The application submitted by the Government of the Azores, through the Azores Tourism Association, to the prize for best European Destination 2016 has been accepted by the event's organisation. It is the only Portuguese destination in the 2016 edition.

 The "Best European Destination 2016" is one of the most prestigious international tourism awards. This initiative is promoted by the European organisation of the same name based in Brussels.

 The award was created in 2009 with the aim of promoting culture and tourism in Europe as number one destination in the world. Since then, the European Best Destinations organisation, in partnership with participating tourist regions and EDEN network, has sought to promote a better understanding of the richness, diversity and quality of European destinations.

 Currently, it is the main portal to explore Europe, covering more than 355 destinations, more than 2.5 million visitors, thousands of followers on their social networks and it has a media coverage amounting to nearly 26 million Euros.

 The voting is open to the general public and will take place online at the address www.vote.ebdest.in until February 10.
 The most voted destination will be elected as the "Best European Destination 2016" and will enjoy the high media exposure associated with this distinction.