Discover, Dream & Book Your Next Journey with Expedia. Travel in 2026 is all about authentic experiences, sustainable adventures, and cultural immersion. From Asia’s serene temples to Europe’s sun-drenched coastlines, these ten global hotspots are calling your name. Let’s explore the Top 10 Travel Destinations 2026 | Expedia Travel Guide — what to do, when to go, and how to make the most of every trip.

1. Kyoto, Japan 🇯🇵

Where Timeless Tradition Meets Modern Grace

Kyoto is Japan’s spiritual heart, home to over 1,600 Buddhist temples, centuries-old teahouses, and the mesmerizing Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Stroll through Gion’s lantern-lit streets where geishas still practice ancient arts, or find peace at Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion).

🗓 Best Time to Visit: March–May (cherry blossoms) or October–November (autumn colors)
🎎 Must-Do Experiences:

• Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine with its iconic red torii gates
• Try a traditional kaiseki dinner or join a tea ceremony
• Bike along the Philosopher’s Path
• Day trip to Nara to meet the friendly sacred deer

Why Go: Culture, beauty, serenity — Kyoto embodies the soul of Japan.

2. Bali, Indonesia 🇮🇩

The Island of the Gods

Bali is a tropical haven balancing spiritual charm and barefoot luxury. From Canggu’s surf culture to Ubud’s rice terraces, and Uluwatu’s clifftop sunsets, this island offers a paradise for every traveler.

🌴 Highlights:

• Discover temples like Tanah Lot and Uluwatu Temple
• Pamper yourself in a Balinese spa
• Chase waterfalls in Munduk and Sekumpul
• Experience local art and dance in Ubud

🗓 Best Time to Visit: April–October (dry season)
💡 Tip: Rent a scooter to explore off-the-beaten-path beaches like Amed or Balangan.

3. Lisbon, Portugal 🇵🇹

Europe’s Most Radiant Capital

Lisbon sparkles with charm — pastel buildings, ocean breezes, and the melodic hum of fado. Ride the yellow Tram 28 through Alfama, taste pastéis de nata at Belém, and sip port wine as the sun sets over the Tagus River.

🌇 What to See:

• Explore Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery
• Discover trendy LX Factory art district
• Take a day trip to Sintra’s fairytale palaces
• Enjoy panoramic views from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

🗓 Best Time to Visit: March–June or September–October

4. Queenstown, New Zealand 🇳🇿

Adventure Capital of the World

Nestled between mountains and Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is adrenaline central — and stunningly beautiful. From bungee jumping to wine tasting, it’s pure adventure wrapped in nature.

🏔️ Top Experiences:

• Go jet boating, paragliding, or skiing in The Remarkables
• Tour Milford Sound, New Zealand’s natural wonder
• Sip wine in Gibbston Valley
• Try the world-famous Fergburger

🗓 Best Time to Visit: December–February (summer fun) or June–August (winter sports)

5. Tulum, Mexico 🇲🇽

Boho Luxury by the Caribbean

Once a quiet backpacker spot, Tulum is now a chic beach haven known for eco-resorts, cenotes, and Mayan ruins overlooking turquoise waters.

🏖️ Don’t Miss:

• Visit the Tulum Archaeological Zone
• Swim in Gran Cenote or Cenote Dos Ojos
• Spend the day in Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
• Enjoy nightlife on the Beach Road

🗓 Best Time to Visit: November–April

💡 Tip: Tulum’s boutique hotels fill quickly — book early on Expedia for the best rates.

6. Reykjavik, Iceland 🇮🇸

Fire, Ice & Midnight Sun

Reykjavik is your gateway to Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes — waterfalls, glaciers, hot springs, and volcanoes.

🌋 Top Experiences:

• Soak in the Blue Lagoon
• Chase waterfalls like Gullfoss and Seljalandsfoss
• Witness the Northern Lights or the Midnight Sun
• Visit Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO site

🗓 Best Time to Visit: February–April (Aurora) or June–August (24-hour daylight)

7. Cape Town, South Africa

Where Oceans Meet Mountains

Cape Town is one of the most scenic cities on Earth — framed by Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean.

🌅 Top Experiences:

• Take the Table Mountain cable car for epic views
• Visit Cape Point and the Boulders Beach penguins
• Explore Stellenbosch and Franschhoek wine regions
• Wander the colorful streets of Bo-Kaap

🗓 Best Time to Visit: October–April

8. Marrakech, Morocco 🇲🇦

A Feast for the Senses

Lose yourself in Marrakech’s ancient medina — a labyrinth of souks, spices, and vibrant energy.

🌺 What to Do:

• Stay in a traditional riad
• Visit the Majorelle Garden and YSL Museum
• Shop for rugs and lanterns in Jemaa el-Fna
• Enjoy a Moroccan hammam and mint tea on a rooftop terrace

🗓 Best Time to Visit: March–May or September–November

9. Costa Rica 🇨🇷

Pura Vida Paradise

Costa Rica is an eco-lover’s dream, where rainforests, volcanoes, and beaches coexist in harmony.

🌿 Top Experiences:

• Zipline through the Monteverde Cloud Forest
• Visit Arenal Volcano and its hot springs
• Surf in Tamarindo or Santa Teresa
• Spot sloths in Manuel Antonio National Park

🗓 Best Time to Visit: December–April (dry season)

10. New York City, USA 🇺🇸

The City That Never Sleeps

The world’s greatest urban playground — NYC is alive with art, culture, and energy year-round.

🏙️ Highlights:

• See a Broadway show
• Explore Central Park and the High Line
• Visit MoMA or The Met Museum
• Dine at rooftop bars in Manhattan or Brooklyn

🗓 Best Time to Visit: April–June or September–December

💡 Tip: Use Expedia to compare NYC’s three major airports — JFK, LGA, and EWR — for the best flight deals.

💼 Booking Smart: How to Get the Best Flights on Expedia

• 🔔 Set fare alerts to get notified of price drops.
• 💡 Use flexible date search for cheaper travel days.
• ✈️ Bundle & save: Book flights + hotels together.
• 🌍 Compare nearby airports for hidden savings.
• 💸 Travel mid-week (Tues–Wed) for lower fares.

✨ Final Thought

Travel in 2026 is about rediscovering the joy of exploration — from Kyoto’s serenity to Costa Rica’s wild jungles. Whether you’re craving culture, cuisine, or coastlines, Expedia makes planning effortless with exclusive deals and flexible booking options.

So go ahead — click, explore, and start your journey. 🌏

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Whether it’s exploring Kyoto’s temples, surfing Bali’s waves, or sipping wine in Lisbon’s sun — Expedia has the best flight deals, flexible hotel options, and exclusive bundles waiting for you.

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💡 Pro Tip: Bundle your flight + hotel on Expedia to save even more — perfect for dream vacations in 2026.

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