The age-old fantasy of packing a bag and embarking on a grand tour of the world, taking in wonders from the Great Wall of China to the Acropolis of Athens, is more attainable than ever. Once the exclusive domain of the ultra-wealthy, multi-continent trips are now within reach for many, thanks in part to the rise of budget airlines offering affordable long-haul flights.
This surge in global wanderlust is highlighted by new research from the airline partnership oneworld, which has unveiled the top 10 destinations for round-the-world travel in 2026. The study also found that travellers from Japan are the most likely to embark on such a multi-stop adventure, followed closely by those from Australia, the UK, the US, and Hong Kong.
The World's Most Coveted Stops
London has secured a prominent position on the global traveller's wish list. The UK's capital enthrals visitors with its profound history, showcased by landmarks such as Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, and Buckingham Palace. For those seeking retail therapy, districts like Oxford Street and Bond Street offer world-class shopping. The city's cultural weight is further cemented by its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Tower of London and Maritime Greenwich, while the West End continues to draw crowds with its acclaimed theatre productions.
Meanwhile, Tokyo presents a captivating study in contrasts. The city's pulsating business districts, such as Shinjuku, stand shoulder-to-shoulder with serene escapes like the Shinjuku Gyoen garden. Its skyline is a mix of the modern Tokyo Skytree and the historic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa. Thanks to Japan's efficient high-speed rail network, Tokyo also serves as an ideal base for exploring other Japanese gems like Kyoto and Hiroshima.
Gateway Cities and Cultural Hubs
Doha, the capital of Qatar, has emerged as a major tourism hub, served by oneworld member Qatar Airways. The city masterfully blends futuristic skyscrapers with a rich cultural heritage, offering visitors everything from world-class museums to the traditional Souq Waqif market.
Hong Kong remains a favourite on multi-stop itineraries due to its excellent transport links, acting as a perfect gateway to other Asian destinations. Renowned as a shopper's paradise with a vibrant food scene, it also provides easy access to nearby Macau and Shenzhen.
On Australia's east coast, Sydney captivates with its stunning harbour, iconic Opera House, and beautiful beaches. It is often paired with stopovers in vibrant Southeast Asian cities like Bangkok, Singapore, and Bali.
Planning Your Global Adventure
Across the Pacific, Los Angeles offers its unique brand of glamour, from the Venice Beach boardwalk to the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Its status as a major flight hub and an expanding Metro system makes it a convenient and exciting stop. In Texas, the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex offers a dual experience: the bustling urban centre of Dallas and the more traditional, casual feel of Fort Worth. Its proximity to Mexico also makes a side trip to Cancún an easy addition.
No global destination list would be complete without New York. 'The city that never sleeps' is a perennial favourite for its diverse culinary and shopping experiences, often combined with trips to Toronto or other US cities like Las Vegas and Miami.
Rounding out the list is Australia's Melbourne, an art lover's heaven famed for its vibrant laneway street art and bustling festival scene, and Singapore, a city-state known for its world-class airport, stunning Marina Bay skyline, and lush greenery.
According to the oneworld research, the typical round-the-world traveller is likely to be on a solo journey, visiting an average of seven stops over three or more months. A spokesperson for the alliance noted, 'Searches on oneworld.com show a strong appetite for adventure in the New Year. From the Big Apple and Hawaii's Big Island to Mount Fiji and the Atlas Mountains, oneworld's Round the World fares offer customers access to an unbeatable network.'
