Antalya Tops Global Rankings as World Blue Flag Beach Capital for 2026
Antalya has officially retained its status as the world’s leading city for clean, safe, and environmentally sustainable coastlines. According to the latest global rankings released by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and coordinated nationally by TÜRÇEV, the Mediterranean hub secured 232 Blue Flag-certified beaches in 2026.
The certification—widely regarded as the gold standard for coastal management—places Antalya comfortably ahead of major destination cities across Spain, Greece, and France. Nationally, Türkiye retained its spot as the 3rd leading country in the world with 580 Blue Flag beaches, supported by coastal investments monitored under the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
Strict Criteria and Sustainable Tourism
Earning a Blue Flag requires meeting 33 stringent standards spanning four main categories: water quality, environmental management, safety, and eco-education. Regular testing throughout the summer season ensures seawater cleanliness, while on-site facilities must deliver lifeguard services and accessibility for visitors with disabilities.
Famous spots contributing to Antalya's record count include Cleopatra Beach in Alanya, Lara Beach, and Konyaaltı Beach. The city’s local government and tourism boards have focused heavily on advanced wastewater treatment and public beach upgrades to preserve coastal ecosystems.
