Every January, the world’s biggest travel publications release their top picks for where to go next, and 2026’s list includes some great options you can’t miss out on. From historic Roman ruins to the beautiful Arabian skylines, this year’s best places to travel in 2026 span continents, climates, and travel styles that’s a subtle reminder of how travel and cultural immersion are perhaps two of the world’s greatest pleasures. This piece is a roundup of where the experts are pointing travelers this year, and what makes each destination worth the trip.

Why 2026 is a Big Travel Year

Major outlets including National Geographic, U.S. News, BBC Travel, and Forbes have all released their own takes on the best places to visit in 2026, and while the lists differ, for very obvious reasons, a few clear patterns emerge: classic European capitals holding their appeal, Gulf destinations that’s remained at the top of the world’s most indulgent destinations for years, and a growing appetite for cooler, less crowded alternatives to typical summer hotspots.

Rome Tops the List, With Tokyo and the Swiss Alps Close Behind

U.S. News named Rome its top pick for 2026, followed closely by Tokyo, Prague, the Swiss Alps, and Mauritius rounding out its top five. 

Rome’s enduring pull comes down to a mix of ancient history and modern energy that rarely fades from best-of lists; there’s the nostalgia of the old (Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon) and the beauty of the modern that serenades travelers across all ages and walks of life. Rome in all its glory draws thousands of tourists annually, and for the aristocrats who love fine wine and dining, the city’s ever indulgent of such remarkable pleasures. 

Tokyo continues to draw travelers with its blend of tradition and variety of offerings. From the warm streets to the immersive culinary adventures, cultural landmarks, the city draws on its rich history to provide an experience that welcomes visitors from across the globe yearly.  

For those chasing the snow and cold relaxing adventures, the Swiss Alps remain one of Europe’s most reliable winter escapes, and Mauritius offers an island alternative for travelers wanting warmth without the usual summer crowds. 

Abu Dhabi Earns a Spot on BBC Travel’s Global List

Closer to home, BBC Travel included Abu Dhabi among its top 20 destinations for 2026, citing the emirate’s culture-packed city as a major attraction. It’s a sign of how far the UAE’s tourism offering has come, standing alongside destinations like Australia’s Uluru and the US’s Oregon Coast on a genuinely global list. For travelers already in the Gulf, it’s also a reminder that some of 2026’s most talked-about destinations are closer than they think, and a visit to enjoy some activities on your bucket list is definitely worth the time. 

Iceland Leads the “Coolcation” Trend

Forbes‘ roundup of the year’s best trips put Iceland front and center, part of a broader shift travel advisors are calling the “coolcation” trend, as more travelers trade peak summer heat for cooler, quieter destinations. Alongside Iceland, the same list favored destinations of like offerings such as Namibia, Albania’s Ksamil coastline, and the Philippines’ El Nido as rising picks for travelers looking to get ahead of the crowds before a destination becomes mainstream.

These destinations are not the most explored and don’t see the same influx of tourists as Europe and the Middle East, however they offer unique experiences and top relaxation spots for individuals who value locations with fewer crowds. 

National Geographic’s Picks Favor the Unexpected

National Geographic’s Best of the World list leaned further off the usual path, naming Italy’s Dolomites, Vancouver, Rabat in Morocco, and Manila among its 2026 selections, alongside Oulu in Finland and coastal Oaxaca in Mexico. The list’s range, from Arctic Finland to tropical Mexico, reflects just how broad the definition of a great trip has become this year.

The choice of these destinations allows for a more immersive cultural experience, favoring the less popular for serenity and variety. 

Top Places to Travel for a Quieter 2026

For travelers after something further from the mainstream, the hidden gems as travelers love to call them. Oulu, Finland appeared across multiple 2026 roundups for its understated charm, while Ksamil in Albania and El Nido in the Philippines continue to draw attention for offering classic beach scenery without the crowd found elsewhere in the Mediterranean and Southeast Asia. 

For anyone compiling their own list of top places to travel this year, these quieter alternatives are worth weighing against the obvious headline destinations. A top hotel or luxury resort in one of these destinations paired with a private jet charter is an irresistible way to round up 2026 in style. 

Getting There: Why Private Jet Charter Makes 2026 Travel Easier

Whichever destination makes your 2026 list or whatever is left of it, getting there comfortably matters just as much as the destination itself. A private jet charter cuts out layovers, long airport queues, and rigid schedules, letting you fly directly on your own schedule, whether that’s a quick hop to Doha or a longer route out to the Swiss Alps or Mauritius. RightJet’s charter team can source the right aircraft for any of this year’s top destinations, handling everything from aircraft selection and coordination, so the only thing left to do is pack your bags and plan a holiday itinerary.

Charter a private jet with RightJet and explore top holiday destinations in style. 

FAQs

What is the most popular travel destination for 2026?

Rome was named the top overall destination for 2026 by the U.S. News, with Tokyo, Prague, the Swiss Alps, and Mauritius also ranking highly.

Is Abu Dhabi a good destination to visit in 2026?

Yes, Abu Dhabi was included on BBC Travel’s list of the 20 best places to visit in 2026, recognized for its culture-focused city breaks.

Are there any destinations gaining momentum worth visiting in 2026?

Yes, destinations like Oulu in Finland, Ksamil in Albania, and El Nido in the Philippines have been named by multiple 2026 travel lists as strong alternatives to more crowded hotspots.

Is it worth chartering a private jet for international travel in 2026?

For travelers prioritizing flexibility and comfort, private jet charter removes the scheduling and layover constraints of commercial travel, particularly useful for multi-stop or last-minute 2026 trips.