12 European Islands That Are Surprisingly Popular With American Tourists

When Americans plan a European vacation, destinations like Paris, Rome, and London usually come to mind. But some European Islands that have traditionally been popular with European vacationers are also attracting growing interest from U.S. travelers. According to HomeToGo’s summer travel report, islands like Crete, Lanzarote, and Menorca saw significant increases in accommodation searches from Americans in 2025. From Portugal’s volcanic landscapes to Greece’s turquoise beaches, these 12 islands are drawing American attention, and some might surprise you.

Sao Miguel, Azores, Portugal

The Azores might seem like an unlikely American vacation destination, but the United States was the Portuguese archipelago’s second-largest foreign tourism market in 2025, accounting for roughly 490,000 overnight stays. Sao Miguel, its largest island, is especially appealing to nature lovers, with volcanic crater lakes, hot springs, and whale-watching excursions. Its connections to Portuguese-American communities also help explain the longstanding interest. Just don’t expect a typical beach vacation. The weather changes quickly, and renting a car makes exploring the island considerably easier.

Madeira, Portugal

Madeira has been a longtime favorite among British and European vacationers, but Americans are increasingly part of its international visitor mix. The Portuguese island is known for dramatic cliffs, botanical gardens, scenic mountain roads, and walking trails that follow historic irrigation channels called levadas. Funchal makes a convenient base, particularly for travelers who prefer organized excursions over driving winding mountain roads. The island isn’t particularly suited to a traditional sandy-beach getaway, and some of its famous hiking routes can be steep or temporarily closed.

Sardinia, Italy

Sardinia was the second-most-searched international destination among U.S. travelers in HomeToGo’s summer 2025 report, an impressive showing for an island better known as a European summer retreat. Its turquoise beaches are the obvious attraction, but visitors also come for historic towns, distinctive local food, and a slower pace than mainland Italy’s major tourist cities. The glamorous Costa Smeralda can be extremely expensive during peak season. Travelers watching their budgets may find better options around Alghero, Oristano, or smaller towns away from the famous resorts.

Crete, Greece

Americans searching for summer accommodations in Crete increased by 390% year over year in HomeToGo’s 2025 analysis. It’s not difficult to understand the interest. Greece’s largest island combines ancient ruins, traditional villages, mountain scenery, and beaches that rival those of its smaller neighbors. History lovers can explore the Palace of Knossos, while food enthusiasts will find plenty of family-run tavernas serving regional specialties. Crete is much bigger than many visitors realize, though, so trying to cover the entire island in a few days can mean spending too much time driving.

Mallorca, Spain

Mallorca has been a European vacation staple for generations, particularly among British and German travelers. Now it’s also attracting considerable American attention, ranking fourth among HomeToGo’s most-searched international destinations for summer 2025. Beyond the beach resorts, visitors can explore Palma’s Gothic cathedral, browse markets in mountain villages, and enjoy scenic drives through the Serra de Tramuntana. Mallorca’s popularity does come with drawbacks. Summer traffic, crowded beaches, and expensive waterfront accommodations can make a supposedly relaxing vacation feel anything but peaceful.

Menorca, Spain

While nearby Mallorca and Ibiza tend to grab the headlines, Menorca is gaining attention among American travelers looking for a quieter Mediterranean getaway. HomeToGo recorded a 333% increase in U.S. accommodation searches for summer 2025. The island is known for its sheltered coves, clear water, and laid-back towns, including historic Ciutadella. It’s a good choice for travelers who would rather spend their afternoons swimming or enjoying a long lunch than visiting nightclubs. However, reaching the more secluded beaches often requires a rental car and some walking.

Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain

Lanzarote doesn’t look much like the Mediterranean islands Americans usually picture when planning a European vacation. Its volcanic terrain, black-rock landscapes, and striking architecture make it feel almost otherworldly. That unusual scenery may help explain why U.S. accommodation searches increased 384% for summer 2025, according to HomeToGo. Visitors can explore Timanfaya National Park, discover the creations of local artist César Manrique, or relax along the coast. The island’s windy conditions and limited natural shade are worth considering, especially for travelers expecting a conventional tropical beach escape.

Iceland

Iceland may be an entire island nation rather than a Mediterranean-style resort destination, but it has become a familiar choice for Americans looking for something different in Europe. Waterfalls, glaciers, geothermal pools, and the Northern Lights are major attractions, while Reykjavík offers restaurants, museums, and organized day trips. The country’s location in the North Atlantic also makes it a practical stop on some transatlantic itineraries. The downside is cost. Accommodations, restaurant meals, and rental cars can add up quickly, and winter weather can disrupt even carefully planned road trips.

Sicily, Italy

Sicily ranked among HomeToGo’s ten most-searched international destinations for American summer travelers in 2025. Italy’s largest island offers plenty of reasons to stay longer than a weekend, from Palermo’s street markets and ancient Greek temples to Mount Etna and the seaside towns around Taormina. Travelers with Italian ancestry may also be drawn to the island’s family-history connections. Sicily can offer a different experience from Rome or Florence, but distances are considerable, summer temperatures can be intense, and driving in larger cities isn’t always relaxing.

Malta

Malta might not be the first place Americans think of for a European island vacation, but interest is growing. HomeToGo reported a 161% increase in U.S. searches for the country for summer 2025. Its appeal goes well beyond beaches, with fortified cities, prehistoric temples, and centuries of Mediterranean history packed into a relatively small area. English is an official language, which makes getting around easier for many American visitors. Valletta is particularly convenient for sightseeing, although summer crowds and traffic can be frustrating, and many swimming spots are rocky rather than sandy.

Naxos, Greece

Naxos doesn’t have the international name recognition of Santorini or Mykonos, but American travelers are beginning to take notice. HomeToGo reported a 327% increase in U.S. accommodation searches for summer 2025. The island offers sandy beaches, traditional mountain villages, ancient ruins, and restaurants serving locally produced cheeses and potatoes. Its appeal lies partly in having plenty to do without relying entirely on upscale resorts or nightlife. Getting there generally involves a connection through Athens or a ferry journey, and summer ferry schedules can be affected by strong winds.

Zakynthos, Greece

Zakynthos, also known as Zante, has long attracted European beachgoers, but it’s appearing on more American travel wish lists. U.S. accommodation searches increased 175% for summer 2025, according to HomeToGo. The island is famous for its turquoise water, dramatic cliffs, and boat excursions along the coastline. Travelers can also explore quieter villages and areas associated with protected loggerhead sea turtles. Its popularity has a downside, however. Some resort areas are busy and nightlife-focused, while access to famous beaches can be restricted for safety or environmental protection.