Discover the world: Tripadvisor’s top destinations for 2026 | News

Tripadvisor®, the world’s largest travel guidance platform, today announced the first Travelers’ Choice® Awards category for 2026: Best of the Best Destinations, celebrating the places travelers around the world love most.

Every year, Tripadvisor analyzes millions of reviews and ratings from the global community to discover the most trusted recommendations so travelers can plan unforgettable trips and discover the world’s best experiences. The Travellers’ Choice Awards: Best of the Best Destinations span multiple categories, including top destinations, popular destinations, culture destinations, food destinations, honeymoon destinations and solo travel destinations.

“Tripadvisor is the world’s most trusted travel platform, built on the experiences of millions of travelers around the world,” said Laurel Greatrix, Chief Communications Officer of Tripadvisor Group. “From iconic cities like Bangkok and London to cultural hubs, serene beach vacations and romantic getaways in Madeira, Singapore, Bali and beyond, the Best of the Best Destinations showcase the places that make every trip unforgettable – and inspire travelers to explore the world with confidence.”

Bali named top destination in the world, while New York City takes the lead in the US for another year

For 2026, Bali, Indonesia deserves the title of #1 top destination in the world, a living postcard admired for its beautiful lush landscapes and white sandy beaches. Travelers can explore incredible views with unforgettable hospitality by taking a Mount Batur Jeep Adventure or enjoy snorkeling among the famous manta rays with a private tour on this Nusa Penida day trip: boat, 4 snorkeling, manta rays and land tour.

In addition to Bali, New York City, London, Dubai, Paris, Rome and Bangkok are also among the world’s top destinations, reflecting travelers’ continued passion for iconic cities combined with immersive cultural experiences.

In the United States, New York City reclaims the top spot, cementing its reputation as a global hub for food, culture, entertainment and the arts. Other top destinations in the US include Las Vegas, Nashville, New Orleans, Chicago and Washington, DC, in addition to beloved coastal and leisure destinations such as O’ahu, Key West, Charleston and Boston.

Top Destinations – World
1. Bali, Indonesia
2. London, UK
3. Dubai, UAE
4. Hanoi, Vietnam
5. Paris, France
6. Rome, Italy
7. Marrakesh, Morocco
8. Bangkok, Thailand
9. Crete, Greece
10. New York City, USA

Top Destinations – USA
1. New York, NY
2. Las Vegas, NV
3. Oahu, hello
4. Nashville, Tenn
5. New Orleans, LA
6. Chicago, Illinois
7. Charleston, SC
8. Key West, FL
9. Washington DC
10. Boston, MA

Trending for 2026

Madeira, Portugal has been named the world’s No. 1 trending destination for 2026, capturing travelers’ attention with its dramatic natural beauty and relaxing pace. An under-the-radar island, Madeira is a perfect escape for a family-friendly getaway without the crowds, offering an immersive mix of adventure and leisure, from natural pools to volcanic hikes. Take a Madeira Island Canyoning tour to get an intimate view of the island’s native wildlife and geography in Funchal’s Ecological Park.

After number 2, Tbilisi, Georgia continues its rise as a must-visit destination with incredible energy. Set against the backdrop of a dramatic valley, the city combines cobbled streets, colorful architecture and a growing arts scene.

The top 10 is completed by emerging and re-emerging destinations in Europe, Latin America, the Middle East and Asia, including Quy Nhon, Puerto Escondido, Milan, Glasgow, Abu Dhabi, Recife and San Carlos de Bariloche.

Popular Destinations – World
1. Madeira, Portugal
2. Tbilisi, Georgia
3. Chicago, USA
4. Quy Nhon, Vietnam
5. Puerto Escondido, Mexico
6. Milan, Italy
7. Glasgow, UK
8. Abu Dhabi, UAE
9. Recife, Brazil
10. San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina

Solo travel destinations

For the second year, Tripadvisor highlights the best solo travel destinations, with cities and regions perfect for travelers exploring on their own as solo travel grows in popularity. Taking the top spot, Dublin, Ireland combines rich historic architecture, a food culture to suit every taste, from Michelin-star dining to classic pub fare and friendly, down-to-earth charm. The city is very walkable, making it easy to explore sights like St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin Castle, and famous distilleries, where travelers can get their whiskey straight from the source on a Dublin Jameson Distillery Bow St. Tour and Tasting tour.

Solo Travel Destinations – World
1. Dublin, Ireland
2. Berlin, Germany
3. London, UK
4. Santiago, Chile
5. Edinburgh, UK
6. New York City, USA
7. Hanoi, Vietnam
8. Madrid, Spain
9. Bali, Indonesia
10. Cape Town Central, South Africa

The best of the rest

By 2026, London will rise from last year’s No. 2 to the No. 1 food destination in the world, celebrated for its diverse culinary scene, from Michelin-starred restaurants to vibrant street food markets. Dubai makes its debut on the list this year, taking second place with its dynamic blend of traditional Middle Eastern flavors and innovative international cuisine.

Food Destinations – World
1. London, UK
2. Dubai, UAE
3. Rome, Italy
4. Hong Kong, China
5. Paris, France
6. Mallorca, Spain
7. Doha, Qatar
8. Crete, Greece
9. Bangkok, Thailand
10. Marrakesh, Morocco

Food Destinations – USA
1. New York, NY
2. Las Vegas, NV
3. Maui, hello
4. Orlando, FL
5. Miami, FL
6. Chicago, Illinois
7. Oahu, hello
8. Boston, Massachusetts
9. San Francisco, CA
10. Nashville, Tenn

Tripadvisor’s Cultural Destinations 2026 highlight the world’s most inspiring places for art, history and local traditions. Singapore debuts at No. 1, taking over the top spot from last year’s leader, Bali. London, UK, rises from number 3 to number 2 and remains celebrated for its iconic landmarks, museums and vibrant arts scene. Climbing into the top three this year is Krakow, Poland, known for its historic streets and thriving creative energy.

Cultural destinations – World
1. Singapore
2. London, UK
3. Krakow, Poland
4. Paris, France
5. Rome, Italy
6. Edinburgh, UK
7. Hanoi, Vietnam
8. Budapest, Hungary
9. Kyoto, Japan
10. Bali, Indonesia

For couples looking to celebrate one of their most special milestones, Tripadvisor’s Honeymoon Destinations highlight the world’s most romantic getaways. From tropical islands and serene beaches to charming towns and scenic retreats, these destinations offer travelers unforgettable experiences, intimate moments and the perfect backdrop for celebrating love.

Honeymoon Destinations – World
1. Bali, Indonesia
2. Mauritius
3. Maldives
4. St. Lucia
5. Galle, Sri Lanka
6. Hue, Vietnam
7. Napa, USA
8. Positano, Italy
9. Watamu, Kenya
10. Antigua

Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Destinations

The 2026 Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Destinations are calculated based on the quality and quantity of reviews, specific to each award subcategory, for accommodations, restaurants and activities at destinations from travelers worldwide on Tripadvisor between October 1, 2024 and September 30, 2025.