Top Rated Travel Destination for 2026
If travel trends continue in their current direction, 2026 is shaping up to be a year filled with big adventures, immersive cultural escapes, and off-the-beaten-path gems. Travellers are seeking destinations that feel meaningful, sustainable, and rich in experience — and these places rise to the top. Keep reading for all of the top-rated destinations to keep on your radar for 2026!
1. Japan
Japan continues to trend globally thanks to its seamless mix of ancient culture and futuristic design. With the rise in sustainable tourism and new high-speed rail routes, 2026 will be an ideal year to explore.
Why It’s Trending:
Efficient transportation for easy multi-city adventures
Rising global interest in Japanese cuisine
Growing popularity of rural prefectures
Top Picks:
Tokyo, Kyoto, Sapporo, Takayama, Hokkaido national parks
2. Portugal
Portugal has become Europe’s darling, and it’s only getting more popular. By 2026, expect even better flight connectivity and tourism-ready coastal towns.
Why It’s Trending:
Budget-friendly compared to many Western European countries
Safe, warm, and year-round beautiful
Coastal towns are gaining popularity
Top Picks:
Lisbon, Porto, the Algarve, Madeira, the Azores
3. Colombia
Colombia is on track to become South America’s most popular destination for the next generation of travellers. With improved safety and a booming food scene, it’s perfect for 2026 bucket lists.
Why It’s Trending:
Increasing flight routes and affordable pricing
Vibrant cities mixed with lush nature
Excellent for digital nomads
Top Picks:
Cartagena, Medellín, Bogotá, Tayrona National Park
4. New Zealand
New Zealand continues to capture the hearts of adventure travellers. As demand rises, 2026 will be one of the best years to experience it before tourism peaks again.
Why It’s Trending:
World-class hikes and landscapes
Wellness + adventure tourism growth
Filming locations boosting travel interest
Top Picks:
Queenstown, Wanaka, Mount Cook, Milford Sound, Rotorua
5. Morocco
With Marrakech becoming a high-profile destination, Morocco is attracting travellers seeking culture, chef-led dining, and epic landscapes.
Why It’s Trending:
High demand for immersive cultural experiences
Architectural and culinary scenes are booming
New luxury desert stays
Top Picks:
Marrakech, Chefchaouen, Fes, Sahara Desert, Essaouira
6. Iceland
Iceland’s geothermal landscapes and surreal scenery continue to captivate travellers. 2026 is expected to bring new eco-lodges and flight routes.
Why It’s Trending:
Growth in eco-adventure tourism
Aurora viewing technology is improving
Rising interest in road trips
Top Picks:
Golden Circle, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Blue Lagoon, South Coast waterfalls
7. Vietnam
Vietnam is becoming one of Asia’s most in-demand destinations thanks to its affordability, delicious food, and dramatic landscapes.
Why It’s Trending:
Excellent value for money
Increasing digital nomad communities
Expansion of food and eco-tourism
Top Picks:
Hoi An, Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Da Nang, Phu Quoc
8. Greece
Greece continues to be a global favourite, but travellers in 2026 are expected to look beyond Santorini and Mykonos for lesser-known gems.
Why It’s Trending:
Demand for slow, laid-back European travel
Improved ferry and island connectivity
Huge culinary appeal
Top Picks:
Naxos, Milos, Crete, Paros, Thessaloniki
9. Canada – Wilderness, Culture & Wide-Open Spaces
Canada is trending globally thanks to its spectacular landscapes, wildlife, and Indigenous tourism experiences.
Why It’s Trending:
National parks are gaining global attention
New Indigenous-led cultural tours
Outdoor travel boom
Top Picks:
Banff, Vancouver Island, Québec City, Tofino, Jasper
10. Australia – Sun, Surf & Unique Wildlife
With new tourism campaigns and better route connectivity, Australia is set to be one of the top long-haul destinations of 2026.
Why It’s Trending:
Growth in immersive wildlife experiences
Diverse landscapes from desert to reef
Trendy coastal cities
Top Picks:
Sydney, Cairns, Melbourne, Tasmania, Western Australia
2026 is shaping up to be a year of meaningful and immersive travel, with travellers seeking places that combine cultural depth, natural beauty, and authentic experiences. Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, food, or culture, these top-rated destinations promise to deliver unforgettable memories. Ready to explore your travel options? Book a call with me today!