UN Tourism opens applications for Best Tourism Villages 2026 - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

UN Tourism has launched the call for applications for the Best Tourism Villages 2026 initiative, continuing its effort to recognise outstanding rural destinations worldwide. Since its launch in 2021, the programme has attracted more than 1,000 applications from 100 countries and has grown into a global network of 319 rural destinations.

The network currently includes more than 230 villages recognised as Best Tourism Villages and 83 participating in the Upgrade Programme, representing 65 countries across five regions: Africa, the Americas, Asia-Pacific, Europe and the Middle East.

UN Tourism Secretary-General Shaikha Al Nuwais said: “Tourism is a proven game changer for rural communities. And with our Best Tourism Villages we are showcasing the very best examples, where it’s keeping traditions alive, supporting small businesses or preserving nature. Now we want to expand our network and give tourists even more chances to enjoy authentic experiences and make a real difference when they travel.”

Applications open until June

UN Tourism Member States are invited to submit up to eight candidate villages through their respective National Tourism Administrations. Applications will close on 9 June 2026. The villages selected as Best Tourism Villages 2026 will be announced in the third quarter of the year during an official UN Tourism event.

An independent Advisory Board of global experts will evaluate submissions based on criteria covering sustainability, governance, cultural and natural heritage, infrastructure and community wellbeing.

Tourism as a driver of rural development

The Best Tourism Villages initiative forms part of UN Tourism’s Tourism for Rural Development Programme. It aims to position tourism as a catalyst for rural prosperity, resilience and wellbeing, while promoting the protection of landscapes, cultural diversity and traditional knowledge systems. The programme supports tourism models aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals.

The initiative is built around three pillars.

Recognition as Best Tourism Village

This designation is awarded to rural destinations that demonstrate excellence in safeguarding cultural and natural heritage, strengthening community-based values and advancing sustainability. Villages are assessed across nine areas spanning economic, social and environmental dimensions.

Upgrade Programme

Villages that do not yet meet all recognition criteria may join the Upgrade Programme. Participants receive tailored guidance and technical support to address identified gaps and enhance their tourism development strategies.

Best Tourism Villages Network

The network brings together recognised villages and those in the Upgrade Programme. It serves as a collaborative platform for knowledge exchange, peer learning, partnerships and capacity-building across regions and sectors.

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