Where to travel in 2026
Six exciting places to explore next—before everyone else gets there.
If you’re already thinking ahead to 2026 and feeling the pull of somewhere new, you’re not alone. More solo travellers are swapping well-trodden favourites for destinations that feel fresh, welcoming and full of discovery—places that still surprise you, without making travel feel complicated.
From culture-packed cities to scenic coastlines and big open landscapes, these emerging destinations are set to shine in 2026. Each one offers something different, but they all have one thing in common: they’re ideal for travellers who love exploring with confidence, curiosity and a sense of adventure.

South Korea – tradition, trend and total energy
South Korea is a destination that constantly keeps you on your toes—in the best possible way. Ancient temples sit beside ultra-modern neighbourhoods, while bustling street markets lead into calm palace gardens and quiet cafés. It’s a place where every day feels different, whether you’re sampling sizzling street food, exploring historic sites or soaking up the buzz of city life. South Korea is fast becoming a favourite for solo travellers thanks to its brilliant public transport, high levels of safety and endlessly fascinating culture.
Highlights include:
• Exploring Seoul’s palaces and vibrant districts
• Coastal scenery and beaches around Busan
• Traditional neighbourhoods alongside cutting-edge design

Albania – Europe’s rising star
Albania is one of those destinations people visit once… then can’t stop talking about. With its clear-blue coastline, rugged mountains and historic towns, it offers the beauty of the Mediterranean with a refreshingly unspoilt feel. Life moves at a gentler pace here, making it easy to slow down, explore and really take it all in. As one of Europe’s most exciting emerging destinations, Albania offers great value, rich culture and spectacular scenery—without the crowds.
Highlights include:
• The turquoise waters of the Albanian Riviera
• UNESCO-listed towns like Berat and Gjirokastër
• Dramatic mountain landscapes in the north

Malta – sunshine, history and sea views
Malta may be small, but it packs in an impressive amount of history, character and coastal charm. From ancient cities to laid-back island life, it’s a destination that’s easy to explore and hard to leave. Days here often start with sightseeing and end by the sea, with plenty of time for long lunches and evening strolls. With year-round sunshine, English widely spoken and a welcoming atmosphere, Malta is perfect for solo travellers wanting an easy yet rewarding escape.
Highlights include:
• Valletta’s historic streets and harbours
• Peaceful Gozo and its slower pace of life
• Scenic coastal walks and swimming spots
Bulgaria – culture, colour and great value
Bulgaria is quietly becoming one of Europe’s most interesting places to explore. It blends lively cities with historic towns, traditional villages and beautiful countryside—plus a growing reputation for food and wine. It’s the kind of destination that feels both familiar and surprising at the same time. Bulgaria offers rich cultural experiences at excellent value, making it ideal for travellers keen to explore somewhere less crowded and more authentic.
Highlights include:
• Sofia’s mix of old-world history and modern cafés
• Plovdiv’s colourful old town
• Scenic rural regions and vineyards
Slovenia – green, calm and quietly captivating
Slovenia has a way of winning people over almost instantly. It’s compact, beautifully green and wonderfully easy to explore—perfect if you like a relaxed pace without missing out. From crystal-clear lakes to alpine scenery and charming cities, it’s a destination that feels both peaceful and inspiring. Slovenia’s focus on sustainability, combined with its scenery and welcoming feel, makes it one of Europe’s most appealing emerging destinations.
Highlights include:
• Lake Bled and its iconic island
• Ljubljana’s friendly, café-lined riverside
• Alpine landscapes and fresh mountain air
Atlantic Canada & Eastern Canada – wide-open scenery and warm welcomes
For travellers ready to go a little further in 2026, Eastern Canada offers some of the most dramatic scenery and welcoming communities you’ll find anywhere. It’s a destination made for slowing down—think coastal drives, historic towns, wildlife sightings and big, beautiful landscapes. Atlantic Canada is gaining attention for its unspoilt coastlines, characterful cities and relaxed pace, making it ideal for solo travellers seeking space and scenery.
Highlights include:
• Nova Scotia’s historic cities, coastal routes and fishing villages
• The Cabot Trail & Cape Breton Highlands’ jaw-dropping scenery
• Kejimkujik National Park’s wild heartland landscapes
Why these destinations work so well for solo travellers
Each of these places offers something travellers increasingly look for in 2026:
• A sense of discovery without difficulty
• Welcoming cultures and easy exploration
• A balance of sightseeing, scenery and downtime
• Plenty of moments worth sharing
Ready to plan your 2026 adventure?
If you’re craving a trip that feels exciting, easy and just a little bit different, these emerging destinations are the perfect place to start. With a Tour Leader escorting you from the moment you arrive, a small group of solo travellers to enjoy the experience with and a meticulously planned itinerary, we’re with you all the way!
Whether you’re drawn to the buzz of South Korea, the sunshine of Malta or the wide-open landscapes of Eastern Canada, 2026 is shaping up to be a brilliant year to travel somewhere new.













