Explore Authentic Rural Life: UN Tourism Opens Best Tourism Villages 2026

UN Tourism has officially launched the call for applications for its prestigious Best Tourism Villages (BTV) 2026 program. The initiative highlights villages that showcase rich cultural and natural assets while promoting sustainable tourism. It aims to support communities where tourism becomes a tool for positive transformation, economic growth, and social well-being.

The program encourages Member States to nominate villages that preserve local traditions, lifestyles, and environmental heritage. Applications for BTV 2026 are now open, with submissions accepted through National Tourism Administrations until 9 June 2026 at 23:59 CEST. Each country can submit up to eight village nominations per year. For further details, visit the UN Tourism Best Tourism Villages 2026 page.

A Unique Travel Experience

The Best Tourism Villages program offers travelers a chance to explore authentic rural destinations. These villages provide visitors with immersive experiences, from traditional agriculture and local crafts to natural landscapes untouched by mass tourism. They encourage travelers to connect with local communities and gain insight into everyday life beyond urban centers.

For global travelers seeking meaningful journeys, these villages present opportunities to discover cultural richness while supporting responsible tourism. UN Tourism emphasizes that eligible villages should have a population of no more than 15,000 inhabitants, ensuring small-scale and community-driven tourism experiences.

Sustainability at the Core

Sustainability lies at the heart of the Best Tourism Villages initiative. Villages selected under this program demonstrate a strong commitment to social, economic, and environmental sustainability. From preserving local traditions to promoting eco-friendly practices, these villages aim to balance tourism growth with community welfare.

Tourists visiting these destinations can expect experiences that reflect genuine community values. Sustainable tourism ensures that visitors enjoy cultural and natural assets while contributing to local development. This approach empowers villagers, supports livelihoods, and strengthens local economies.

Criteria for Selection

The selection process evaluates applications based on nine critical areas. These include the preservation of cultural and natural resources, the promotion of traditions, economic and social sustainability, environmental stewardship, tourism development, governance, infrastructure, and visitor safety.

Villages are carefully reviewed by an external Advisory Board of global tourism experts. This ensures that selected destinations meet high standards of quality and offer authentic, well-managed travel experiences. The evaluation process is rigorous, but it guarantees that travelers visiting these villages can enjoy safe, sustainable, and culturally rich experiences.

Global Impact on Rural Tourism

Since its inception, the Best Tourism Villages program has transformed the way rural destinations are perceived. It offers global travelers a new perspective on tourism, emphasizing local stories, community engagement, and heritage conservation. By connecting travelers with villages, UN Tourism helps distribute the benefits of tourism beyond urban centers.

Rural villages often face challenges such as declining populations, limited infrastructure, and economic constraints. This program encourages these communities to leverage tourism as a tool for sustainable development. By doing so, visitors contribute to the revitalization of local culture, heritage, and livelihoods.

A Gateway to Cultural Immersion

Travelers exploring Best Tourism Villages can engage in hands-on experiences. From participating in traditional agricultural practices to learning local crafts, visitors gain a deeper understanding of rural life. Culinary traditions, local festivals, and community celebrations provide additional layers of immersive travel experiences.

These villages are not just destinations but gateways to authentic cultural discovery. They invite travelers to slow down, explore, and appreciate local lifestyles. Each village reflects its unique geography, history, and heritage, offering distinctive experiences in every corner of the globe.

How to Apply

UN Tourism Member States must submit applications through their National Tourism Administrations. The process is open until 9 June 2026. Guidelines, forms, and evaluation criteria are available on the official UN Tourism Best Tourism Villages 2026 page.

Applications undergo an initial review by the UN Tourism Secretariat before being evaluated by the Advisory Board. Final selections are announced at a dedicated UN Tourism event, celebrating villages that exemplify sustainable tourism and community development.

Strengthening Local Communities

One of the unique aspects of the Best Tourism Villages initiative is its focus on community well-being. Tourism is leveraged not only as an economic driver but also as a tool for social cohesion and cultural preservation. Villages demonstrate strong governance and community participation, ensuring that tourism benefits are equitably shared.

Visitors to these villages contribute directly to the local economy, supporting small businesses, artisans, and farmers. This responsible travel approach encourages repeat visits and builds long-term connections between travelers and host communities.

Traveling Responsibly

Global travelers are increasingly seeking authentic experiences that align with sustainable and ethical practices. Best Tourism Villages provide this opportunity, offering responsible travel options that respect local environments and cultures. These destinations are ideal for travelers who value meaningful connections, immersive experiences, and eco-friendly tourism.

The program also highlights safety, health, and security, ensuring that visitors can enjoy their travels with peace of mind. Robust infrastructure and well-planned tourism services enhance the visitor experience, making these villages accessible and welcoming to travelers from all corners of the world.

Looking Ahead

The 2026 edition of the Best Tourism Villages program promises to unveil new rural gems around the globe. For travelers, this is a unique chance to explore villages that embody the spirit of sustainability, cultural preservation, and community resilience.

By participating in this initiative, travelers contribute to a global movement that celebrates rural life, supports local communities, and preserves cultural heritage. Best Tourism Villages offer journeys that go beyond sightseeing—they provide experiences that leave lasting impressions and meaningful memories.

For more information on participating villages and the application process, travelers and Member States can visit the official UN Tourism Best Tourism Villages 2026 website.

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