Looking for the best places to travel in 2026? Travel experts have shared their top recommendations, highlighting a range of destinations that promise exciting experiences and unique offerings.
At the prestigious International Luxury Travel Marketplace (ILTM) in Cannes, France, travel leaders and influencers gathered to discuss emerging trends and destinations. Here are some expert picks for the must-visit places in 2026:
Europe
London, England
Chosen By: Nick Boulos, travel writer and founder of Master Publishing.
Why: London’s hospitality scene is thriving with new hotel openings and a vibrant dining culture. Dining at places like Carbone and Bonheur is trending, while the theater scene promises star-studded productions with big names like Gary Oldman.
Comporta, Portugal
Chosen By: Heidi Mitchell, travel writer and contributor to major publications.
Why: Comporta offers a chic escape with its serene beaches and trendy vibe. The newly opened Na Praia hotel is highlighted for its eco-friendly design and stunning views.
Thessaloniki, Greece
Chosen By: Emily Goldfischer, hospitality journalist.
Why: Thessaloniki is a culinary treasure trove, with local food characterized by fresh ingredients. The Hyatt Regency Thessaloniki is recommended for its top-notch service and rich culinary offerings.
Italy By Rail
Chosen By: Juliana A. Saad, travel writer and editor.
Why: Experiencing Italy via train is a nostalgic and luxurious option. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express boasts restored 1960s carriages, merging heritage with a modern luxury experience.
Lipari, Italy
Chosen By: Michaela Guzy, travel journalist.
Why: Accessible only by small luxury cruise lines, Lipari offers a calm atmosphere with unique shopping and stunning coastal views.
Flanders, Belgium
Chosen By: James Shillinglaw, travel journalist and editor.
Why: Discover Belgium’s beer, waffles, and medieval towns in Flanders, especially in Bruges and Ghent.
Istria, Croatia
Chosen By: Michaela Guzy.
Why: Known for its rolling vineyards and food culture, Istria is perfect for travelers looking for off-season experiences.
Asia
Chengdu, China
Chosen By: Andrew Chen, luxury travel expert.
Why: Chengdu is perfect for those seeking a blend of modern city life and cultural depth, with options for unique culinary experiences and explorations of local heritage.
Mongolia
Chosen By: Katalina Mayorga, travel expert.
Why: Mongolia offers a remarkable slow-travel experience amid vast landscapes and nomadic cultures that encourage mindful connection with nature.
Bhutan
Chosen By: Francheska Melendez, travel writer.
Why: Known for its sustainable tourism initiatives, Bhutan is promoting high-value, low-volume tourism aligned with the nation’s unique approach to happiness and well-being.
Layan Beach, Thailand
Chosen By: Nora Walsh, travel and wellness writer.
Why: The quieter side of Phuket is becoming a sought-after destination for wellness-focused travelers, particularly with the launch of Layan Life at Anantara Layan Phuket Resort.
Africa & The Middle East
Cape Town, South Africa
Chosen By: Alexander Lobrano, food and travel writer.
Why: With a booming food scene and new luxury hotels, Cape Town is hailed as an emerging cosmopolitan hub.
Amboseli, Kenya
Chosen By: Jennifer Flowers, travel journalist.
Why: Amboseli’s unique wildlife experiences, particularly with its elephants, make it a compelling destination, supported by new luxurious accommodations.
Zambia
Chosen By: Şebnem Denktaş, travel journalist.
Why: With stunning landscapes and intimate safari experiences, Zambia is positioning itself as a unique safari destination.
Egypt
Chosen By: Melanie Lieberman, travel editor.
Why: Egypt is on the rise with new luxury developments and direct flights, particularly highlighted by the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum in 2026.
Abu Dhabi, UAE
Chosen By: Rashi Sen, editor.
Why: Abu Dhabi’s rich cultural offerings and modern attractions make it a top destination, with new museums and events enriching the landscape.
Oceania
Palau
Chosen By: Vicky Vilches, travel journalist.
Why: Palau’s commitment to sustainability and unique marine experiences, combined with luxury accommodations on the Four Seasons Explorer, make it a forward-looking destination.
Tasmania, Australia
Chosen By: Laura Begley Bloom, travel expert.
Why: Tasmania stands out for its unique luxury experiences and vibrant culinary scene, attracting travelers seeking natural beauty and authenticity.
South America
Atacama Desert, Chile
Chosen By: Deborah Frank, content creator.
Why: Atacama is emerging as a leader in astro-tourism, offering unparalleled star-gazing experiences amid stunning landscapes.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Chosen By: María Pellicer, travel journalist.
Why: With upcoming luxury hotel openings and an exciting culinary scene, Rio continues to capture the hearts of travelers.
North America
Boston, Massachusetts
Chosen By: Tiffany Dowd, luxury travel expert.
Why: Celebrating its 250th anniversary, Boston promises excitement in 2026 with events and new hotels redefining its luxury hospitality.
Texas
Chosen By: Laura Begley Bloom.
Why: With the FIFA World Cup and numerous hotel openings, Texas is becoming a major destination with diverse offerings.
Dominica
Chosen By: Laura Begley Bloom.
Why: Known for its pristine nature and sustainability efforts, Dominica is making waves in eco-tourism, boosted by improved access.
These vibrant destinations highlight the diversity and richness of travel opportunities for 2026, promising unforgettable experiences for those looking to explore the world.