Wanderlust · 7 min read · October 22, 2025

Our top picks for trips in 2026

These are the destinations you need to add to your itinerary for next year.

Short on time? Let us summarise this guide for you.

Chase tropical sun in Jaffna and Palawan, or go extreme for the Northern Lights in Svalbard. Find relaxed surf in Avalon Beach and ancient ruins in Cashel. Seek out intimate charm in the Kerkennah Islands, iconic culture in Mostar, and the Silk Road aesthetic of Khiva. Get your classic aesthetic fix in Kotor and try the "new" Greek island of Mytilene. Head to Istria for Adriatic charm and truffle hunts, discover medieval Bra?ov and the cultural moment in Genoa, or ditch the crowds at Machu Picchu for Kuelap, Peru. Finish strong with the rush of Hong Kong, the samba beats of Salvador, Brazil, a fairytale Christmas in Colmar, France, and humbling adventures in Chilean Patagonia and the wild Caribbean heart of Dominica.

We've looked back on last year's trends and using our insider knowledge of what's coming up next year in the travel industry, we've come up with a list of 20 destinations we think are going to be popular in 2026.

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January to March

Jaffna | Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka was the biggest riser on our Good Trip Index in 2025 so it's ideal for guilt-free tropical getaway. Jaffna lies on the island's northern tip, and it's filled with intricate temples and guarded by the star-shaped Jaffna Fort. The weather at this time of year lends itself more to exploring the colourful streets and the scenic lagoons that are home to thousands of migratory birds. And it's still hot enough for flopping on the beach.

Svalbard | Norway

We're going from one extreme to the other. The Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard is about as far north as you can go without reaching the actual North Pole. Polar bears roam free and almost half the year is spent in total darkness. The upside? You've got the chance to see the Northern Lights at any time of day.

Avalon Beach | Australia

Move over Bondi, because it's Avalon Beach's time to shine. This relaxed alternative to Sydney's most popular surf spot, where the locals go to avoid the bigger crowds at Bondi. The beach itself is a haven for both surfers and swimmers, with endless stretches of sand making sure there's a perfect spot for everyone to chill under the sun. The town behind the beach brings the vibes with its organic bakeries, yoga studios, street markets and trendy coffee shops – it's flip-flops meet flat whites.

Palawan | Philippines

Isolated and exotic, Palawan is at its best right in the middle of the British winter. Swap the cold and grey for the vibrant green coast of this jaw-dropping archipelago. The scuba diving is world class, but if that's not your vibe we challenge you to resist the urge to jump into the warm, indigo water.

Cashel | Ireland

For a quieter, more authentic slice of Ireland, you can't go wrong with Cashel, just an hour out from Shannon airport. Think wide open fields, crumbling ruins and more pubs than you can count on both hands. Don't miss the Rock of Cashel – it's a big medieval castle perched high on a limestone cliff. Very dramatic. Plus you can do it all in a day from Gatwick if you really wanted to.

April to June

Kerkennah Islands | Tunisia

Sprinkled off Tunisia's east coast, you can reach these little-known islands by ferry from Sfax. It's long-haul but not too long-haul, and absolutely ideal for a simple, intimate getaway. There are no big resorts or high-rise hotels. Instead you can expect more of a focus on tradition and simplicity in a quiet corner of the Mediterranean.

Mostar | Bosnia and Herzegovina

The Stari Most, or Old Bridge, is Mostar's most iconic landmark. It arches gracefully across the Neretva river, symbolising the city's mix of eastern and western cultures. Feeling brave? Jump from the top into the river below for the ultimate thrill.

Khiva | Uzbekistan

Only got time for one stop on the Silk Road? Make sure it's Khiva. The mudstone brick, romantic minarets and car-free alleys give it such a unique feel. And in the light of the Kyzylkum desert sunset it all hits different. And big news, the silk railroad has now been electrified with high-speed trains due to connect the city to the rest of the country next year. Go there before the crowds cotton on.

Kotor | Montenegro

If cafes, cobblestones and a glass-still bay flanked by steep mountains is what you're after then don't mess about. Kotor is the OG when it comes to that aesthetic. You've seen the pictures on Insta, now take some of your own. For the best angle, take the 1,350 steps up San Giovanni Fortress – a medieval marvel with panoramic views over the bay.

Mytilene | Greece

Hey, a new Greek island just dropped. The Greek islands are a sure bet for a beach holiday with high temperatures and loads of ancient history for the culture buffs, so if you want to try a different one this time, Lesvos has you covered. The ouzo is pretty much on tap, the seafood is fresh and the air is enriched with the scent of pine.

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July to September

Istria | Croatia

Istria is peak Adriatic charm – picture rolling vineyards, seaside towns, hilltop villages, and pastel-coloured harbours washed by the rich blue sea. Check out Pula's Roman amphitheatre and the truffle-hiding hills of Motovun Forest. Book yourself onto a truffle-hunting tour (yes, it's a thing) and pair them with the fine wines of the region.

Guernsey | Channel Islands

Cliffside paths, hidden coves and seafood suppers define this charming Channel Island. It's the second largest of the Channel Islands after Jersey, and while part of the British isles it's actually far closer to France – just 30 miles off the coast of Normandy. While Guernsey generally refers to the island, there are a number of smaller islands including Sark and Herm which together make up the Bailiwick of Guernsey – home to around 60,000 people.

Brasov | Romania

Ringed by the Carpathians, Brasov feels like a medieval storybook come to life. Its Gothic spires, cafe-lined squares and cobbled streets lead to castles and mountain trails beyond. It's also your gateway into Transylvania and Bran Castle – the Saxon fortress that inspired Bram Stoker's iconic book .

Genoa | Italy

After an Italian city break but already completed Rome and Florence? Give Genoa a go. It's having a bit of a cultural moment, or renaissance if you're fancy, and if anyone knows about a renaissance it's the Italians. Wander its tangled alleys in search of marble churches, Renaissance palaces and the scent of fresh pesto drifting from trattorias.

Kuelap | Peru

This pre-Columbian city in the clouds is a freshly-restored alternative to the much-admired but often-overcrowded Machu Picchu. It's older than its more famous cousin, giving it more of a crumbly, ruined feel, but if lost cities in the Andes are your travel niche, then Kuelap will definitely scratch that itch. Add it to your itinerary.

Pick your next destination based on vibes

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October to December

Hong Kong

From dim sum brunches to night markets and hidden temples, Hong Kong is a rush of contrasts and energy. Home to as many three-star Michelin restaurants as London, it's a way to experience the best of China while avoiding the worst.

Salvador | Brazil

Colonial facades, drumbeats and tropical heat define Salvador's Afro-Brazilian soul. It's a city alive with rhythm – where every street corner feels like a celebration. Between sea breezes and samba beats, Salvador's energy is infectious and unforgettable. Beyond the city, it's a gateway to the Chapada Diamantina nature reserve and nearby lesser-known beach breaks that rival Rio's without the crowds.

Chilean Patagonia

A land of glaciers, turquoise lakes and jagged peaks that scrape the sky. Patagonia's vast beauty humbles and exhilarates – pure adventure at the edge of the world. Don't miss Torres del Paine National Park, where granite towers rise over glacial lakes and herds of guanacos roam beneath endless skies.

Colmar | France

Straight out of a fairytale, Colmar's canals, timbered houses and flower-decked bridges glow with Alsatian charm. A sweet spot for wine, art and romantic strolls. Come December, its Christmas markets turn the town into a winter dreamscape.

Dominica | Caribbean

Untamed and lush, Dominica is the Caribbean's wild heart. Volcanoes, waterfalls and coral reefs make it a paradise for those who prefer nature's drama over polished resorts. Its spirit is raw and grounding – a reminder that paradise can still feel wild. The new international airport is ahead of schedule, and if it opens as planned in 2026 you can be one of the first to explore the newly-accessible island.