Indonesia Ranks Among the World's Top 10 Best Countries for 2026 According to Conde Nast Traveller

Indonesia has once again earned recognition on the global tourism stage. At the 2026 Readers' Choice Awards organised by Condé Nast Traveller, Indonesia placed 8th in the list of the world's best countries, with a final score of 93.75 out of 100. 

This result was announced on 6 October 2026, compiled from ratings submitted by readers of the international travel magazine. 

This achievement places Indonesia among the Favourite Destinations for global travellers. Natural beauty, rich Cultural Heritage, culinary experiences, and the wide range of available Outdoor Activities form the core of Indonesia's appeal.

The Readers' Choice Awards are an annual accolade determined exclusively by public reader voting. Unlike awards decided entirely by an appointed jury panel, this ranking reflects genuine on-location experience ratings from real travellers across all featured destinations.

Indonesia Rejoins the Ranks of Top Destinations

Indonesia is no unfamiliar name on the global tourism map. Nevertheless, Condé Nast Traveller noted widespread surprise when Indonesia failed to appear on the best countries list for the 2025 edition of the awards.

This year, Indonesia has returned to break into the top 10, securing 8th position. In its official coverage, the publication highlighted Bali as Indonesia's central tourism hub. Bali offers highly varied visitor experiences, ranging from quiet forest retreats to lively coastal zones with modern beach clubs.

Bali has long been recognised for its ability to cater to every segment of traveller. Those seeking peace can immerse themselves in natural surroundings and wellness services, while visitors drawn to beach lifestyle have no shortage of options for relaxation and entertainment.

That said, Bali's popularity has also brought challenges in the form of overcrowding across many popular areas. As concerns around overtourism continue to grow, other destinations across Indonesia are presented with growing opportunities to attract travellers looking for alternative experiences.

Komodo, Raja Ampat and Lombok Also Capture International Attention

In its review, Condé Nast Traveller highlighted Indonesia's Tourism Potential beyond Bali. As an archipelago nation comprised of over 17,000 islands, Indonesia offers an enormous diversity of travel options for visitors. 

Komodo National Park stands out as one of Indonesia's flagship destinations, renowned for its rugged hilly island landscapes, clear turquoise waters, pristine coastlines, and the natural habitat of the Komodo dragon. This area also offers premium marine tourism experiences and multi-day boat tours to take in the full archipelago panorama.

Located in far eastern Indonesia, Raja Ampat is celebrated for its dramatic karst island formations, crystal clear waters, and one of the richest marine ecosystems on Earth. This destination draws travellers for diving, snorkelling, or exploring uninhabited islands with untouched, spectacular natural scenery.

Meanwhile, Lombok presents a balanced blend of coastlines, mountain terrain, intact local culture, and relaxed island atmosphere. Visitors can choose widely varied experiences here, from unwinding along quiet beaches to trekking the wilderness surrounding Mount Rinjani.

These three destinations demonstrate that Indonesia's tourism offering is not reliant on a single island. Travellers can build itineraries matched exactly to their interests, covering Nature Adventure, marine tourism, cultural exploration and everything in between.

Greece Claims First Place

In the 2026 ranking of the World's Best Countries, Greece took the top position with a score of 98.14 out of 100. Japan placed second with 97.01 points, while Italy secured third place with a score of 96.48.

Croatia ranked 7th with a score of 94.01, sitting just one position above Indonesia. Directly after Indonesia, Kenya took 9th place with 93.57 points, while Thailand closed the top 10 at 10th position with a score of 93.26. 

Greece earned the top spot thanks to its unique appeal that combines ancient history, living traditional culture, world class cuisine, and iconic archipelago landscapes. 

Santorini is famous globally for its signature whitewashed buildings and dramatic blue sea views. Mykonos offers a lively, energetic island atmosphere, while Crete boasts vast varied terrain, deep culinary traditions and a historic wine industry.

Japan and Italy also received high scores thanks to their distinct, well-defined travel identities. Japan balances timeless tradition, thoughtful modern design, exceptional cuisine and ultra-efficient public transport. Italy meanwhile is celebrated for its unrivalled historical heritage, architecturally unique cities, and legendary gastronomy.

Opportunities to Expand Indonesia's Tourism Sector

Indonesia's placement in the top 10 of the 2026 Readers' Choice Awards provides valuable momentum to introduce more of the country's destinations to International Travellers. 

Bali will remain a critical entry point due to its established international flight connectivity, however planned development of alternative destinations will also help expand the range of travel experiences available in the country.

Komodo, Raja Ampat and Lombok each carry distinct unique identities, with strong appeal for travellers with specific niche interests. 

Improving transport access, appropriate accommodation options, authentic local visitor experiences and targeted promotion will support these destinations in reaching a wider global market.