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Lonely Planet’s Top Travel Destinations for 2026

November 12, 2025
warHial Published by Osadciuc Daria 5 months ago

Haven’t booked your 2026 vacation yet? It’s time to start planning. Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2026 guide, released on October 21, unveils 25 destinations and 25 unique experiences, together with curated itineraries via the new Lonely Planet Journeys service.

Best Places to Visit

One standout is Liberdade, São Paulo’s “Little Japan,” home to the world’s largest Japanese community outside Japan — around two million people. Expect anime murals, peaceful oriental gardens, and some of the best ramen outside Tokyo.

Other urban gems include Mexico City, praised for its art, cuisine, and walkable districts like Coyoacán and La Condesa.
In the U.S., Theodore Roosevelt National Park (North Dakota) and Maine are featured for their wild landscapes and coastal charm.

In Europe, Tipperary, Ireland is highlighted as a hidden treasure, while in Asia, Phuket, Thailand is evolving into a paradise for digital nomads.
Also featured: Botswana, Peru, Jeju-do (South Korea), Sardinia (Italy), Tunisia, Cartagena (Colombia), Finland, Vietnam, British Columbia (Canada), and more.

Food & Culture Experiences

Food lovers can explore culinary tours in Old Dubai and Kerala, India, famous for its spices and coastal flavors.
Melbourne, Australia, earns praise for its dynamic, multicultural food scene.
Wine fans will love Oregon’s Willamette Valley, while Grenada’s Spicemas Festival and Belgrade’s nightlife promise unforgettable parties.

Unique Stays

Recommended stays include:

  • a night in a Japanese ryokan with hot springs and traditional meals;

  • sleeping aboard the Kruger Shalati train hotel in South Africa;

  • and resting at Volcano House in Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park.

    Adventures in Nature

    Highlights for thrill-seekers include:

    • rafting in the Grand Canyon,

    • stargazing in New Zealand’s Wairarapa,

    • trekking in Tajikistan,

    • Mekong River cruises, and

    • cycling through the Batanes Islands (Philippines).

    Wildlife experiences range from whale watching in the Azores to tracking elephants in Namibia and spotting jaguars in Argentina.

    Sports & Culture

    Catch a Premier League match in England, watch Bolivia’s iconic Cholitas wrestlers, explore street art in Bristol, or visit Eileen Gray’s house in France.
    Lonely Planet celebrates 2026 as a year for bold travelers and immersive experiences.

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