Where to travel in 2026
Up-and-Coming Destinations for Solo Travelers
Where to travel in 2026
Six standout places to discover next—before they're on everyone's radar.
If you’re already thinking about where 2026 might take you, you’re in good company. More solo travelers are looking beyond the usual bucket list classics and choosing destinations that feel new, easy to navigate, and genuinely exciting—places that still come with that wow factor, without making travel feel overwhelming.
From energy-packed cities to breathtaking coastlines and wide-open natural landscapes, these rising destinations are expected to be big in 2026. Each one offers its own style of adventure, but they share one thing in common: they’re ideal for travelers who love exploring with confidence, curiosity, and a little sense of spontaneity.
South Korea – tradition, trend and nonstop energy
South Korea is the kind of destination that keeps surprising you—in the best way. One moment you’re wandering through ancient temples, and the next you’re in a neon-lit neighborhood filled with stylish cafés, street food, and buzzing markets. Every day feels different here, whether you’re visiting centuries-old palaces, sampling sizzling local dishes, or soaking up the rhythm of city life. South Korea continues to rise as a favorite for solo travelers thanks to its excellent transit system, strong safety reputation, and endlessly fascinating culture.
Coastal scenery and beach time around Busan
Traditional neighborhoods alongside cutting-edge design
Albania – Europe’s rising star
Albania is one of those places people visit once—and then rave about for years. With its crystal-clear coastline, dramatic mountain scenery, and historic towns, it offers Mediterranean beauty with a more laid-back, unspoiled feel. It’s a destination made for taking your time, wandering, and enjoying the moment. As one of Europe’s most exciting emerging hotspots, Albania offers incredible value, rich history, and stunning scenery—without the crowds.
Highlights include:
The turquoise waters of the Albanian RivieraUNESCO-listed towns like Berat and Gjirokastër
Rugged mountain landscapes in the north
Malta – sunshine, history and sea breezes
Malta may be small, but it delivers big when it comes to character. With ancient cities, charming harbors, and gorgeous coastal views, it’s the kind of place where your day might start with sightseeing and end with a swim—or a sunset stroll by the sea. With year-round sunshine, English widely spoken, and an easy-going atmosphere, Malta is a great choice for solo travelers who want something relaxing but still full of discovery.
Highlights include:
Valletta’s historic streets and waterfrontThe peaceful pace of life on Gozo
Coastal walks, scenic viewpoints, and swimming spots
Bulgaria – colorful culture and great value
Bulgaria is quietly becoming one of Europe’s most interesting places to explore. It blends vibrant cities with historic towns, traditional villages, and beautiful countryside—plus a growing reputation for delicious food and excellent wine. It feels familiar enough to be easy, but still different enough to feel like a real discovery. Bulgaria offers rich cultural experiences at great value, making it perfect for travelers who want something authentic without tourist crowds.
Highlights include:
Sofia’s mix of history and modern café culturePlovdiv’s colorful old town
Scenic rural regions and vineyards
Slovenia – green, calm and unforgettable
Slovenia has a way of winning people over fast. It’s compact, beautifully green, and incredibly easy to explore—ideal for solo travelers who like a slower pace without missing out on variety. From clear alpine lakes to charming cities and mountain landscapes, it’s calm, refreshing, and inspiring all at once. With its strong focus on sustainability, plus stunning scenery and a welcoming feel, Slovenia continues to earn its place as one of Europe’s most appealing up-and-coming destinations.
Highlights include:
Lake Bled and its storybook islandLjubljana’s café-lined riverside and laid-back vibe
Alpine landscapes and crisp mountain air
Atlantic Canada & Eastern Canada – wide-open scenery and coastal charm
If you’re ready for a bigger adventure in 2026, Eastern Canada delivers some of the most spectacular scenery and welcoming communities anywhere. This is a destination made for slowing down: scenic drives, coastal towns, wildlife sightings, and breathtaking landscapes that stretch as far as the eye can see. Atlantic Canada is gaining attention for its unspoiled coastlines, character-filled towns, and relaxed pace—a perfect combination for solo travelers who want space, scenery, and a refreshing change of pace.
Highlights include:
Nova Scotia’s historic cities, coastal routes, and fishing villagesThe Cabot Trail & Cape Breton’s epic fall scenery
Kejimkujik National Park’s wild, open landscapes
Why these destinations are great for solo travelers
Each of these places offers what more travelers are craving in 2026:
A sense of discovery without added stressWelcoming cultures and easy-to-navigate cities
A balance of sightseeing, scenery and downtime
Plenty of moments worth sharing and remembering
Ready to start planning your 2026 trip?
If you’re looking for a vacation that feels exciting, effortless, and a little outside the ordinary, these emerging destinations are a great place to start. With a Tour Leader there from the moment you arrive, a friendly group of fellow solo travelers, and an itinerary that’s thoughtfully planned from start to finish, you can relax and enjoy the experience—knowing everything’s handled.
Whether you’re drawn to the energy of South Korea, the sunshine of Malta, or the wide-open beauty of Eastern Canada, 2026 is shaping up to be a brilliant year to try somewhere new.
If you’re already thinking about where 2026 might take you, you’re in good company. More solo travelers are looking beyond the usual bucket-list classics and choosing destinations that feel new, easy to navigate, and genuinely exciting—places that still come with that wow factor, without making travel feel overwhelming.
From energy-packed cities to breathtaking coastlines and wide-open natural landscapes, these rising destinations are expected to be big in 2026. Each one offers its own style of adventure, but they share one thing in common: they’re ideal for travelers who love exploring with confidence, curiosity, and a little sense of spontaneity.
