Dreaming about where to go next? From under-the-radar gems to exciting new hotspots, these are the destinations that will steal the spotlight in 2026
As travellers look beyond overcrowded classics and towards places with fresh appeal, 2026 is shaping up to be a year defined by discovery. Whether it’s emerging islands, culturally rich cities, or destinations newly opened up by better flight access, these are the places climbing fast up wish lists and worth booking before everyone else does.
Sardinia, Italy
Italy has never been a stranger to eager tourists, but with traditional hotspots like Rome, Florence, and the Amalfi Coast now feeling the strain of overtourism, smart travellers have turned their attention to a part of the country situated just left of the boot-shaped mainland: Sardinia. The second-largest island in the Mediterranean after Sicily, luxury-seekers can head to the Costa Smeralda to enjoy lush views of the turquoise waters that have earned it the nickname ‘the Emerald Coast’.
Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
As the kingdom works steadily towards its Vision 2030 goal, the Red Sea is fast becoming one of the most exciting new tourism destinations in the Middle East. Drawing in local, regional, and international travellers alike, the first resorts there opened in 2023 and 2024, and the highly anticipated Shura Island began welcoming guests last year. As the destination continues to develop, it’s set to be a major tourism hotspot in 2026.
Bilbao, Spain
Bilbao made it onto Skyscanner’s trending destinations list for 2026, with UAE-based travellers’ searches for it having increased by a whopping 167%. With more flights now available into the country, GCC travellers can hop onto internal connections with ease.
The rise of astrotourism will also place Spain’s Basque Country firmly on travellers’ wish lists. A total solar eclipse will take place on 12 August 2026, and among the best places to watch it from is Bilbao. Visitors would be remiss not to visit the Frank Gehry–designed Guggenheim Museum Bilbao or go pintxos bar-hopping in the picturesque Casco Viejo (Old Town).
Okinawa, Japan
Wellness tourism is on the rise across the world, and as longevity becomes an increasingly appealing pillar of wellness travel, the world’s “Blue Zones” are now in the spotlight more than ever. Okinawa, an island in the south of Japan, is one of them.
With stunning white-sand beaches, sparkling blue waters, glassy surf with a long swell window, and captivating marine life to explore — not to mention a number of fascinating cultural sites — it’s easy to see where its appeal lies.
Beijing, China
Tourism to mainland China has been on the rise in recent years, with plenty of new routes launching from the Middle East, alongside a wave of new hotels and resorts from coveted international brands. Beijing remains one of the country’s most popular destinations.
Not only is the city a centre of innovation, making it a hub for tech enthusiasts and business travellers alike, it’s also home to hugely significant historical and cultural landmarks, including the Forbidden City and the Lama Temple. Experts claim it’s on track to become one of the world’s most powerful city destinations by 2032, potentially surpassing Paris in international touristic appeal within the next decade.
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Phu Quoc, Vietnam
Already a popular holiday spot among travellers from South Korea, China, and Russia, Phu Quoc continues to see rising international interest each year. As more direct flights launch from East Asia — with further global connections expected — this once-sleepy fishing village is gearing up for a full-scale transformation.
Pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, cultural attractions, jungles, mountains, and bustling markets all come together here, with a casino and an amusement park adding to its growing appeal.
The Cotswolds, UK
As the trend for slow travel continues to grow, one part of the UK is shining brighter than ever: the Cotswolds. Travellers are increasingly drawn to this immersive, blissfully quiet countryside escape, known for its charming, highly Instagrammable villages.
There’s plenty to do, from long country walks and cosy pub lunches to fairytale-worthy tearooms, lush spas, historic sites, and hands-on workshops covering everything from cooking and crafts to pottery, silversmithing, and birding. With easy train access from London, it’s become an appealing detour destination from the capital.
Paro, Bhutan
A recent Skyscanner report revealed that travellers from the UAE are eager to explore more of the world’s less-trodden paths, with destinations such as Varna, Bilbao, Krabi, and Bengaluru emerging as rising stars for 2026. Paro is among them, with searches up by 149%.
This valley town in western Bhutan is home to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery and draws visitors with its tranquillity, spiritual atmosphere, crisp mountain air, and unique wildlife. A new twice-weekly Drukair flight between Paro and Dubai has also made the destination more accessible for GCC travellers.
Varna, Bulgaria
More UAE travellers are discovering Varna, Bulgaria’s so-called “Pearl of the Black Sea”, and it’s easy to see why. Golden beaches, ancient Roman ruins — including well-preserved Roman baths — and scenic coastal strolls make it an appealing alternative to more crowded European seaside destinations.
It’s also more affordable, with indirect flight options available via flydubai, Emirates, Turkish Airlines, and Etihad.
Basel, Switzerland
This culturally rich city in northwestern Switzerland occupies a unique tri-border location, sitting at the meeting point of Switzerland, France, and Germany. That makes Basel an ideal base for travellers looking to maximise their time in Europe with easy day trips or multi-country itineraries.
Cultural events are also shaping travel trends for 2026, with major moments acting as a global draw. Art Basel takes place here each June, while Basler Fasnacht — Switzerland’s largest carnival — runs between February and March. Add festive winter markets and a strong year-round cultural scene, and Basel cements its place as a destination worth planning around.
