Travel in 2026 is looking more exciting than ever. As the year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to look ahead at the destinations set to define travel in 2026. Australians are seeking holidays that feel authentic and meaningful, with more emphasis on culture, good food, beautiful scenery and itineraries that allow time to truly settle in.
There is a clear shift towards travel that values atmosphere over speed, where character filled towns, rich stories and easy exploring take centre stage. From iconic favourites enjoying a revival to rising stars capturing new attention, these are the destinations leading the way.
1. Japan
Japan continues to enchant travellers who want calm beauty, cultural depth and superb hospitality. The trend is all about slow and meaningful journeys. Think multi night stays in Kyoto, traditional ryokans with private onsens, local food tours and scenic rail trips. Seasonal travel remains popular with many planning ahead for cherry blossom or autumn colours.
Why it’s trending: It delivers peaceful moments, vibrant cities and a sense of wonder that never wears off.
2. Italy
Italy is all about joy, flavour and romance and travellers are exploring more of it than ever before. As well as ticking off the big three, people are discovering Puglia’s pretty coastal villages, Sicily’s ancient history, Lake Como’s elegance and the wine regions of Piedmont. Longer, slower holidays are firmly on the rise.
Why it’s trending: It blends world-class food with breathtaking scenery and endless charm.
3. Greece
Greece has a timeless pull but the trend is shifting to its more authentic islands. Travellers are choosing places like Naxos, Paros and Crete where the beaches are stunning and the atmosphere is wonderfully laidback. Traditional tavernas, archaeological sites and gentle island hopping are shaping the new Greek holiday.
Why it’s trending: Warm seas, warm smiles and a beautifully unhurried way of life.
4. Croatia
Croatia remains a coastal favourite thanks to its sparkling blue waters, medieval towns and relaxed rhythm. Travellers love its blend of history and sunshine. Small ship cruises and guided coastal journeys are especially popular, allowing people to explore the Dalmatian Islands without any fuss.
Why it’s trending: It offers postcard perfection with a peaceful pace.
5. Fiji
Fiji is pure escapism. Travellers are leaning into boutique resorts, wellness retreats and adults only islands where everything slows down beautifully. Friendly locals, gentle seas and warm weather make it a favourite for those wanting a restorative break from everyday life.
Why it’s trending: It is close, easy and endlessly relaxing with genuine hospitality at every turn.
6. Canada
Canada is an outdoor masterpiece with dramatic mountains, turquoise lakes and wildlife galore. Rail journeys like the Rocky Mountaineer remain iconic while the Yukon, Québec and Vancouver Island are attracting travellers looking for culture and nature in perfect balance. Wildlife viewing and photography tours are seeing strong interest.
Why it’s trending: Natural splendour combined with bucket list rail travel.
7. France
France is loved for its elegance and culture but travellers are now diving deeper into its regions. River cruising through wine country, wandering through Provençal towns and exploring Normandy’s landscapes are trending strongly. The country offers countless ways to savour life at an enjoyable pace.
Why it’s trending: It blends art, food, history and countryside in the most delightful way.
8. Bali
Bali has always been close to Australia’s heart, and it is being rediscovered in new ways. Travellers are seeking more immersive experiences such as cooking classes, cultural workshops, guided nature tours and wellness retreats in Ubud and beyond. Boutique hotels and eco friendly resorts are rising in popularity.
Why it’s trending: It feels familiar yet still full of new discoveries.
9. Portugal
Portugal is climbing rapidly on travel wish lists. People are falling in love with Porto’s river views, Lisbon’s pastel coloured streets and the Algarve’s rugged coastline. It is also excellent value, making it ideal for long stays filled with food, wine and culture.
Why it’s trending: Gorgeous weather, great food and a friendly atmosphere at a surprisingly good price.
10. Spain
Spain delights with its vibrant culture, grand architecture and unforgettable cuisine. Andalucía is especially popular with its flamenco rhythms, golden palaces and historic cities like Seville and Granada. Travellers are enjoying food tours, cultural journeys and scenic rail travel across the country.
Why it’s trending: Sunshine, soul and sensational flavours that make every day special.
Key Travel Trends for 2026
- Across all destinations, several clear themes are shaping the way Australians want to travel in the coming years.
- Slow and meaningful travel
- People are choosing to stay longer in each place, enjoy fewer hotel changes and spend more time soaking in the local way of life.
- Expert led touring
- Escorted tours, river cruises and rail holidays are popular because they remove stress and add local insight.
- Food, wine and cultural immersion
- Travellers want hands on experiences such as cooking classes, vineyard tastings and guided walks through historic towns.
- Comfort and accessibility
- Strong public transport, walkable areas, safety and great hospitality are essential features of every trending destination.
- Bucket list fulfilment
- From the Canadian Rockies to the Greek Islands, travellers are seeking “dream trip” moments and planning them earlier.
The Bottom Line
The world is full of extraordinary places and 2026 will be standout years for travellers looking for culture rich, scenic and immersive experiences. Whether relaxing in Fiji, exploring Italy’s countryside or discovering the charm of Portugal, these destinations promise holidays filled with meaning and memory.
Ready to plan your 2026 escape? Click here to view our top sale packages, or get in touch with one of our travel experts!
1300 854 897 | holidays@holidaysofaustralia.com.au
