Top 20 Destinations for Around the World Travel in 2026

One of the most thrilling travel plans is Round-the-World (RTW) travel in 2026.The world is more connected than ever, offering sightseeing, culture, nature,adventure, and affordability. This list of 20 best destinations to explore world in 2026 includes all continents and types of travel as well as old cities and tropical islands to new metropolises & natural marvels.

World Top 20 Destinations in 2026

1. Kyoto, Japan

Olden Days and Beauty of Pace

Kyoto is cultural heart of Japan where there is harmony with ancient buildings, temples, traditional tea houses and old streets. Kyoto is slower and more spiritual place to travel in comparison to Tokyo. It is must visit site for tourists who want to explore history, culture and beauty.

Popular places:

• Fushimi Inari
• Kinkaku-ji
• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
• Gion

When to go:

• March – May
• October – November

What not to miss: Geisha district and tea ceremonies

2. Queenstown, New Zealand

Adventure in Each Direction

Queenstown is fairly scenic location in world surrounded by mountains and lakes. It has been called adventure capital of New Zealand and has both adrenaline rush activities as well as nature escapes activities. It is ideal among thrill-seekers as well as nature lovers.

Popular places:

• Milford Sound
• Lake Wakatipu
• The Remarkables

When to go:

• December – February
• June – August

What not to miss: Bungee jumping & jet boating

3. Cape Town, South Africa

Nature, History and Coastline

Cape Town is city that is conception of oceans and mountains with spectacular scenery and rich cultural heritage. The city offers wide range of experiences in small radius of sightseeing and wildlife adventure. It is must visit place in Africa.

Popular places:

• Table Mountain
• Cape Point
• Boulders Beach
• Robben Island

When to go:

• November – March

What not to miss: Cape Winelands tour

4. Marrakech, Morocco

Colors, Culture & Chaos

Marrakech is crowded city that is full of sensations not only with crowded souks but also with magnificent palaces. It is full-body entry to North African culture and customs. City is almost like entering into book of history.

Popular places:

• Jemaa el-Fnaa
• Bahia Palace
• Medina
• Atlas Mountains

When to go:

• March – May
• September – November

What not to miss: Traditional riad stay

5. Reykjavik, Iceland

Doorway to Ends of the Earth

Begin visiting surreal landscapes of Iceland in Reykjavik. All these include volcanoes, glaciers, waterfalls and geothermal pools. It is perfect when one is on road in search of elements that are raw and untainted.

Popular places:

• Golden Circle
• Blue Lagoon
• Skógafoss
• Black Sand Beaches

When to go:

• June – August
• September – March (Northern Lights)

What not to miss: Glacier hikes & volcano tours

6. Bali, Indonesia

Spiritual Island Escape

Bali is not just beach resort, it is spiritual and cultural haven. Bali is renowned because of its temples, rice terraces and wellness retreats which make place attractive to both low end and high end travelers. It is one of popular places on RTW itinerary.

Popular places:

• Ubud
• Tanah Lot
• Uluwatu
• Nusa Penida

When to go:

April – October

What not to miss: Yoga & wellness retreats

7. Cusco & Machu Picchu, Peru

Ancient Inca Wonders

Cusco is entrance to one of most famous archaeological locations in world. The area combines dramatic scenery with Inca history. It is one time in lifetime place to be visited by cultural tourists.

Popular places:

• Machu Picchu
• Sacred Valley
• Sacsayhuamán

When to go:

May – September

What not to miss: Inca Trail trek

8. Barcelona, Spain

Art, Architecture, and Beaches

Barcelo is colorful metropolis that does not disrupt harmony in terms of culture and rest. It is ideal place of visit that can appeal to every type of tourists by its iconic buildings, lively streets and Mediterranean beaches. It is must see city in Europe.

Popular places:

• Sagrada Familia
• Park Güell
• La Rambla
• Barceloneta

When to go:

• May – June
• September – October

What not to miss: Tapas & food tours

9. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Luxury in Nature

Definition of paradise is Bora Bora which is characterized by turquoise waters and overwater bungalows. Although posh, it promises memorable natural sceneries and seaside experiences. It is also perfect to relax in case of long-term travelling.

Popular places:

• Mount Otemanu
• Lagoonarium
• Matira Beach

When to go:

• May – October

What not to miss: Lagoon snorkeling & sunset cruises

10. Banff National Park, Canada

Alpine dreamscape

Banff is considered to be one of most photogenic destinations in world. It has ideal scenery that consists of turquoise lakes and tall mountains making it choice of outdoor lovers. The experience is entirely different in each season.

Popular places:

• Lake Louise
• Moraine Lake
• Banff Hot Springs

When to go:

• June – September
• December – March

What not to miss: Wildlife & glacier tours

11. Buenos Aires, Argentina

Soulful and Stylish

Buenos Aires is mixture of European grace & Latin sensuality. The city has good reputation in tango, good food and colorful quarters. It is one of cultural landmarks of South America.

Popular places:

• La Boca
• Palermo
• Recoleta

When to go:

• March – May
• September – November

What not to miss: Tango performances & Argentine steaks

12. Santorini, Greece

Iconic Island Beauty

Whitewashed buildings and sunset of Santorini are known all over world. The island is romantic, historical, and beautiful. It is one of best Mediterranean destinations.

Popular places:

• Oia
• Fira
• Red Beach

When to go:

• April – June
• September – October

What not to miss: Caldera sunset tours

13. Dubai, UAE

Future Meets Tradition

Dubai is innovative, luxurious and culturally contrasted city. The skyscrapers are erected out of desert and provide experiences like no other. It is international airport that is ideal for RTW routes.

Popular places:

• Burj Khalifa
• Palm Jumeirah
• Desert Safari

When to go:

• November – March

What not to miss: Desert dune bashing

14. Phuket, Thailand

Affordable Thai Tropical Adventure

Phuket has beautiful beaches, nightlife and Thai culture. It is cheap and suitable on long stay. It is even more appealing through island hopping.

Popular places:

• Patong Beach
• Phi Phi Islands
• Big Buddha

When to go:

• November – April

What not to miss: Island-hopping boat tours

15. Istanbul, Turkey

Where East Meets West

Istanbul is a stratified city in terms of history, culture and architecture. It bridges two continents and myriads of civilizations. No city is so deep and charming.

Popular places:

• Hagia Sophia
• Blue Mosque
• Grand Bazaar

When to go:

• April – May
• September – October

What not to miss: Bosphorus sunset cruise

16. Sydney, Australia

Classic Seaside City

Sydney is the most renowned city in Australia, which has beaches, culture and outdoor lifestyle. It is colorful, picturesque and friendly. A perfect stop in Oceania.

Popular places:

• Sydney Opera House
• Bondi Beach
• Harbour Bridge

Best months to visit:

• September – November
• March – May

What makes it special: Coastal walks & surfing

17. Zanzibar, Tanzania

Exotic Island Culture

Zanzibar is mix of beaches of white sand and rich cultural traditions. The history of island as spice center makes it even more beautiful. It is ideal for decelerating in between.

Popular places:

• Nungwi Beach
• Stone Town
• Prison Island

When to go:

• June – October

What not to miss: Spice farm tours

18. Lisbon, Portugal

Europe’s Cheap Heaven

Lisbon is pretty, picturesque and economical. It is also popular among RTW visitors because of its historic neighborhoods & sea views. It suits those who are fond of food & culture.

Popular places:

• Belém Tower
• Alfama
• Tram 28

When to go:

• March – May
• September – October

What not to miss: Fado music evenings

19. Havana, Cuba

Vintage & Vibrant

Havana is place to go back in time with vintage vehicles and colorful streets. The city is dominated by music, culture and history. It is among most distinct places in world.

Popular places:

• Malecón
• Revolution Square
• Old Havana

When to go:

• November – April

What not to miss: Classic car tours

20. Seoul, South Korea

Modern Energy and Tradition

Seoul is active metropolis in which old palaces are placed in proximity to modern skyscrapers. It provides unbelievable food, night out and shopping. It’s ideal combination of conventional and new.

Popular places:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace
• Bukchon Hanok Village
• Myeongdong

When to go:

• April – May
• September – October

What not to miss Korean street food tours

Conclusion

It is not about visiting world and checking off list of places that you have visited but about travelling, adjusting to new cultures and getting to know world outside pages of guide books. It is great year to travel globally in long term and it is bound to be even better in 2026 due to enhanced global connectivity, flexible flight arrangements and increased travel infrastructure.

These destinations provided within this guide provides equal balance between culture, adventure, relaxation and affordability. You want those old cities, islands, new megacities or uncivilized nature? This route gives you leeway to construct journey that would be intimate, purposeful and memorable.

FAQs

When is the best time to plan a round-the-world trip?

Ideally 6–12 months in advance.

What is the average duration of an RTW trip?

Anywhere from 3 months to 1 year.

What is the most cost-effective way?

RTW airline tickets, budget stays, and off-season travel.