Best Travel Destinations 2026: 7 Places Worth Visiting This Year

Choosing the best travel destinations 2026 has on offer is no small task. With flight prices stabilising and new routes opening from UK airports, this is shaping up to be a brilliant year for getting away. Whether you want beaches, culture, or city breaks, these seven picks cover the lot.

Best Travel Destinations 2026: Our Top Picks

We looked at flight availability from the UK, value for money, safety ratings, and traveller reviews to put this list together. These are places where your money goes further without sacrificing the experience.

Every destination here offers something distinct, from street food scenes to stunning coastlines. The best travel destinations 2026 will reward you whether you are a solo traveller, a couple, or a family.

1. Thailand – Best for Value and Culture

Thailand topped Google search trends for UK travellers this year, and for good reason. Bangkok alone offers world-class temples, rooftop bars, and some of the finest street food on the planet. A meal from a market stall costs around 50p.

Head south to Krabi or Koh Lanta for quieter beaches without the crowds of Phuket. Internal flights cost as little as £25 one way. The Thai baht remains favourable for sterling, making it one of the best travel destinations 2026 for budget-conscious visitors.

2. Japan – Best for a Once-in-a-Lifetime Trip

Japan has been climbing UK travel wishlists for years, and 2026 is a strong time to go. The yen is weaker than it has been in decades, meaning that a country once considered expensive is now surprisingly affordable.

Tokyo and Kyoto are the obvious draws, but consider Osaka for its food culture or Hiroshima for its moving history. The Japan Rail Pass makes getting around simple and cost-effective. Cherry blossom season in late March and early April is peak time, so book well ahead.

3. Croatia – Best for European Beach Holidays

Croatia continues to impress. Dubrovnik gets the headlines, but Split and Hvar offer equally stunning scenery with fewer tourists. Direct flights from several UK airports keep costs manageable.

The Adriatic coastline is among Europe’s cleanest, and local restaurants serve fresh seafood at a fraction of what you would pay in Italy or France. Expect to pay around £8 to £12 for a quality meal out. Croatia is one of the best travel destinations 2026 for anyone wanting Mediterranean vibes without the premium price tag.

4. Portugal – Best for City Breaks and Coastline

Lisbon and Porto remain two of Europe’s most appealing cities. The food scene is exceptional, public transport is cheap, and the weather is reliable from April through October. Portugal’s Algarve coast is also a solid pick for families wanting safe, sandy beaches.

What sets Portugal apart in 2026 is the growing number of direct regional flights from UK airports beyond London. If you are based in Manchester, Birmingham, or Edinburgh, getting to Portugal has never been easier or cheaper.

5. Turkey – Best for All-Inclusive Value

Turkey offers arguably the best pound-to-experience ratio in 2026. Istanbul is a city that straddles two continents and delivers on history, food, and nightlife in equal measure.

For beach holidays, the Turquoise Coast around Fethiye and Kas provides stunning scenery. All-inclusive resorts in Antalya remain some of the most affordable in the world for UK families. According to UK Government travel advice, Turkey is open and welcoming to British visitors with no visa complications for stays under 90 days.

6. Mexico – Best for Adventure Seekers

Mexico has surged in popularity among UK travellers. The Yucatan Peninsula offers ancient Mayan ruins, cenotes for swimming, and the Caribbean coast at Tulum and Playa del Carmen. Direct flights from London Gatwick to Cancun make it accessible.

Mexico City is a world-class destination in its own right, with museums, street food, and architecture that rivals any European capital. The best travel destinations 2026 include Mexico because the peso offers strong value, and the infrastructure for tourists is well established.

7. North Yorkshire – Best UK Staycation

Not every great trip requires a passport. North Yorkshire has received renewed attention in 2026 thanks to the Coast to Coast Path gaining National Trail status. Whitby, York, and the North York Moors offer history, hiking, and some of the best fish and chips in the country.

If you want a break without the airport hassle, this part of England delivers. Weekend trips from most UK cities are easy by train, and accommodation ranges from cosy B&Bs to converted barns. For more ideas on things to enjoy at home, check out our guide to the best jacket potato toppings for cosy evenings in.

How to Book the Best Travel Destinations 2026

Flexibility is your biggest advantage when booking. Midweek flights are consistently cheaper, and shoulder season (just before or after peak) gives you better weather than you might expect with far smaller crowds.

Use comparison sites to track prices over a few weeks before committing. Travel insurance is non-negotiable – the NHS recommends arranging cover before any trip abroad. Also check our look at 2026 food trends if you want to know what to eat when you get there.

What is the cheapest travel destination from the UK in 2026?

Turkey and Portugal consistently offer the lowest combined costs for flights and accommodation from UK airports. All-inclusive packages to Turkey can start from under £400 per person for a week.

Is Japan expensive to visit in 2026?

Less so than in previous years. The weak yen means that meals, transport, and accommodation are significantly cheaper for UK visitors than they were five years ago. Budget around £80 to £100 per day for a comfortable trip.

When is the best time to book 2026 travel?

For summer holidays, booking between January and March typically gets you the best prices. For winter sun destinations, September and October bookings tend to offer the strongest deals.

Do I need a visa for any of these destinations?

UK passport holders can visit all seven destinations on this list without a pre-arranged visa. Thailand allows 60-day visa-free stays, Japan allows 90 days, and all European destinations fall under standard tourist entry rules.