Best Tourism Villages 2026
The Secretariat of the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) has announced the launch of the sixth edition of the global initiative "Best Tourism Villages 2026," which officially kicked off on February 27, 2026, as part of the Rural Development Program.
This project aims to promote tourism as a tool for positive transformation and community well-being, helping to preserve unique rural landscapes, cultural diversity, local values, and traditional activities—ranging from agriculture to authentic gastronomy.
Key Deadlines and Selection Process
- Global Deadline: Each country may submit up to eight applications by June 9, 2026.
- National Deadline (Ukraine): The State Agency for Tourism Development (SATD) will accept applications from potential participants until April 19, 2026.
Candidates from Ukraine will be selected by a specially formed commission of independent experts at SATD, who will evaluate applications according to UN Tourism requirements. Selected Ukrainian participants will then be submitted to the independent external Advisory Board of UN Tourism, composed of experts from various fields. They will assess applications based on the three pillars of sustainable development: economy, social sphere, and environment.
Upcoming Webinar
This Friday, March 20, at 11:00 AM, SATD will host a special webinar for potential contest participants. Previous winners—representatives from the villages of Urych and Kolochava—will be invited to provide detailed insights on the application process, what to consider, and which details require the most attention.
- Webinar Link (Zoom): https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87508678327...
- Detailed Information: Visit the official initiative website at https://www.untourism.int/best-tourism-villages-2026
The final selection results and the announcement of the winners for the Best Tourism Villages 2026 status are scheduled for the last quarter of the year.
Flashback: Ukraine's Previous Successes
- 2025: Winners included Kolochava and Synevyrska Polyana, with Kryvorivnia reaching the finals.
- 2024: Urych and Vorokhta were recognized among the world's best villages.
