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Top 10 Travel Destinations for 2026 Revealed
Industry experts share the hottest spots for the new year
Mar. 10, 2026 at 6:00pm
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From Alaska's remote glaciers to the beaches of Sardinia, industry experts have identified the top 10 travel destinations that will be the biggest draws in 2026. The list includes emerging destinations like New River Gorge National Park, Okinawa, Japan, and Canmore, Alberta, as well as perennial favorites like Route 66 and the U.S. Virgin Islands. With a total solar eclipse set to captivate travelers that year, Greenland and Iceland are also expected to see a surge in visitors.
Why it matters
As the travel industry continues to rebound from the pandemic, these forecasts provide valuable insights for travelers looking to get ahead of the curve and book their 2026 trips. The list highlights a shift toward less-crowded, off-the-beaten-path destinations, as well as a growing interest in literary-inspired travel and outdoor recreation. Understanding these emerging trends can help travelers plan unforgettable vacations in the years to come.
The details
The list of top 2026 travel destinations was compiled by industry experts, including travel companies Expedia, Vrbo, and RVshare. Some key trends include a rise in demand for small expedition cruises in Alaska, increased interest in exploring Route 66 and the American Southwest, and growing popularity of Sardinia's wild, undeveloped landscapes. Destinations like Zermatt, Switzerland and Okinawa, Japan are also gaining traction among travelers seeking unique cultural experiences. Meanwhile, national parks that are off the beaten path, like New River Gorge in West Virginia, are seeing a surge in interest.
- The total solar eclipse on August 12, 2026 is expected to drive a surge in travel to Greenland and Iceland.
- Mammoth Mountain in Northern California is seeing a 38% increase in travel demand year-over-year, thanks to its long ski season.
The players
Expedia
A leading online travel booking platform that has identified Sardinia as one of its top destinations for 2026, with a 63% year-over-year increase in search.
Vrbo
A vacation rental company that has reported a 20% increase in demand for rentals in Canmore, Alberta, and the U.S. Virgin Islands' St. Thomas.
RVshare
A peer-to-peer RV rental platform that has noted growing interest in off-the-beaten-path national parks like New River Gorge in West Virginia.
What’s next
Travelers interested in visiting Greenland or Iceland during the 2026 total solar eclipse should book their trips as soon as possible, as accommodations are expected to fill up quickly.
The takeaway
The top travel destinations for 2026 reflect a growing desire among travelers to explore lesser-known, off-the-beaten-path locations that offer unique cultural experiences and opportunities for outdoor adventure. By understanding these emerging trends, travelers can get ahead of the curve and plan unforgettable trips in the years to come.
