Travel experts have unveiled their curated list of the seven hottest destinations to visit in 2026, offering inspiration for every type of traveller. From the bohemian charm of Spanish islands to the unspoiled wilderness of Central Asia, these locations are backed by industry insiders and set to dominate travel conversations 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. The coastline offers a mix of quiet calas and long sandy beaches, all supported by well-developed infrastructure and short transfer times.
"Local authorities are tightening rules on party boats, noisy beach activities, and illegal rentals to control over-tourism and protect quality of life," Richardson notes. This sustainability push aims to foster a calmer, more authentic tourism style. A new wave of luxury hotels, including the Mandarin Oriental Punta Negra, is set to open this year, enhancing the island's appeal.
The United States: Anniversaries and Sporting Spotlight
While not an emerging destination, the United States offers compelling reasons to visit in 2026. This year marks the 250th anniversary of US independence and the 100th anniversary of Route 66, the iconic 2,400-mile highway. Additionally, the US will co-host the FIFA World Cup, shining a sporting spotlight on cities like Atlanta, Miami, Boston, Seattle, Philadelphia, Dallas, and Kansas City.
Dark sky tourism is predicted to be huge, with prime stargazing locations in Utah, Arizona, and Idaho. A weakening dollar against the pound and more competitive airfares are making US holidays more attractive to British and Irish travellers.
Mozambique: Bush and Beach Paradise
Tom Barber, co-founder of Original Travel, advises that while travel to Mozambique's north region bordering Tanzania is not recommended, the rest of the East African country remains a hot list contender for 2026. He notes that the country has been unfairly tarred with a broad brush, reducing visitor numbers unnecessarily.
Gorongosa National Park, restored after devastation in the 1990s civil war, has seen new lodges open this year. "They've done an amazing conservation effort," Barber says, highlighting lions, elephants, buffalo, and antelope. Mozambique can now be considered a 'bush and beach' destination, offering safaris combined with beach breaks on its beautiful islands, with incredible 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, with its mountains, walking, and riding opportunities offering incredible views. A 2026 documentary by Alexandra Tolstoy is set to highlight the country's unspoiled and diverse natural beauty, including sites like Köl-Suu lake, Köl-Tör Lake, and the Sary-Chelek Biosphere Reserve.
The capital Bishkek boasts a booming foodie and nightlife scene. Travel company Intrepid has added a new Kyrgyzstan itinerary for 2026: Trekking the Tien Shan Trails (10 days, from £1,545pp), 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 finally taking note. Lonely Planet named Cartagena one of their top 10 places to visit in 2026, and the new Four Seasons Cartagena is set to open early in the year in the Getsemaní neighbourhood, next to the UNESCO-listed Walled City.
Bogotá and the Medellin region are also having a moment, with Guatape village and El Penol highly recommended. The destination retains an immersive, authentic feel even for higher-priced holidays.
South Korea: Riding the K-Wave
From K-pop to Korean skincare, South Korea is experiencing a cultural surge, with interest set to grow further. Virgin Atlantic will launch its first direct flight from London Heathrow to Seoul in March 2026. Jeju-Do, Korea's largest island, made Lonely Planet's list at number 17, offering beaches and lush greenery as a perfect antidote to Seoul's urban energy.
Barber notes that Janu, the Gen Z-focused brand from Aman hotels, is opening a premise in Seoul. "With the K-wave, new flights, and new funky hotels, it's definitely going to push Seoul travel along," he says.
Georgia: Eastern Europe's Hidden Gem
EasyJet launched a new flight route from London Luton to Tbilisi in late 2025, and Georgia is set to attract more visitors with additional international routes in 2026, emerging from neighbour Turkey's shadow. "It's definitely a fabulous country, it will be popular," Barber asserts.
Tbilisi features grand boulevards, cobbled streets in the historic old town, and famous sulphur baths. Outside the capital, ancient monasteries and cathedrals, including the UNESCO-anointed Gelati Monastery in Kutaisi, await. Visitors praise Georgia's incredible food and the world's oldest wine-making industry, dating back 8,000 years.
