Where to travel in 2026: Time Out names the 10 most promising tourist destinations in the world

Global tourism in 2026 offers new destinations and vacation formats. Find out which 10 places in the world Time Out has named the most promising for travel and why they are worth your attention

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The New Year is traditionally a time for planning future trips. Some tourists already have clear itineraries, while others are just looking at options, assessing trends, infrastructure, and new opportunities for recreation. For those who are still looking for ideas, Time Out has published a list of the 10 most attractive tourist destinations in the world in 2026.

The selection includes natural locations, cultural centers, and gastronomic regions that combine new experiences, active development of tourist infrastructure, and growing interest from travelers around the world.

Canadian Rockies: nature and thermal relaxation

One of the main discoveries of the ranking was the Canadian Rockies. In 2025, the new BASIN Glacial Waters thermal wellness resort, which took more than two decades to develop, opened on the shores of Lake Louise. Designed by Matteo Thun, the space offers panoramic views of the mountains and the bright blue waters of the lake.

The focus is on thermal bathing: cold dips, hot stones, and a Finnish sauna with Scandinavian Aufguss rituals. After the procedures, guests can dive directly into the icy waters of one of Canada's most famous lakes.

Rabat, Morocco: the cultural renaissance of the capital

In recent years, tourist flows in Morocco have shifted from Marrakesh to Agadir, Casablanca, and Essaouira. However, according to Time Out's predictions, 2026 will be the year of Rabat.

The city is preparing for the opening of the Royal Theater of Rabat, a futuristic building with 1,800 seats and an amphitheater for 7,000 spectators, designed by Zaha Hadid. In addition, Rabat will receive the status of UNESCO World Book Capital in April. Opening ceremonies, seminars, master classes, and public reading marathons are planned for this event.

Algodons, Bahia, Brazil: beaches without crowds

Against the backdrop of the growing popularity of the Marau Peninsula, the village of Algodões in southern Bahia is coming to the forefront of tourism. This almost untouched area attracts visitors with its “picture-perfect” beaches, rivers flowing into the sea, and the relaxed atmosphere of its beach bars.

The hotel infrastructure is actively developing here, with Vila Oya standing out for its local cuisine and fresh seafood. Must-do activities include a boat trip on Camamu Bay with a visit to the Tremembé waterfall.

Hamburg, Germany: a city of culture and the future

Hamburg, Germany's second-largest city, has long established itself as a cultural capital. The wave-like Elbphilharmonie and one of the country's largest art museums, the Hamburger Kunsthalle, have become part of the city's symbol.

In 2026, Europe's largest digital art museum, the UBS Digital Art Museum, will open here, as well as a new opera house in HafenCity with multi-level roof gardens. Combined with renovated military bunkers and green lakes, the city is ideal for a busy urban weekend.

Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand: a hiker's paradise

Hiking remains one of the top travel trends, and Aoraki/Mount Cook, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is considered one of the best places for hiking. In the fall of 2026, New Zealand's longest suspension footbridge, measuring 189 meters, will open here.

Travelers are advised to spend the night in the village of Mount Cook and then head to Lake Tekapo, the largest dark sky reserve in the Southern Hemisphere.

Tip: When planning trips abroad in 2026, it is important to remember basic safety precautions. Medical insurance is a prerequisite for most trips, and Ukrainians can purchase a policy for traveling abroad online through Visit Ukraine, without wasting time on paperwork.

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Mendoza, Argentina: more than just wine

Mendoza is one of the world's leading wine capitals, located between the Uco, Lujan de Cuyo, and Maipu valleys. The region has long attracted wine lovers, but its tourism potential is much broader.

The gastronomic scene here ranges from simple local establishments to world-class restaurants. Tourists can choose from budget hotels and designer vineyard complexes with views of the Andes. In addition to wine tastings, the region offers horseback riding, hiking, and rafting.

Sirenester, England: an alternative to mass tourism

After the village of Bibury in the Cotswolds was named the most beautiful in the world, the region faced the problem of overtourism. Sirenester is offered as a more sustainable alternative.

The town combines different architectural styles, Roman heritage (the Corinium Museum and amphitheater), a lively market, and a wide selection of pubs and restaurants. It is also a convenient base for exploring the less crowded parts of the Cotswolds.

Central Vietnam: a new level of comfort

Central Vietnam will become one of the most prominent tourist destinations in 2026. New international flights to Danang and the opening of Nobu Hotel Danang, a 43-story beachfront hotel with signature fusion cuisine, are changing the region's tourism landscape.

North of Hue, the imperial city is undergoing a major cultural renaissance, and the upcoming Grand Royal Riverside Hue, with its wellness focus, complements the offering for tourists.

Nepal: digital detox and spiritual practices

In 2026, Nepal will shift its focus from mass tourism to wellness tourism and mindful relaxation. New ecolodges are emerging, including Dwarika's Sanctuary with transformative holistic programs.

Even Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, will get a modern Crowne Plaza hotel, and for city life, tourists are advised to stay at the new Moxy Kathmandu.

Favignana, Sicily: an island before the movie boom

The island of Favignana, off the west coast of Sicily, will attract special attention thanks to Christopher Nolan's film Interstellar. Turquoise seas, cinematic beaches, and rural charm make it one of the most attractive destinations — without the crowds.

We remind you! Gastronomic tourism is becoming one of the main travel trends in the world. Read about which countries and regions the Michelin Guide has recognized as the best gastronomic destinations for travel in 2026.

Photo: CHRIS AMAT

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