Travel experts have unveiled their curated selection of the seven hottest destinations to visit in 2026, offering inspiration for holidaymakers seeking adventure, culture, or relaxation. From the emerging appeal of Kyrgyzstan to the luxury transformation of Mallorca, these locations are tipped to dominate travel trends this year.
Mallorca: Spain's New 'It' Island
Luxury travel company ASmallWorld has named Mallorca as Spain's newest 'It' island, ranking it among the top five most inquired-about destinations in their discussion hub. CEO Zain Richardson highlights the island's sheer diversity, blending bohemian stone-built villages with Palma's vibrant restaurants and galleries, alongside a varied coastline of quiet calas and sandy beaches.
"Transfers are short, and the infrastructure is well developed," Richardson adds, noting that sustainability is a key priority. Local authorities are tightening regulations on party boats, noisy beach activities, and illegal rentals to combat over-tourism and preserve quality of life. This shift is expected to foster a calmer, more authentic tourism experience. The island will see new luxury hotel openings in 2026, including the Mandarin Oriental Punta Negra.
The United States: Anniversaries and Sporting Events
While not an emerging destination, the United States offers compelling reasons to visit in 2026, despite a challenging political climate. This year marks the 250th anniversary of US independence and the centenary of the iconic Route 66 highway. Additionally, the US will co-host the FIFA World Cup, spotlighting cities like Atlanta, Miami, Boston, Seattle, Philadelphia, Dallas, and Kansas City.
Dark sky tourism is predicted to surge, with prime stargazing locations in Utah, Arizona, and Idaho. For British and Irish travellers, a weaker dollar against the pound and more competitive airfares enhance the appeal of a US holiday.
Mozambique: A Bush and Beach Destination
Tom Barber, co-founder of Original Travel, recommends Mozambique for 2026, noting that while travel to the northern region bordering Tanzania is currently advised against, the rest of the East African country remains a hot list contender. He observes that the country has been unfairly generalised, leading to under-tourism.
Gorongosa National Park, revitalised after devastation in the 1990s civil war, has seen new lodge openings this year. "They've done an amazing conservation effort," Barber notes, highlighting wildlife including lions, elephants, buffalo, and antelope. Mozambique now offers a combined safari and beach experience, with stunning islands and exceptional diving featuring whale sharks, mantas, dolphins, and sea turtles.
Kyrgyzstan: Central Asia's Best-Kept Secret
Kyrgyzstan serves as a lovely counterpoint to better-known Uzbekistan, offering mountains, walking, and riding with incredible views. A 2026 documentary by Alexandra Tolstoy is set to showcase the country's unspoiled natural beauty, with recommended sites like Köl-Suu lake, Köl-Tör Lake, and the Sary-Chelek Biosphere Reserve.
The capital Bishkek boasts a burgeoning foodie and nightlife scene. Travel company Intrepid has introduced a new itinerary for 2026, 'Trekking the Tien Shan Trails' (10 days, from £1,545 per person), which follows nomadic trails past mountains and lakes, with overnight stays in traditional yurts.
Colombia: Cultural and Culinary Renewal
Colombia is emerging as one of Latin America's most inspiring examples of cultural, culinary, and creative renewal, with luxury brands taking note. Lonely Planet named Cartagena one of their top 10 places to visit in 2026, and the new Four Seasons Cartagena is scheduled to open early in the year in the Getsemaní neighbourhood, adjacent to the UNESCO-listed Walled City.
Both Bogotá and the Medellin region are gaining popularity, with Guatape village and El Penol highly recommended. The destination retains an immersive, authentic feel, even for those opting for higher-priced holidays.
South Korea: Riding the K-Wave
South Korea's global influence, from K-pop to Korean skincare, continues to grow, with travel interest set to increase. Virgin Atlantic will launch its first direct flight from London Heathrow to Seoul in March 2026.
Jeju-Do, Korea's largest island, featured at number 17 on Lonely Planet's list, offers beaches and lush greenery as a perfect contrast to Seoul. Barber points to the opening of a Janu hotel in Seoul, Aman's Gen Z-focused brand, as a factor that will boost travel alongside new flights and the K-wave phenomenon.
Georgia: Eastern Europe's Rising Star
EasyJet launched a new flight route from London Luton to Tbilisi in late 2025, and Georgia is poised to attract more visitors with additional international routes in 2026, emerging from Turkey's shadow. Barber describes it as a "fabulous country" set for popularity.
Tbilisi features grand boulevards, cobbled streets in the historic old town, and famous sulphur baths. Beyond the capital, ancient monasteries and cathedrals, including the UNESCO-listed Gelati Monastery in Kutaisi, await. Visitors praise Georgia's incredible food and its ancient wine-making industry, believed to date back 8,000 years.
