Travel Your Way: Tripeden.com Unveils 2026’s Must-Visit Places
Tripeden.com’s annual Travel Predictions research* reveals that in 2026, travelers are designing trips as unique as they are– curating journeys that reflect exactly who they are, what they want, and what they love. Whether open to traveling with a potential romantic partner, co-worker or new friend to test their compatibility (69%), using technology to locate and visit spots tied to personal memories (66%) or chasing the cosmic rhythm of a trip aligning with their horoscope (39%), 2026 marks the rise of trips that are more individual, more experimental, and more unapologetically true to who travelers really are. Along with its annual Predictions, Tripeden.com, one of the world’s leading travel platforms, has delved into its data insights** to uncover the Trending Destinations set to become must-visit vacation spots in 2026. These destinations, too, are about embracing what lights travelers up, from fishing villages turned coastal gems to reimagined industrial hubs offering visitors the buzz of city life.
Mũi Né, Vietnam
On Vietnam’s sun-kissed southeast coast, Mũi Né offers a dreamy blend of natural beauty, local culture, and adventure. What was once a quiet fishing village has now transformed into a laid-back beach escape known for its golden sands, swaying coconut palms, and consistent ocean breezes that make it a mecca for kite surfing and wind sports. Just a four-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City, Mũi Né feels worlds away with its unique landscapes ranging from the surreal Red and White Sand Dunes to the peaceful Fairy Stream where travelers can wade through shallow waters surrounded by striking rock formations. Ideal for the 40% who are looking to visit a travel destination inspired by fantasy landscapes fit for the pages of a book, as this year’s Travel Predictions research reveals the rise in Romantasy Retreats. Along the coast, beach shacks serve up fresh seafood, including grilled scallops and spicy lemongrass clams, while nearby fishing ports offer glimpses of traditional Vietnamese life. Beyond the beaches, a low-key mix of local markets, ancient temples, and coastal villages allow visitors to absorb a richer slice of Vietnam.
Where to stay: Nestled along a private stretch of beachfront, the Sailing Club Resort Mũi Né is an ideal coastal boutique retreat with tropical gardens and a relaxed, elegant vibe. With just 31 rooms, bungalows, and villas, the resort blends contemporary comfort with Vietnamese design touches. Guests can unwind by the beachfront pool, enjoy fresh seafood at Sandals Restaurant, or take advantage of kite surfing lessons right from the resort’s doorstep.
Bilbao, Spain
Once an industrial hub, Bilbao has transformed into one of Europe’s most exciting cultural destinations, famed for its striking architecture and world-class art. The iconic Guggenheim Museum anchors a shimmering riverside, symbolizing the city’s modern, unapologetic transformation alongside the natural beauty of the surrounding Basque hills. Bilbao’s compact old town, or Casco Viejo, charms visitors with its narrow medieval streets, bustling pintxos bars, and street markets. As the culinary capital of the Basque Country, Bilbao possesses everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to casual taverns serving regional specialties. Make sure to stop at Mercado de la Ribera, Europe’s largest covered food market built in 1929, and situated in an elegant art deco building. Set on Spain’s northern Cantabrian coast, Bilbao reveals a side of the country many don’t expect: rugged shorelines, misty mountains, and a lush, green landscape far removed from the typical sun-soaked Mediterranean image. With easy access to coastal towns and surf beaches where travelers can discover the gems of the Bay of Biscay, plus a scenic countryside, Bilbao has something for every taste.
Where to stay: For an intimate stay in the heart of Bilbao, Bilder Boutique Hotel offers a cozy base with 39 stylish rooms. Tucked near the bustling Plaza Berria, this charming boutique hotel puts travelers within easy reach of the city’s historic gems, including the Casa del Jaspe and Palacio Salcedo. With contemporary design touches, attentive service, and a prime location for exploring the Old Town and the nearby Guggenheim Museum, Bilder Boutique Hotel is a perfect pick for those seeking a hip Bilbao experience.
Barranquilla, Colombia
Barranquilla pulses with tropical pride on Colombia’s northern Caribbean coast, set along the banks of the Magdalena River. The city comes alive each year during the UNESCO-listed Carnaval de Barranquilla, a spectacular celebration of parades, cumbia rhythms, and dazzling costumes. A moment where the city comes alive in self-celebration. Beyond carnival season, visitors can stroll the modern Malecón del Río for river views and open-air events or wander through the leafy El Prado district, home to historic mansions, vibrant street art, and cozy cafés. Local flavors shine in dishes like butifarra sausages, coconut rice, and fresh seafood. Just a two-hour drive from Cartagena, Barranquilla is a colorful, under-the-radar escape where river life, music, and community come together in a uniquely Colombian way. Plus, it’s the hometown of a certain global superstar whose famously ‘honest’ hips have captivated the world.
Where to stay: Travelers can soak up Barranquilla’s heritage at Hotel El Prado, an iconic landmark welcoming guests since 1930. Known for its elegant historical Spanish architecture and palm-lined gardens, the hotel welcomes guests with bright, classic rooms and a serene outdoor pool that feels like a hidden oasis. Guests can savor traditional Colombian fare at the on-site restaurant or enjoy a cocktail by the poolside terrace. Perfectly situated for exploring either the Modern Art Museum or the Carnival Museum, Hotel El Prado offers a timeless base to experience Barranquilla’s culture and history.
Philadelphia, USA
Steeped in history yet brimmed with modern energy, Philadelphia is a city where the story of the United States’ founding collides with a thriving contemporary culture. The Pennsylvanian city holds a unique place in U.S. history, home to Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed. With the country’s Semiquincentennial approaching in 2026, the city will take center stage in commemorating 250 years of independence, offering visitors a front-row seat to historic celebrations. Alongside these landmark moments, Philly is also preparing to host major sporting events like the FIFA World Cup, MLB All-Star Game, and NCAA March Madness, making it a true hub of history, sports, and entertainment. Travelers can delve deeper into the city’s past on The Constitutional Walking Tour of Philadelphia, exploring “America’s Most Historic Square Mile” on foot. The city’s walkable neighborhoods like Old City and Fishtown brim with vibrant street art, like the famous Mural Mile, while its diverse food scene spans iconic cheesesteaks to award-winning restaurants. The City of Brotherly Love guarantees a memorable and dynamic urban escape.
Where to stay: With Philadelphia gearing up for a landmark year in 2026, group travel to the city is surely set to soar. This spacious three-bedroom apartment, located in the Francisville neighborhood, has a full kitchen, private terrace, and plenty of room to unwind. Guests can enjoy on-site perks including a gym, game room, and free WiFi. Within walking distance of downtown attractions and just a 20-minute stroll from the iconic Franklin Institute, this property makes it easy to explore the best of Philly by day and relax in comfort together at night.
Guangzhou, China
Guangzhou is a buzzing metropolis of over 18 million people, yet it remains under the radar for many travelers to China. One of the country’s oldest trading ports and a key hub on the ancient Maritime Silk Road, this southern city brims with cultural heritage, from centuries-old temples and traditional dim sum teahouses to the impressive facades of Shamian Island. Today, Guangzhou seamlessly blends history with modernity: soaring skyscrapers like the iconic Canton Tower and vast industrial districts reflect its status as a global economic powerhouse. A river cruise along the Pearl River offers an unforgettable vantage point of the dazzling skyline. Food lovers are especially rewarded here as Guangzhou is the birthplace of Cantonese cuisine and boasts more restaurants per capita than any other Chinese city, also offering countless local food tours to sample its culinary treasures. With a year-round subtropical climate and close proximity to Hong Kong and Macau, Guangzhou is a vibrant, lesser known gateway to both old and new China.
Where to stay: Travelers to Guangzhou can indulge in sleek riverside luxury at Langham Place, located along the Pearl River. Spacious, contemporary rooms and suites feature panoramic views of the skyline or river, providing a stylish and sophisticated base to explore the city. Guests can unwind at the signature Chuan Spa, take a dip in the pool, or savor Cantonese delicacies at Ming Court, the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant.
Sal, Cape Verde
Sal is a sun-drenched island in Cape Verde, famed for its pristine praias brancas (white sand beaches), crystal-clear turquoise waters, and world-class windsurfing. Situated off the West African coast and just a four-hour flight from Portugal, Sal’s rich culture is a blend of African, Portuguese, and Creole influences, evident in its lively morna and funaná music scenes. Beyond the resorts, towns like Santa Maria buzz with colorful mercados, welcoming locals, and delicious seafood specialties such as catchupa, a hearty slow-cooked stew, and freshly grilled fish seasoned with local malagueta peppers and herbs. Nature lovers can explore the surreal salt flats of Pedra de Lume, rugged volcanic landscapes, and tranquil fishing villages where time seems to slow. The perfect backdrop for those looking to travel to indulge in their Hushed Hobbies in the year ahead, as 73% consider going fishing, birdwatching or another calm activity to foster a quiet, observant connection with the outdoors on their future travels. With year-round sunshine, a warm, welcoming vibe, and stunning ocean sunsets, Sal captures the soulful spirit of Cape Verde, where vibrant culture and natural beauty come alive in every corner of the island.
Where to stay: Set along a 4.9 mile (8-kilometer) stretch of pristine white sand, ROBINSON Cabo Verde, an adults only resort in Santa Maria, offers a spacious beachfront getaway on the island of Sal. Spanning over 400,000 square feet (37,160 square metres), the resort features two pools, a wellness area, and a wide range of activities from yoga and fitness classes to windsurfing and beach volleyball. Guests can choose from three restaurants and three bars, serving a variety of local and international flavors. With its laid-back atmosphere and direct access to one of Cape Verde’s most beautiful beaches, it’s a perfect spot for travelers looking to combine relaxation with adventure.
Manaus, Brazil
Surrounded by vast stretches of rainforest, Manaus is a metropolis like no other, set deep in the Brazilian Amazon and considered to be one of the most remote major cities in the world. Despite its isolation, Manaus is home to over two million people and bustles with urban energy while serving as the ultimate jumping-off point for exploring the Amazon’s extraordinary natural wonders. Visitors can witness the natural spectacle of the Meeting of Waters, where the inky Rio Negro and sandy Solimões rivers run side by side without mixing, before heading off on unforgettable river cruises and rainforest adventures. Within the city, you’ll find ornate landmarks like the Teatro Amazonas opera house, vibrant markets, and a food scene that celebrates native flavors, from tucupi (fermented manioc broth) and jambu (a numbing herb) to pirarucu fish and açaí straight from the source. Manaus delivers a striking blend of cultural vibrancy and wild nature, standing at the edge of the lungs of the Earth.
Where to stay: For an unforgettable rainforest experience, Ponta Poranga Jungle Lodge offers a remote escape deep within the Amazon, surrounded by lush jungle, winding rivers, and rich biodiversity. Guests can enjoy guided excursions, wildlife spotting, and authentic regional cuisine in a serene, natural setting. For those wishing to stay closer to Manaus’ urban heart, Hotel Villa Amazônia in the city center blends modern comfort with historic charm, just steps from the iconic Teatro Amazonas.
Munster, Germany
Charming and cycle-friendly, Münster is a picturesque city in western Germany that combines 1,200 years of history with a pulsing youthful energy. Known for its cobblestone streets, striking Gothic architecture, and laid-back atmosphere, Münster welcomes travelers with a slower-paced yet culturally rich urban feel. The historic Altstadt (Old Town), rebuilt after World War II, features iconic landmarks like St. Paulus Cathedral and Prinzipalmarkt’s arcaded walkways, while the scenic promenade, a green belt encircling the city center, is beloved by cyclists and walkers alike. Home to one of Germany’s largest universities, the city buzzes with student life, cozy cafés, and riverside beer gardens. For lovers of history, Münster also happens to be the birthplace of the Westphalian Peace Treaty, offering plenty of museums and sites to explore alongside its modern culinary and creative scenes.
Where to stay: Located in the heart of the city, Boardinghouse Münster is a modern, apartment-style accommodation ideal for travelers seeking flexibility and comfort, with fully equipped kitchens and easy access to Münster’s lively old town and museums. For those preferring a countryside backdrop, Landhaus Eggert sits just 5 miles (8-kilometers) from the city center, offering a peaceful rural setting with a spa featuring a sauna, Turkish steam room, and solarium, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
Kochi, India
Set on India’s southwestern coast in Kerala, Kochi is a waterfront city shaped by centuries of global trade and cultural exchange. Wander the atmospheric lanes of Fort Kochi, where colorful mansions sit beside hip art cafés, and iconic Chinese fishing nets sway against the Arabian Sea horizon. The city comes especially alive during the Kochi-Muziris Biennale (January to March), when historic warehouses transform into cutting-edge art spaces. Culinary traditions run deep, from toddy shops dishing out spicy seafood to refined plates of fish molee and coconut-rich thalis. Just beyond the city, Kerala’s landscapes await: glide through Alleppey’s backwaters, trek Munnar’s misty hills, or relax on the golden sands of Marari Beach. With easy access via Cochin International Airport, Kochi is the perfect soulful gateway to southern India’s natural beauty and cultural riches.
Where to stay: Set along charming Princess Street, Forte Kochi is a five-star heritage hotel blending timeless elegance with modern comforts. Housed in a beautifully restored building, the hotel features spacious rooms, a serene courtyard pool, and a historic Mikvah spring at its heart. Guests can savor traditional Kerala flavors and fresh seafood at the in-house restaurant, with top cultural sites like Jew Street, the Dutch Palace, and St. Francis Church just a short rickshaw ride away.
Port Douglas, Australia
Nestled on Australia’s tropical northeast coast, Port Douglas is a charming town that serves as the perfect base to two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Great Barrier Reef and the ancient Daintree Rainforest. Just a scenic one-hour drive from Cairns, or a three-hour flight from Sydney, Port Douglas mixes a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. Visitors can snorkel or dive among vibrant coral reefs by day, then explore lush rainforest trails or wildlife sanctuaries by afternoon. The town itself exudes coastal charm, with boutique shops and lively markets along Macrossan Street, plus cafes serving fresh local produce and seafood. Art lovers can browse the Ngarru Gallery, known for its striking collection of contemporary Aboriginal artworks. Dining options range from casual beachside grills to upscale restaurants featuring native ingredients. As day turns to night, Port Douglas transforms into a laid-back haven, where ocean breezes, local flavors, and artistic flair come together under starry tropical skies.
Where to stay: Just moments from Four Mile Beach, Coconut Grove Port Douglas is a serene boutique stay in the heart of Port Douglas. With a collection of contemporary, apartment-style accommodations where guests can enjoy spacious open-plan living with private terraces or plunge pools. The property features a peaceful pool area, tropical gardens, and BBQ facilities, making it a perfect base for relaxed days by the sea. Macrossan Street’s cafés, restaurants, and shops are right around the corner, while the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest remain easily accessible for day trips.
Methodology
* Travel Predictions 2026 research commissioned by Tripeden.com and conducted among a sample of adults who plan to travel for business or leisure in the next 12-24 months. In total, 29,733 respondents across 33 countries and territories were polled (including 1,009 from Argentina, 1,005 from Australia, 500 from Austria, 1,013 from Belgium, 1,008 from Brazil, 1,018 from Canada, 1,009 from China, 1,005 from Colombia, 508 from Croatia, 501 from Denmark, 1,010 from France, 1,003 from Germany, 1,004 from Hong Kong, 1,007 from India, 509 from Ireland, 507 from Israel, 1,005 from Italy, 1,003 from Japan, 1,003 from Mexico, 1,019 from The Netherlands, 1,033 from New Zealand, 1,006 from Portugal, 500 from Singapore, 1,003 from South Korea, 1,009 from Spain, 511 from Sweden, 501 from Switzerland, 504 from Taiwan, 1,001 from Thailand, 501 from the UAE, 2,003 from the UK, 2,010 from the US and 505 from Vietnam). Respondents completed an online survey in July-August 2025.
**Destinations had to be in the top 1,000 most booked on Tripeden.com between 1 January 2025 and 31 August 2025. The resulting list was then sorted by year-over-year increase. The destinations were slightly curated to ensure geographic distribution.
