of its people. It offers the visitor a large selection of unique activities that can fulfill almost any wish. Colorful orange groves surround stunning ancient ruins, steep cliffs embrace idyllic coves with turquoise waters and shady pine covered mountains are brought to life with the sounds of the church bells.

5. Budapest

Hungary

Budapest is a city of full of surprises and wonder, with its lively centre, pretty parks, majestic river, tall church spires and lavish spas. One of the most exciting cities in the world. Budapest is full of secrets to uncover, hidden spots to explore and old favourites to revisit. This is the city where being bored is not an option. When you're done with the must-sees, leave the main streets behind, and let the city unfold its secrets. Plenty of design shops, tiny parks, terraced cafés, and architectural treasures wait in the nooks and crannies.

6. Madeira

Portugal

In addition to its stunning scenery and luxuriant mountains, this archipelago offers a mild climate all year round, a warm welcome, peace, safety and security which all together make your holidays unforgettable.

To really get to know Madeira, climb to the top of a mountain and enjoy fantastic, breathtaking views or follow the trails and paths in the Laurissilva Forest along more than 1,400 km of Levadas, in a unique encounter with the island’s soul.

7. Milan

Italy

Milan has been interesting and vibrant at least since it was the capital of the western half of the Roman Empire. It was one of the most glorious of the Italian Comuni during the Middle Ages. Milan is the hub of Italian culture, music, media and sports. With so many things to do and see, take the time to simply enjoy yourself – relax and sip an aperitivo while you consider your options for dinner. Milan provides an overwhelming dining experience, as all Italian regional cuisines are richly represented, along with many others from the rest of the world.

8. Madrid

Spain

Madrid is an open-minded city where culture and entertainment share a thriving space. The Spanish capital makes everyone feel right at home while providing them with some of the world’s most interesting tourist attractions.

Madrid is one of the world’s liveliest, most entertaining and vibrant cities during the day, but even more so at night. The Spanish capital does not only offer art, shopping, nightlife and excellent gastronomy but it also presents both visitors and locals with all imaginable options for leisure.

9. Berlin

Germany

Steeped in its evocative history and the rapid changes that have taken place over the past two decades, Berlin today exerts its own particular fascination.

More than twenty years after the fall of the Berlin Wall and the reunification of Germany, the capital projects itself as a young, dynamic and cosmopolitan city at the heart of Europe which is constantly re-inventing itself. Variety is guaranteed, but you can also travel to the German capital for rest and relaxation. In Berlin a fast paced metropolis and relaxing rest areas in nature are not far apart.

10. Rome

Italy

The province of Rome is a matching frame for the many treasures of the capital, and the surrounding area has, more or less directly, experienced the influence of the history of the Eternal City. A region with a great deal to offer: sea, nature, good food and villages rich in history and art. The sea, the hills, lakes, rivers and vineyards: the surroundings of Rome offer a kaleidoscope of diversity and attractions for nature lovers.