26 Best Destinations to Visit in 2026: Why, When, & How
As we look toward the horizon of 2026, the world of luxury travel is shifting. We are moving away from the "bucket list" mentality and toward intentionality—seeking "coolcations" to escape the summer heat, "quiet luxury" in spiritual corners of the globe, and deep-immersion journeys that prioritize connection over checklists.
Whether you are planning a milestone birthday, searching for a luxury honeymoon advisor, or ready to coordinate a multi-generational reunion, 2026 promises a return to soul-enhancing travel. As your personal travel advisor, I’ve curated the definitive list of where to go, why it matters now, and the best time to experience it.
1. The Dolomites, Italy
For mountain adventurer.
Why It’s Top for 2026: The region will be in the global spotlight as it hosts the 2026 Winter Olympics, bringing world-class infrastructure and a renewed energy to the Alpine peaks.
Best Time to Visit: June–September (Hiking) or December–March (Skiing).
Popular Attractions & Activities: Traverse the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, explore the turquoise Lago di Braies, or enjoy a sunset helicopter tour over the jagged Marmolada glacier.
Milestones: A milestone 40th or 50th birthday celebration in a private mountain rifugio.
Suggested Accommodations: COMO Alpina Dolomites or Forestis Dolomites.
2. Cairo & The Nile, Egypt
For the history-loving romantic.
Why It’s Top for 2026: The long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) is the 2026 centerpiece, offering the most comprehensive collection of ancient artifacts ever assembled.
Best Time to Visit: October – April.
Popular Attractions & Activities: A private viewing of the Sphinx, exploring the GEM, and a multi-day luxury sailing journey down the Nile on a traditional Dahabiya.
Milestones: An anniversary trip celebrating decades of shared history.
Suggested Accommodations: Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza or The St. Regis Cairo.
3. Kyoto, Japan
For Seeking Zen.
Why It’s Top for 2026: As travelers seek "quiet luxury," Kyoto remains the pinnacle of spiritual reconnection and refined aesthetic.
Best Time to Visit: March–May (Sakura) or November (Maple season).
Popular Attractions & Activities: Private tea ceremonies in centuries-old gardens, the Fushimi Inari Shrine at dawn, and exploring the artisan workshops of the Gion district.
Milestones: A transformative "babymoon" before a new chapter begins.
Suggested Accommodations: Aman Kyoto or the brand-new Capella Kyoto (opening 2026).
4. The Seychelles
For tropical seclusion.
Why It’s Top for 2026: Increasing demand for eco-conscious, ultra-private islands makes the Seychelles the "it" spot for those who have already done the Maldives.
Best Time to Visit: April–May or October–November.
Popular Attractions & Activities: Snorkeling the granite reefs of La Digue, visiting the UNESCO-listed Vallée de Mai, and private catamaran island-hopping.
Milestones: The ultimate luxury honeymoon.
Suggested Accommodations: North Island or Six Senses Zil Pasyon.
5. Reykjavík & The Highlands, Iceland
For modern exploration.
Why It’s Top for 2026: Leading the "Coolcation" trend for travelers escaping extreme summer temperatures in favor of dramatic, cooling landscapes.
Best Time to Visit: September–March (Aurora) or June–August (Midnight Sun).
Popular Attractions & Activities: Soaking in the Sky Lagoon, chasing the Northern Lights, and 4x4 glacier expeditions into the uninhabited Highlands.
Milestones: An adventurous engagement or surprise proposal.
Suggested Accommodations: The Retreat at Blue Lagoon or Edition Reykjavík.
6. Puglia, Italy
For the authentic foodie.
Why It’s Top for 2026: As Northern Italy becomes more crowded, Puglia offers a soulful, slower-paced alternative with authentic "farm-to-table" heritage.
Best Time to Visit: May – September.
Popular Attractions & Activities: Exploring the "Trulli" of Alberobello, olive oil tastings at ancient estates, and sunbathing at Polignano a Mare.
Milestones: A picturesque destination wedding (ask me about my services as a destination wedding planner!).
Suggested Accommodations: Borgo Egnazia or Masseria Torre Maizza (Rocco Forte).
7. Provence, France
For châteaux & slow-living.
Why It’s Top for 2026: A return to classic European elegance and the "Agritourism" movement.
Best Time to Visit: June – July (for lavender fields).
Popular Attractions & Activities: Biking through the Luberon valley, visiting the Palais des Papes in Avignon, and morning markets in Gordes.
Milestones: A multi-generational family reunion in a private château.
Suggested Accommodations: Château de la Messardière or Villa La Coste.
8. Madeira, Portugal
For the cliffside scenery.
Why It’s Top for 2026: Known as the "Hawaii of Europe," Madeira is gaining traction for its dramatic topography and world-class wine culture.
Best Time to Visit: April – October.
Popular Attractions & Activities: Hiking the Levadas, wine tasting in Funchal, and taking the cable car to Monte for a traditional wicker toboggan ride.
Milestones: A retirement celebration or "golden" anniversary.
Suggested Accommodations: Belmond Reid’s Palace or The Savoy Palace.
9. Tenerife, Spain
For winter sun seekers.
Why It’s Top for 2026: Tenerife is becoming a global leader in "Astro-tourism" thanks to its incredibly clear skies and high-altitude observatories.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round (the "Island of Eternal Spring").
Popular Attractions & Activities: Stargazing at Mount Teide National Park, whale watching in the Los Gigantes cliffs, and exploring the colonial streets of La Laguna.
Milestones: A 30th birthday trip with a focus on wellness and nature.
Suggested Accommodations: The Ritz-Carlton, Abama or Royal Hideaway Corales Resort.
10. Bali, Indonesia
For wellness and jungle exploration.
Why It’s Top for 2026: Bali continues to evolve with a new wave of ultra-luxury wellness retreats that go beyond the typical spa experience.
Best Time to Visit: April – September.
Popular Attractions & Activities: Sunrise at Uluwatu Temple, private yoga in the Ubud jungle, and surfing the breaks of Canggu.
Milestones: A spiritual "reset" or solo transformation journey.
Suggested Accommodations: Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve or Amankila.
11. The Douro Valley, Portugal
For the harvest season.
Why It’s Top for 2026: Agritourism and river cruising are peaking, and the Douro offers the world’s most scenic vineyard landscapes.
Best Time to Visit: September – October (Harvest season).
Popular Attractions & Activities: Private vintage port tastings, river cruises on a traditional Rabelo boat, and scenic train rides.
Milestones: A sophisticated group trip for wine lovers.
Suggested Accommodations: Six Senses Douro Valley.
12. Cape Town, South Africa
For urban adventure.
Why It’s Top for 2026: Cape Town is solidifying its place as the design and culinary capital of the Southern Hemisphere.
Best Time to Visit: November – March.
Popular Attractions & Activities: Table Mountain at sunset, the penguins at Boulders Beach, and the art galleries of the V&A Waterfront.
Milestones: A milestone graduation trip.
Suggested Accommodations: Ellerman House or One&Only Cape Town.
13. Mallorca, Spain
For the understated luxury.
Why It’s Top for 2026: Mallorca has successfully shifted from mass tourism to high-end boutique experiences, focusing on the Tramuntana mountains.
Best Time to Visit: May – September.
Popular Attractions & Activities: Sailing to hidden calas (coves), visiting the Miro Museum, and dining at Michelin-starred restaurants in Palma.
Milestones: A chic "Hen" weekend or luxury getaway with friends.
Suggested Accommodations: Belmond La Residencia or Son Bunyola (Virgin Limited Edition).
14. The Serengeti, Tanzania
For the wildlife lovers.
Why It’s Top for 2026: New regenerative safari models are allowing for more intimate, low-impact encounters with the Great Migration.
Best Time to Visit: June – October (Migration) or January – February (Calving).
Popular Attractions & Activities: Sunrise hot air balloon safaris, guided bush walks, and visiting local Maasai communities.
Milestones: A "bucket list" family safari for all ages.
Suggested Accommodations: Singita Sasakwa Lodge or Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti.
15. Patagonia, Chile & Argentina
For Edge-of-the-World feelings.
Why It’s Top for 2026: The rise of "JOMO" (Joy of Missing Out) travel makes Patagonia’s remote, disconnected lodges highly coveted.
Best Time to Visit: November – March.
Popular Attractions & Activities: Hiking the "W" Trek in Torres del Paine, Perito Moreno glacier trekking, and fly fishing in crystal rivers.
Milestones: A rugged but refined honeymoon for active couples.
Suggested Accommodations: Awasi Patagonia or Explora Torres del Paine.
16. The Maldives
For the ultimate retreat.
Why It’s Top for 2026: Still the undisputed queen of "total disconnection," the Maldives is expanding its ultra-luxury footprint in 2026 with new flagship properties like Soneva Secret, offering the most exclusive overwater hideaways in the archipelago.
Best Time to Visit: November – April.
Popular Attractions & Activities: Dinner in an underwater restaurant reserved just for two, glamping in private beach bubbles under the Milky Way, and swimming with whale sharks in the South Ari Atoll.
Milestones: The premier choice for a luxury babymoon or a milestone 50th birthday "friendcation".
Suggested Accommodations: Soneva Jani, Cheval Blanc Randheli, or Waldorf Astoria Ithaafushi.
17. Bhutan
For divine intentions.
Why It’s Top for 2026: As the pinnacle of "High-Value, Low-Impact" travel, Bhutan remains a rare sanctuary of preserved culture and carbon-negative living, making it the top destination for those seeking a transformative spiritual journey.
Best Time to Visit: March–May or September–November.
Popular Attractions & Activities: Hiking to the Tiger’s Nest (Taktsang Monastery) for a private monk blessing, exploring the ancient Dzong architecture of Punakha, and witnessing the vibrant mask dances of the Thimphu Tshechu festival.
Milestones: A soul-stirring retirement trip or a transformative solo "reset".
Suggested Accommodations: Amankora (multiple lodges), Six Senses Bhutan, or COMO Uma Paro.
18. Marrakech, Morocco
For vibrant culture.
Why It’s Top for 2026: Marrakech’s design scene is undergoing a renaissance, blending traditional Moorish craft with contemporary luxury.
Best Time to Visit: March–May or September–November.
Popular Attractions & Activities: Majorelle Garden, getting lost in the Souks, and a private dinner in the Agafay Desert.
Milestones: A milestone birthday celebration in a private Riad.
Suggested Accommodations: Royal Mansour or Amanjena.
19. The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
For conscious exploring.
Why It’s Top for 2026: With limited permits and a focus on ultra-luxury small-ship expeditions, the Galapagos is the gold standard for sustainable luxury.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round (December–May is warmer and calmer).
Popular Attractions & Activities: Snorkeling with sea lions, visiting the Giant Tortoise breeding centers, and kayaking through mangrove forests.
Milestones: An educational and inspiring family reunion.
Suggested Accommodations: Silver Origin (Silversea) or Celebrity Flora.
20. St. Barts, Caribbean
For private luxury.
Why It’s Top for 2026: St. Barts remains the Caribbean’s most exclusive enclave, offering a slice of France with turquoise waters.
Best Time to Visit: December – April.
Popular Attractions & Activities: Shopping in Gustavia, a hike to Colombier Beach, and long lunches at Nikki Beach.
Milestones: A winter "escape" for a milestone anniversary.
Suggested Accommodations: Eden Rock – St Barths or Cheval Blanc St-Barth.
21. Antarctica
For rare expoditionists.
Why It’s Top for 2026: New ultra-luxury expedition vessels (with helicopters and subs) are making the Seventh Continent more accessible and comfortable than ever.
Best Time to Visit: November – March.
Popular Attractions & Activities: Zodiac cruises through icebergs, visiting penguin colonies, and the "Polar Plunge."
Milestones: A life-changing retirement or 60th birthday achievement.
Suggested Accommodations: Seabourn Venture or Ponant’s Le Commandant Charcot.
22. The Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico
For the sacred history.
Why It’s Top for 2026: The full maturation of the Maya Train will allow luxury travelers to visit remote ruins and haciendas with unprecedented ease.
Best Time to Visit: November – April.
Popular Attractions & Activities: Chichén Itzá at sunrise, swimming in private cenotes, and exploring the "Yellow City" of Izamal.
Milestones: A design-forward destination wedding.
Suggested Accommodations: Chablé Yucatan or Hotel Esencia.
23. Anguilla
For the serene beaches.
Why It’s Top for 2026: Anguilla has resisted over-development, making it the perfect choice for those seeking "quiet" Caribbean luxury.
Best Time to Visit: December – April.
Popular Attractions & Activities: Boat trips to Sandy Island, dining at Blanchard’s, and sunset cocktails at Meads Bay.
Milestones: A peaceful, private anniversary getaway.
Suggested Accommodations: Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel or Four Seasons Resort Anguilla.
24. The Canadian Rockies
For mountain lodge luxury.
Why It’s Top for 2026: As travelers prioritize "forest bathing" and mountain air, the Rockies offer a world-class wellness escape within North America.
Best Time to Visit: June – September.
Popular Attractions & Activities: Canoeing on Lake Louise, driving the Icefields Parkway, and soaking in the Banff Upper Hot Springs.
Milestones: A milestone family reunion centered on health and activity.
Suggested Accommodations: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise or The Post Hotel & Spa.
25. Queenstown, New Zealand
For the thrill-seekers.
Why It’s Top for 2026: New Zealand is reinvesting in ultra-high-end "Super Lodges," making it a premier destination for those who want adventure by day and five-star luxury by night.
Best Time to Visit: December – February.
Popular Attractions & Activities: Heli-hiking in Milford Sound, bungee jumping (if you dare!), and wine tasting in the Central Otago region.
Milestones: An epic "last hurrah" before a major life change.
Suggested Accommodations: Rosewood Matakauri or Blanket Bay.
26. The Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
For island hopping.
Why It’s Top for 2026: Sailing continues to be a top trend for 2026, and there is no better way to see Croatia’s 1,000 islands than by private yacht.
Best Time to Visit: June – September.
Popular Attractions & Activities: Walking the walls of Dubrovnik, dancing at Hvar’s beach clubs, and exploring the Blue Cave of Biševo.
Milestones: A milestone "decade" birthday with a group of friends.
Suggested Accommodations: Villa Orsula (Dubrovnik) or Maslina Resort (Hvar).
Ready to Plan Your 2026 Journey?
The world of travel is moving toward deeper connections and more intentional journeys. Whether you’re dreaming of a celestial night in Tenerife or a spiritual reset in Bali, the right planning makes all the difference in moving from a "bucket list" to a lived experience.
As your Virtuoso travel advisor, my role is to handle the logistics so you can focus on the moments. When you're ready to start exploring these 2026 destinations, let’s connect to build a high-touch, custom itinerary tailored specifically to your travel style.
Start crafting your luxury travel itinerary and book your complimentary consultation today!