In Pics | Top trending destinations for 2026

With the year drawing to a close, we reveal Booking.com's list of hottest travel destinations for 2026. These lists reveal that in 2026, the travel enthusiasts are planning their trips. The modern traveller is creating bespoke journeys, ensuring their adventures accurately reflect their individuality and deepest loves.

Mui Ne, Vietnam

Mui Ne, on Vietnam’s southeast coast, is a laid-back beach destination that merges with culture, adventure and picturesque natural beauty. Once a fishing village, it now offers golden sands and steady breezes, attracting several tourists throughout the year.

Guangzhou, China

Guangzhou in China is a bustling metropolis that draws tourists all year long. Apart from offering countless local food tours and attractions to tourists, this place also serves as a hub for business and innovation. The city perfectly merges its rich history with the modern status as a global economic powerhouse, showcasing both old and new China.

Kochi, Kerala

The only Indian city on Booking.com, Kochi, is a destination defined by centuries of global trade and cultural exchange. From colourful mansions to modern art cafes, the city also offers an array of historical attractions. Food lovers can also enjoy lip-smacking coastal cuisines, from a wide range of seafood to traditional coconut-rich thalis.

Philadelphia, USA

Philadelphia blends historical significance with a lively, modern With iconic places like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, Philadelphia will be one of the key attraction spots during the Semiquincentennial celebrations, marking 250 years of independence. Apart from this, the place is also gaining momentum as it gears up to host major sporting events such as the FIFA World Cup and MLB All-Star Game, making it one of the must-visit places in 2026.

Port Douglas, Australia

Located on Australia's tropical northeast coast, Port Douglas is the ideal spot offering adventure and relaxation to tourists. One can spend the hours enjoying the scenic beauty. From exploring vibrant coral reefs to lush rainforest trails, the town has a range of activities that will transport you to a different world.

Manaus, Brazil

Gateway to the Amazon rainforest, Manaus in Brazil, stands as one of the world's most lesser explored gems. Home to over two million people, the place is famous for its primary gateway. Visitors often start by witnessing the "Meeting of Waters," a famous phenomenon where two massive, unmixed rivers merge, before embarking on river cruises.

Barranquilla, Colombia

Set on the banks of the Magdalena River, Barranquilla is a colourful, under-the-radar escape on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. Its main event is the spectacular Carnaval, a UNESCO-listed celebration of music and community.

Sal, Cape Verde

Sal, Cape Verde, is one of the archipelago's ten islands, located in the central Atlantic Ocean. It is famous for its year-round sunshine and golden beaches, which provide world-class opportunities for water sports. Sal is famous for its pristine praias brancas (white sand beaches), crystal-clear turquoise waters and world-class windsurfing. Where vibrant culture and natural beauty come alive in every corner of the island.

Bilbao, Spain

Bilbao has brilliantly transitioned from an industrial center to a major cultural destination, famed for its world-class art and architecture. The iconic Guggenheim Museum defines its modern identity, while the charming Casco Viejo retains its medieval flavour with narrow streets and popular pintxos bars. As the culinary capital of the Basque Country, Bilbao guarantees exceptional dining experiences.

Munster, Germany

A charming city in western Germany, Münster combines history with a pulsing youthful energy. Home to one of Germany's largest universities, the city is filled with student life, cozy cafes and riverside beer gardens.