A new year has begun - and tourists are already planning new travels. Some have even already planned them. For those still in the process of choosing, Time Out has published a list of the most promising tourist destinations for 2026. The list includes natural locations, gastronomic regions, and cultural capitals. The selection features places that, according to the authors, combine new experiences, infrastructure development, and growing interest from travelers.
1. Canadian Rockies
In 2025, a new thermal wellness resort, BASIN Glacial Waters, opened on the shores of Lake Louise, developed over more than two decades. If the Canadian Rockies have long been on your list, this stylish spa is a significant reason to go there, the publication claims. The space, designed by Matteo Thun, overlooks the mountains and the bright blue waters of the lake.
At the same time, the soothing landscape is as impressive as the treatments themselves. There is an emphasis on thermal bathing: cold plunges, hot stones, a Finnish sauna with Scandinavian Aufguss rituals. After the spa, you can plunge directly into the icy waters of one of Canada’s most famous lakes.
2. Rabat, Morocco
In recent years, tourists' attention has gradually shifted from Marrakech to Agadir, Casablanca, and Essaouira. However, 2026 will be the year of Rabat – thanks to the city’s cultural renaissance. The Royal Theatre of Rabat is set to open – a futuristic building with 1,800 seats and an amphitheater for 7,000 spectators, designed by British architect Zaha Hadid.
In April, on World Book Day, Rabat will become the UNESCO World Capital of Books. To mark the occasion, there will be an opening ceremony, workshops, master classes, and even a public reading marathon, the publication reported.
3. Algodões, Bahia, Brazil
The Maraú Peninsula has been attracting attention for several years, and now the village of Algodões is coming to the forefront. This almost untouched part of southern Bahia impresses with its "postcard" beaches, rivers flowing into the sea, and laid-back beach bars where coconut water and caipirinhas are enjoyed without taking your feet off the sand.
The hotel infrastructure is also flourishing here, with Vila Oya standing out for its local cuisine and fresh seafood. A must-visit is a boat trip through the Camamu Bay with the Tremembé waterfall.
4. Hamburg, Germany
Germany's second-largest city has long been a cultural capital. Take, for example, the wave-shaped Elbphilharmonie concert hall, which is now part of the cityscape, or the Hamburg Kunsthalle – one of the largest art museums in Germany.
In 2026, the largest digital art museum in Europe, the UBS Digital Art Museum, will open here. Plans also include a new opera in HafenCity with multi-level rooftop gardens. When you add updated military bunkers and green lakes, it becomes clear why Hamburg is perfect for a city weekend.
5. Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand
Hiking is on trend, and this region from the UNESCO World Heritage list is considered ideal for hiking. In the fall, the longest suspension pedestrian bridge in the country, measuring 189 meters, will open here.
Additionally, the authors of the article suggest staying in the Mount Cook village for at least one night and then driving an hour to Lake Tekapo – the largest dark sky reserve in the Southern Hemisphere.
6. Mendoza, Argentina
Mendoza is not just a wine region but one of the most important wine capitals in the world. It is located among legendary areas such as the Uco Valley, Luján de Cuyo, and Maipú. The region has long been attractive for wine tourism.
But it’s not just about wine here. The local gastronomic scene ranges from simple and casual spots perfect for lunch breaks to outstanding world-renowned restaurants where dishes are often paired with local wines, the publication states.
Accommodation options range from affordable hotels to architecturally impressive vineyard hotels with views of the Andes. Besides tastings, the province offers horseback riding, hiking, rafting, and other exciting outdoor activities.
7. Cirencester, England
In 2025, the incredibly picturesque Bibury in the Cotswolds was named the most beautiful village in the world; however, this title came at a challenging time, as the tiny settlement suffers significantly from overtourism. A more sustainable alternative is offered by Cirencester – a no less beautiful town in Gloucestershire that can actually accommodate large flows of visitors.
With its ideal location for traveling to less crowded (but no less beautiful) corners of the region, the largest settlement in the Cotswolds has many charms of its own. Various architectural styles harmoniously blend here, rich Roman heritage is represented in the Corinium Museum and amphitheater, excellent shopping opportunities at local markets, as well as a wide selection of pubs and restaurants.
8. Central Vietnam
Central Vietnam is set to become one of the most notable tourist destinations in 2026, writes Time Out. It is easy to get here thanks to new international flights arriving at Da Nang Airport, and the city skyline will undergo significant changes with the opening of Nobu Hotel Danang – a 43-story beachfront luxury hotel along with Nobu's signature Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine.
A little further north, the ancient capital of Hue is experiencing a true royal renaissance: large-scale cultural restorations of the imperial city are ongoing. And if you tire of the daily routine, the upcoming Grand Royal Riverside Hue hotel with a focus on wellness will be a true salvation.
9. Nepal
Nepal has always attracted hikers and backpackers with its majestic peaks and cozy guesthouses. In 2026, the focus shifts from less crowded routes, such as Mardi Himal and Pikey Peak, to "stargazing" at the Himalayan Hideaway Resort.
Eco-friendly and wellness spaces are actively emerging here, particularly the legendary Dwarika’s Sanctuary, which recently launched a transformational holistic program with a minimum stay – a new gold standard for digital detox. Even the sacred city of Lumbini is getting a new modern Crowne Plaza, making the journey to the birthplace of Buddha as comfortable as possible.
For urban drive, it’s worth staying at the new Moxy Kathmandu – an ideal base for exploring creative spaces like Bagaichā, a Japanese restaurant and art gallery in Patan, the authors recommend.
10. Favignana, Sicily
Christopher Nolan's film "Odyssey" will draw attention to the island of Favignana, 18 kilometers off the western coast of Sicily, which is considered the "goat island" where Homer's hero stopped to replenish supplies before meeting the Cyclops.
The dazzlingly beautiful beaches and turquoise sea look no less cinematic in real life, and the island's interior is full of rural charm. The authors of the ranking advise to visit before the crowds of film travel enthusiasts arrive.
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