If you’re planning your next adventures, it’s worth knowing the travel trends for 2026, which promise to transform how we explore the world. As the world continues to adapt to travelers’ new priorities, 2026 is set to be a landmark year for global tourism. From personalized and immersive experiences to new luxury hotel openings and emerging destinations, the trends point toward more conscious, meaningful, and connected ways of traveling.
Just as we saw in the travel trends for 2025 and the key predictions for 2024, this is a movement that has been gaining momentum year after year. Below, we explore the top trends, standout destinations, and most acclaimed hotels for the coming year.
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Top Travel Trends for 2026
1. Personalization and Transformative Experiences
Travelers are increasingly seeking experiences that go beyond sightseeing. In 2026, the focus will be on cultural immersion, wellness, and personal growth. According to MHA, personalization will be one of the pillars of new tourism—from culinary journeys to workshops with local communities.
2. Sustainability and Eco-Conscious Choices
Environmental awareness is at the heart of travel decisions. According to The Future of Commerce, travelers prefer sustainable accommodations and destinations with conservation programs. Projects like 1 Hotel & Homes Crete and Four Seasons Tropicalia are examples of eco-luxury gaining prominence in 2026, as highlighted by Vincent Vacations.
3. Luxury Integrated with Wellness
Luxury in travel is evolving. Today, travelers seek a balance between comfort and holistic health. According to Citizen Femme, top hotels are investing in yoga programs, functional nutrition, and mindfulness, making wellness a central component of the experience.
4. Technology-Driven Convenience
Artificial intelligence, automated check-ins, and real-time personalization are transforming the industry. As highlighted by Exploding Topics, “workation” continues to grow, along with more connected and intelligent travel experiences.
Emerging Destinations for 2026
According to Vincent Vacations and Travel and Tour World, these regions stand out for new accessibility, hotel projects, and sustainability:
- Dominica – known as “The Nature Island,” it focuses on ecotourism and direct flights.
- Sardinia, Italy – an example of sustainable tourism and slow travel.
- Quito, Ecuador – increasingly popular for its authentic cultural experiences.
- Mongolia & Svalbard – adventure destinations embracing regenerative tourism.
- Crete, Shenzhen, Bodrum, Almería, and Dominican Republic – new hotels and improved infrastructure enhance their appeal.
Most Visited Destinations (2026 Forecast)
According to the ITB Travel & Tourism Report 2025/2026 and U.S. News & World Report, these will be the most visited destinations:
- United States – driven by the FIFA World Cup 2026 in cities like New York, Miami, and Los Angeles.
- France and Italy – remain popular, with Paris, Amalfi, and Florence among the favorites.
- Mexico – Cancún and Playa del Carmen stand out with new luxury resorts.
- China – Shanghai and Shenzhen become hubs for leisure and business.
- Spain and Greece – new highlights include Almería and Crete.
Note: There is growing interest in “second cities”—less saturated alternatives with quality and authenticity.
World’s Best Hotels (2025–2026)
La Liste 2025 – Top-Rated Global Hotels
- La Réserve – Paris, a luxury boutique hotel near the Champs-Élysées, with personalized service and a refined spa.
- The Connaught – London, a Mayfair icon combining British tradition with 5-star service and a Michelin-starred restaurant.
- The Savoy – London, one of the city’s most classic hotels, by the Thames, with timeless history and elegance.
- Cheval Blanc – Paris, an LVMH luxury hotel overlooking the Seine, with modern design and a Dior spa.
- Il San Pietro di Positano – Positano, a hotel carved into the cliffs with spectacular views of the Amalfi Coast and a private beach.
- J.K. Place Capri – Capri, a boutique hotel with Mediterranean charm, sea views, and elegant decor.
- Mandarin Oriental – Bangkok, a riverside classic known for legendary service and luxurious tranquility.
- The Peninsula – Shanghai, blending Art Déco with Bund views; also in Chicago with equal excellence.
U.S. News & World Report – Best Hotels 2025
- Four Seasons Resort Hualalai – Kaupulehu, Hawaii: A luxury seaside resort in Hawaii with golf courses and natural pools.
- Acqualina Resort – Sunny Isles Beach, Florida: An oceanfront retreat with an award-winning spa and spacious suites.
- Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort – Kailua-Kona, Hawaii: A renovated retreat honoring Polynesian tradition with sustainable luxury.
- Adare Manor – Adare, Ireland: A neo-Gothic mansion with a championship golf course and a fairytale setting.
- Le Bristol Paris – Paris, France: An iconic palace with a private garden, refined service, and the renowned Epicure restaurant.
- Four Seasons Hotel Firenze – Florence, Italy: An oasis in the heart of the city, with a Renaissance garden and classic luxury.
New Openings (2025–2026)
- 1 Hotel & Homes Crete – Crete, Greece: A sustainable luxury seaside resort focused on wellness and nature.
- Rosewood Shenzhen – Shenzhen, China: A new urban luxury landmark with skyline views and contemporary design.
- Bulgari Resort Bodrum – Bodrum, Turkey: An elegant retreat with a private beach, spa, and Bulgari sophistication.
- The Hearst Hotel San Francisco – San Francisco, USA: Auberge Resorts’ new gem in the historic center, with editorial-inspired design.
- Aman Miami Beach – Miami Beach, USA: The highly anticipated Aman in the U.S., offering exclusivity and seaside tranquility.
The year 2026 will mark a new phase in global tourism, focusing on personalization, sustainability, conscious luxury, and smart technology. Destinations like Dominica, Shenzhen, and Crete gain prominence, while classics like France, Italy, and the U.S. remain favorites.
The best hotels reflect this transformation—offering experiences where luxury meets authenticity, wellness, and environmental commitment.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About 2026 Travel Trends
What are the top travel trends for 2026?
The top travel trends for 2026 include personalized experiences, sustainability, wellness integrated with luxury, and increased use of technology in tourism. Travelers seek cultural immersion, eco-friendly hotels, and digital solutions that simplify travel.
Which emerging destinations stand out in 2026?
Among the emerging destinations for 2026 are Dominica, Sardinia, Quito, Mongolia, Svalbard, Shenzhen, Crete, Bodrum, Almería, and the Dominican Republic. These locations combine sustainability, accessibility, and authenticity.
What are the most recommended luxury hotels for 2026?
The most acclaimed hotels include u003cemu003eLa Réserveu003c/emu003e (Paris), u003cemu003eThe Connaughtu003c/emu003e (London), u003cemu003eRosewood Mayakobau003c/emu003e (Mexico), and u003cemu003eFour Seasons Hualalaiu003c/emu003e (Hawaii). New openings like u003cemu003e1 Hotel & Homes Cretau003c/emu003e and u003cemu003eRosewood Shenzhenu003c/emu003e are among the most anticipated.
How is technology transforming tourism in 2026?
Technology in 2026 stands out with automated check-ins, AI-driven personalization, and the growth of connected travel (‘workation’). These innovations make the experience smoother and more personalized.
Is sustainable tourism really a strong trend?
Yes. Travelers value eco-friendly practices, sustainable accommodations, and experiences with a positive impact. Hotels like u003cemu003eFour Seasons Tropicaliau003c/emu003e and u003cemu003e1 Hotel & Homes Cretau003c/emu003e are benchmarks in this new era of conscious tourism.
Which destinations will be the most visited in 2026?
The United States, France, Italy, Mexico, China, Spain, and Greece will be among the most visited destinations. Additionally, interest in ‘second cities’—less saturated but equally authentic—is growing.
