Trending destinations to visit in 2026
Coastal escapes, mountain trails, vibrant markets and cultural festivals—here, we uncover 2026's most sought-after destinations around the world.
If you’re already dreaming about your next escape, the best 2026 destinations are all about meaningful travel—places that stir the soul and spark wonder. These up-and-coming travel hotspots, featured in Expedia’s Unpack ‘26 Destinations of the Year, blend natural beauty, cultural depth and a sense of discovery that goes beyond the usual tourist trail. Think windswept coastlines, mountain retreats and island hideaways where you can slow down and savour the moment. Local flavours, traditions and landscapes invite you in, not just to visit, but to connect. Whether you’re chasing adventure, serenity or a little of both, we’ve curated a list that’s full of inspiration to help you explore like a pro. Read on to uncover the destinations that will shape the way you travel in 2026 and why they deserve a spot on your list.
01
Big Sky, Montana, United States
Fly into Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport or take the Montana Highway 191 for Big Sky magic
Big Sky, Montana is where endless horizons and alpine air invite you to breathe deeper and roam freer. Just an hour’s drive from the airport, this mountainous haven is a year-round escape for those who crave nature at its most cinematic.
In winter, Big Sky transforms into a powder paradise—home to one of the largest ski areas in the US, with terrain for every level and views that make you pause mid-slope. When the snow melts, hiking trails like Beehive Basin and the stunning walk to Ousel Falls reveal wildflowers, waterfalls and sweeping vistas. Summer also brings the rhythm of Music in the Mountains, the adrenaline of Big Sky PBR and the charm of the local farmers’ market, where mountain air mingles with the scent of freshly baked bread and the sound of live tunes. Just beyond lies Yellowstone National Park, a bucket-list neighbour that adds geothermal wonder to your itinerary. And Bozeman, with its artsy vibe and frontier spirit, makes an incredible gateway.
Big Sky is popular because it feels untouched yet welcoming—a place where luxury lodges meet rugged trails and each season offers a new reason to return. The best times to visit Big Sky include December through March for snow sports like snowboarding, dog sledding and ice skating or June through September for hiking, festivals and crisp mountain air. Whether you’re carving fresh tracks through powder or chasing sunsets over alpine trails, Big Sky delivers the kind of mountain magic that stays with you long after you’ve left.
02
Sardinia, Italy
Ferry into Olbia or fly direct to Cagliari for Sardinia’s soul
Sardinia is the understated gem of Italy, with turquoise waters, rugged cliffs and ancient history that whispers through stone ruins and sun-drenched villages. It’s popular not just for its postcard-perfect beaches like Costa Smeralda and Cala Goloritzé, but for the way it blends wild nature, rich culture and slow-living charm into one unforgettable experience.
Start with the sea: Snorkel or sail through the Maddalena Archipelago, a scattering of granite islands with translucent coves that feel almost otherworldly. Inland, hike the dramatic Gorropu Gorge or explore Gennargentu National Park, where shepherd trails wind through dreamy forests and peaks. History lovers will be drawn to the Nuraghi—mysterious Bronze Age towers that dot the landscape like ancient sentinels. Don’t miss the hidden world of Neptune’s Grotto or venture into the Bue Marino caves for shimmering rock formations.
In spring, the cultural and religious Sant’Efisio festival bursts with colour and a traditional procession, while fall in Barbagia offers a quieter, deeper dive into Sardinia’s artisanal heart—think handmade textiles, wood-fired bread and vineyard tours spent over golden afternoons. For a dramatic shift in scenery, head to Porto Flavia —a jaw-dropping engineering marvel carved into seaside cliffs on Sardinia’s west coast. Once a revolutionary mining port, it now offers panoramic views and a glimpse into the island’s industrial past.
Whether you’re chasing wind on a kitesurf, wandering the Path of 100 Towers or simply soaking up the Mediterranean sun, the best things to do in Sardinia encourage you to slow down and enjoy the good life. Revel in the kind of Italian escape that rewrites your idea of paradise, one sun-soaked moment at a time.
03
Okinawa, Japan
Fly into Naha Airport for Okinawa’s island rhythm
Okinawa is Japan‘s tropical soul—an archipelago of over 160 islands where coral reefs shimmer, traditions thrive and time slows to the sway of the sea. Popular for its laid-back vibe and rich Ryukyuan heritage, it’s a place where you can dive into both turquoise waters and centuries-old culture.
The coast is a great starting point. The Kerama Islands offer world-class snorkelling, scuba diving and even whale watching in the winter months. Island hop your way through secluded beaches and vibrant marine life or hike into the lush forests of Yanbaru, where rare wildlife and natural spectacles like Hiji Falls await. For stunning panoramic views, Cape Manzamo is a must—especially at sunset.
One of the best things to see in Okinawa is the magnificent Shurijo Castle. Once the royal seat of the Ryukyu Kingdom, it’s now beautifully restored with intriguing exhibits and architectural wonders. When it’s time for culture, Okinawa’s festivals are pure energy. The Naha Dragon Boat Race kicks off the summer with exquisitely decorated boats, while the Eisa Dance Festival fills the streets with rousing drums and traditional movement. In October, the Naha Great Tug-of-War—the world’s largest—brings thousands together in a spectacle of strength and unity.
You can’t come to Okinawa and not sample some of its mouth-watering dishes. Try rafute (braised pork belly) or goya champuru (bitter melon stir-fry) at local izakayas in Naha’s Kokusai Dori or enjoy fresh seafood at the Makishi Public Market.
Beyond its paradisical beaches, Okinawa is a cultural dive wrapped in island warmth. Trade the fast-paced for the free-spirited and experience a living tapestry of tradition and tropical allure.
04
Phu Quoc, Vietnam
Take a plane to Phu Quoc International Airport for Vietnam’s secluded sands
Phu Quoc is Vietnam’s answer to understated luxury—an island where palm-lined beaches, coral reefs and lantern-lit nights create a tempo that’s hard to leave behind. Nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, it’s become a favourite for travellers seeking tropical serenity with a splash of adventure.
The main draw is of course, the striking beaches. Long Beach is ideal for golden mornings and lazy afternoons, while Sao Beach dazzles nature photographers with its powdery white sand and jewel-toned waters. Ong Lang Beach offers peaceful vibes and gentle waves that attract families with children. Offshore, the An Thoi Archipelago is a snorkeller’s dream thanks to its vibrant coral gardens and floating seafood restaurants serving up the freshest catch of the day.
When night falls, wander through the Dinh Cau Night Market, where sizzling street food fills the air with fragrant spices and cheerful vendors sell beautiful souvenirs handmade with romantic coloured pearls. Alternatively, try nighttime squid fishing, a local tradition that’s as fun as it is flavourful. For a little spiritual reflection and a wonderful photo opportunity, catch the sunset at the Dinh Cau Rock Temple, perched dramatically on the coast.
If you’re a nature lover, hike through Phu Quoc National Park’s lush jungle trails and discover pretty waterfalls and rare wildlife. Or if you’d like to experience traditional island life, pay a visit to the Ham Ninh fishing village, where stilt houses have stood and fresh crab has been served since time immemorial.
Phu Quoc is a place where days drift between sun and sea and every experience feels like a quiet celebration of nature and culture. From savouring street food in bustling markets to diving into mesmerising coral gardens, the island offers a warmth that lingers with you long after your footprints fade from the sand.
05
Savoie, France
Take the train to Chambéry or Albertville for alpine elegance in Savoie
Savoie is France’s alpine heartland—a department of soaring peaks, crystalline lakes and villages that feel lifted from a storybook. Situated in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, it’s a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers that wind through the Beaufortain Massif and the wild beauty of Vanoise National Park, where marmots whistle and glaciers glint under the summer sun.
A winter wonderland with serious credentials, the region is home to over 60 ski resorts and some of the largest ski links in the world, including Les Trois Vallées and Paradiski. Whether you’re soaring atop the slopes in Val d’Isère, traversing scenic Nordic trails or trying the Olympic bobsleigh in La Plagne, Savoie offers snow sports for every level and style.
But Savoie’s appeal goes beyond the peaks. Lac du Bourget, France’s deepest lake, offers scenic boat rides and lakeside strolls, while the Château de Miolans, perched vividly above the valley, weaves tales of medieval intrigue. In Chambéry, wander the old town’s arcaded streets and admire masterpieces at the Musée des Beaux-Arts. Don’t miss the Chambéry Cathedral, with its trompe-l’œil ceiling that tricks the eye.
In the nearby Isère department, the Château de Vizille offers a deeper dive into French history. It’s home to the Museum of the French Revolution and sprawling gardens ideal for a reflective walk. Savoie is a place that rewards curiosity—where every winding trail, lakeside chateau and quiet museum reveals another facet of alpine life. It’s not just about the views (though they are spectacular); it’s about the feeling of stepping into a landscape shaped by centuries of culture, nature and quiet grandeur.
Also just over an hour away in the Haute-Savoie department is Annecy, which enchants photographers and content creators with its flower-lined canals and pastel facades. Glide across the fairytale lake and lose track of time along cobbled alleyways.
06
Fort Walton Beach, United States
Fly to Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport for an escapade into Florida’s Emerald Coast
A coastal canvas of soft sand, salty breezes and sunlit adventure, Fort Walton Beach is a laid-back slice of the Florida Panhandle, US that invites you to kick off your shoes, bury your toes into the sugar-white sand and stay a while. Travellers in 2026 will flock here for its family-friendly atmosphere, outdoor experiences and easy access to both nature and culture.
Hit the greens at the area’s scenic championship golf club or jump right into local life by browsing fresh produce and handmade crafts at the Fort Walton Beach Farmers’ Market. Then, explore museums and heritage sites, including the Indian Temple Mound Museum, a quiet but powerful tribute to the region’s Native American heritage.
A main draw of the area is, of course, its beautiful beaches. The moment you step onto Okaloosa Island, the scent of sea air and the shimmer of the Gulf will entice you in for sunrise strolls and sunset swims. At John Beasley Park, the dunes roll gently towards the sea and shaded picnic spots make great places to watch the world drift by. The calm waters of Santa Rosa Sound are ideal for casting a line or skimming across the water’s surface on a jet ski. Families will love the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, where they can marvel at wild dolphins and sea lions just steps from the beach.
If you’re wondering how to get around Fort Walton Beach, taking a trolley is a breezy, scenic and convenient way to hop between beach spots, shops and museums. The best time to visit is usually in spring or fall, when the weather is warm, the skies are clear and the crowds are light.
From the salt-kissed breeze to the golden glow of a Gulf Coast sunset, Fort Walton Beach is a destination that balances play and peace and leaves its mark softly, like waves smoothing over shorelines.
07
Ucluelet, Canada
Fly into Tofino Airport or drive from Nanaimo for wild coastal beauty
Ucluelet is where the Pacific Northwest reveals its raw, windswept soul. Tucked on the west coast of Vancouver Island, Canada, this small town offers big nature—rugged shorelines, misty forests and the kind of quiet that makes you feel miles away from anywhere.
The Wild Pacific Trail is the crown jewel here: A cliff-hugging path through ancient cedar groves and along dramatic headlands, with views of crashing waves and the iconic Amphitrite Point Lighthouse. It’s a must-do, whether you’re chasing stormy skies or gleaming sunsets. For more adventure, hike into the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, where rainforest trails lead to secluded beaches and the scent of salt and spruce lingers in the air.
Out on the water, kayaking in Barkley Sound reveals hidden coves and the haunting beauty of the Broken Group Islands. Surfing is popular year-round, with nearby beaches offering waves for both beginners and seasoned riders. In the spring, one of the best things to see in Ucluelet is the Pacific Rim Whale Festival, which celebrates the return of migrating grey whales with music, food and ocean-themed, family-friendly events.
For souvenirs or supplies for a picnic, Sundays bring the Ucluelet Market, a cosy gathering of local artisans and farmers selling fresh produce and handmade goods. It’s a great option for a post-hike wander, especially when complimented by sampling some tasty seafood chowder. The town itself is welcoming and walkable, with cafes, galleries and harbour views.
Ucluelet is for those who prefer their nature unfiltered. It’s not polished, it’s powerful. It’s a place to breathe deep, slow down and let the rhythm of the coast reset your senses.
08
Cotswolds, United Kingdom
A 2.5 hour drive from London or a train to Cheltenham Spa leads to rolling hills and honey-stone villages
The Cotswolds is England at its most idyllic—an undulating patchwork of meadows, dry-stone walls and villages that seem frozen in time. It’s popular for good reason: Whether you’re walking the Cotswold Way, browsing boutiques in Cirencester or cycling past sheep-dotted hills, the region offers a gentle charm that’s unmatched.
The Cotswold Way stretches over a hundred miles from Chipping Camden to Bath, winding through beech woodlands, hilltop viewpoints and historic market towns. It’s ideal for long-distance walkers or those who crave a bite-sized ramble. End your day with a hearty plate of pie and mashed potatoes at a country pub. For something a bit grander, Blenheim Palace —a UNESCO World Heritage Site and birthplace of Winston Churchill—offers opulent interiors and vast gardens that feel straight out of a period drama.
Cheltenham offers a cultural twist to your 2026 holiday with its Literature Festival each October, drawing big-name authors and thinkers to this elegant spa town. Meanwhile, the Moreton-in-Marsh Show in early September is a celebration of rural life, with livestock competitions, local food and crafts that showcase the region’s agricultural roots.
We recommend renting a car, especially if you want to explore hidden hamlets and scenic backroads. But trains connect key towns like Cheltenham, Moreton-in-Marsh and Oxford, making it easy to hop between highlights. Local buses and bike rentals offer slower, scenic alternatives.
Whether you’re sipping tea in a garden café or wandering over verdant hills, the Cotswolds will invite you to embrace the art of slow travel—where every turn reveals a postcard-perfect view and a storey waiting to be discovered.
09
San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
Fly to Querétaro or Guanajuato Airport for colonial charm in San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende is a feast for the senses—cobblestone streets lined with bougainvillea, baroque facades glowing in the afternoon sun and the hum of creativity in every corner. This UNESCO World Heritage city in Mexico‘s central highlands is beloved for its vibrant arts scene, rich history and irresistible culinary culture.
Start with a walking tour to get your bearings and dive into the city’s layered past. From the iconic Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel to hidden courtyards and artisan workshops, local guides bring the stories behind the architecture to life. Then, roll up your sleeves in a Mexican cooking class, where you’ll learn to make mouthwatering mole or tamales using traditional techniques and fresh market ingredients.
Speaking of markets, the Mercado Ignacio Ramírez is a must—bursting with colour, spices and handicrafts. It’s a wonderful place to sample tostadas and tacos, pick up local produce or find a one-of-a-kind souvenir. Art lovers will find inspiration in the city’s many galleries and studios, from contemporary spaces to folk art collectives. Admire sculptures at Fábrica La Aurora or take a hands-on arts class at Galería San Francisco.
Beyond the canvas, the city pulses with culture. Visit the Mercado de Artesanías for handwoven textiles and ceramics or explore the leafy Parque Benito Juárez, where locals gather for authentic music and dancing. Rooftop bars and courtyard cafes should be high on your itinerary too, for their beautiful views, especially at sunset when the pink spires of Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel glow against the sky.
The sweet spot to visit is April to May or September to October, when the weather is mild, the crowds are thinner and the city hosts cultural events like the Festival de San Miguel de Allende (May) and the firework-filled Fiestas Patrias (September). Getting around San Miguel de Allende is easy on foot and its compact layout and pedestrian-friendly streets make wandering a joy.
Whether you’re tasting or touring, this Mexican gem turns everyday moments into works of art. Its unique blend of art, history and community spirit makes every day feel like a celebration.
10
Hobart, Australia
Fly to Hobart International Airport for a cultural edge in Tasmania’s capital
Hobart, Australia is a city that surprises—where misty mountains meet cutting-edge art and colonial charm blends seamlessly with bold creativity. Nestled between the brooding silhouette of Kunanyi / Mount Wellington and the sparkling Derwent River, it’s a place where every street invites exploration.
A hike or a drive up Kunanyi is definitely one of the best things to do in Hobart thanks to its panoramic views stretching across the city and beyond. Take your camera to immortalise this spectacular sight. Another can’t miss activity is a trip to the provocative world of MONA (Museum of Old and New Art), a subterranean labyrinth of contemporary installations and ancient curiosities that challenge and captivate in equal measure.
If you’re in Hobart on a Saturday, stroll through the bustling Salamanca Market for a taste of local life. The produce is fresh, the vendors are friendly and the live music fills the cobbled square with energy. Nearby, Battery Point offers a quieter allure, with Georgian cottages, leafy lanes and waterfront cafes ideal for a slow afternoon.
Art lovers can explore the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery for Indigenous heritage and maritime history or visit Despard Gallery, known for showcasing contemporary Tasmanian artists. For a breath of fresh air, the Royal Tasmanian Botanic Gardens offer tranquil paths through native and exotic fauna. It’s an excellent place for active families wanting to discover Tasmania’s breathtaking nature. Meanwhile, history comes alive at the Cascades Female Factory Historic Site, a haunting and powerful glimpse into the lives of convict women, while the Mawson’s Huts Replica Museum brings Antarctic exploration to life just steps from the waterfront.
Hobart is a city of contrasts—wild yet unrefined, historic yet forward-thinking. Come for the mountain air and waterfront scenery and leave with memories stitched from art, history and wild Tasmanian beauty.
From rugged coastlines to sun-soaked beaches, alpine trails to colonial plazas, each of these trending destinations offers its own rhythm, flavour and sense of wonder. It doesn’t matter if you’re craving cultural immersion, outdoor adventure or simply a change of pace, there’s a place here that will speak to your soul. So why wait? Start planning your journey now: book your flights early to lock in the best deals and reserve your hotels. Your 2026 travel itinerary awaits.
