Top travel destinations for 2026 / Best places to visit this year
- barbara6469
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
From Italy’s timeless charm to Brazil’s coastal rhythm—discover the best places to travel in 2026 and when to go
If you’re wondering where to travel in 2026, I’ve got a fantastic list for you! It brings together the most inspiring destinations around the world, combining the classics you love with emerging gems you’ll want to visit before everyone else does.
Perennial favorites worth revisiting
Italy – A timeless favorite for food, art, and soul
Italy continues to top every “best places to travel” list for 2026. From Rome’s cobblestone streets and Florence’s galleries to Puglia’s coastal villages and the Dolomites’ scenic trails, it’s endlessly inspiring.
Best time to visit Italy: May–June and September–October.
Japan – Tradition meets innovation
Japan balances the spiritual calm of Kyoto with the vibrant pulse of Tokyo and the culinary heart of Osaka.
Best time to visit Japan: Late March–April (cherry blossoms) or October–November (autumn colors).
New Zealand – Adventure with a peaceful heart
From Queenstown to Milford Sound, New Zealand is a dream for nature lovers and road trippers.
Best time to visit New Zealand: December–March for summer; November–April for shoulder season calm.
France & Spain – Romance and rhythm in every region
Experience Parisian art, Provence’s lavender fields, Barcelona’s vibrant streets, and Andalusia’s sun-drenched charm.
Best time to visit France and Spain: May–June or September–October.
Scandinavia – Serenity under the midnight sun
The Nordic countries—Norway, Sweden, and Denmark—offer design, tranquility, and stunning fjord landscapes.
Best time to visit Scandinavia: June–August.
Destinations of the year
Brazil – Vibrant, diverse, and named Destination of the Year
From art to adventure, Brazil is one of 2026’s top travel destinations:
Minas Gerais – A southeastern state known for colonial architecture, artisan towns like Ouro Preto, and mountainous beauty.
Paraty – A UNESCO-listed coastal town between Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, ideal for art lovers and nature seekers.
Fernando de Noronha – A remote island paradise off the northeast coast, home to Brazil’s clearest waters and top diving spots.
Best time to visit Brazil: December–March (Carnival and summer) or September–October (mild, sunny days).
Antarctica & the polar regions – Earth’s untouched frontier
For travelers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime journey, expedition cruises to Antarctica are surging.
Best time to visit Antarctica: November–March (wildlife-rich season).
Tanzania – The world’s best safari destination
From the Serengeti’s Great Migration to the Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania is the definition of wild wonder.
Best time to visit Tanzania: June–October or January–February.
Emerging & under-the-radar gems
Dominica – The Caribbean’s Nature Island
Perfect for travelers who prefer waterfalls to crowds. Explore lush trails, hot springs, and eco-luxury resorts.
Best time to visit Dominica: December–May.
Slovenia – Europe’s green heart
Nestled between Italy, Austria, Hungary, and Croatia, Slovenia combines Alpine landscapes with Mediterranean ease.Similar to: Austria’s scenery meets Croatia’s warmth.
Best time to visit Slovenia: May–September.
Georgia (the country) – At the crossroads of Europe and Asia
Bordered by Turkey, Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Russia, Georgia is where ancient wine culture meets stunning mountain beauty.
Similar to: Greece and Turkey, with its own soulful twist.
Best time to visit Georgia: May–June and September–October.
City breaks & cultural escapes
Tampere, Finland
A 2026 European Capital of Smart Tourism known for lakeside calm and modern creativity.
Best time to visit: May–August.
Itinerary idea: Pair Helsinki–Tampere–Stockholm for an elegant Nordic loop.
Brussels, Belgium & Hamburg, Germany
Great for food lovers, architecture buffs, and design enthusiasts.
Best time to visit: Late April–June or September–October.
Itinerary idea: Paris–Brussels–Hamburg by rail for culture and cuisine.
Warsaw, Poland & Madrid, Spain
Affordable, full of flavor, and ideal for a quick escape.
Best time to visit: Late April–June or September–October.
Itinerary idea: Combine Warsaw–Kraków for history or Madrid–Seville for art and sunshine.
Stateside inspiration
Bold Coast, Maine
A rugged alternative to the busier Bar Harbor region. Perfect for lighthouses, blueberries, and lobster rolls.
Best time to visit Maine: July–September.
Sedona, Arizona
Red rock trails, creative energy, and a soulful desert calm.
Best time to visit Sedona: March–May or September–November.
Charleston, South Carolina
Historic charm and Southern hospitality meet ocean breezes.
Best time to visit Charleston: March–June or September–November.
How to choose your 2026 adventure
Quick & easy getaways: Mexico, Costa Rica, or Dominica
One-stop European classics: Italy, Spain, Portugal, or Scandinavia
Bucket-list journeys: New Zealand, Brazil, Tanzania, or Antarctica
Closer to home: Maine, Arizona, or South Carolina
Culture-rich city combos: Helsinki–Tampere–Stockholm; Brussels–Hamburg; Warsaw–Madrid
Travel smarter, not busier
At Suite Dreams Travel, we make travel planning simple, seamless, and personal. Whether you’re craving stillness, connection, or adventure, 2026 is your year to experience the world differently.
Let’s plan your 2026 journey
We are Suite Dreams Travel, based near Salt Lake City, Utah. We help you plan trips that actually feel good. Travel that takes care of you, too.