If you’re already thinking ahead for where to travel in 2026, then SAME! Between planning out our own trips as a family and coordinating trips for my clients, I’ve been deep in travel planning mode lately.
These destinations are places I’m actively booking for clients right now, places we’re planning for our own family (of 4 now!!), or spots firmly on my travel wish list. I’m sharing why each destination is worth considering in 2026, plus hotel recommendations I trust and have personally used, booked for clients, or researched extensively because I always like to share actionable tips to help you plan!
Whether you’re dreaming of a big international adventure or a long weekend closer to home, this list is full of inspiration for the best places to travel in 2026. Places where real people are actively planning their own travels this year.
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Here’s Where to Travel in 2026!
I’m sharing why each destination makes sense for 2026, what makes it special, and where I recommend staying based on hotels I’ve used before, booked for clients, or researched extensively for my own bucket list!
1. Argentina
Argentina continues to be one of the most exciting destinations I plan, especially for travelers who want culture, food, wine, and scenery all in one trip. In 2026, it remains an excellent value and feels ideal for a longer, more immersive vacation.
Most itineraries I design combine Buenos Aires and Mendoza. Buenos Aires offers incredible neighborhoods, European architecture, amazing restaurants, and a lively energy, while Mendoza is all about slowing down, wine tasting, and soaking in views of the Andes.
One of my favorite experiences I’ve planned recently is a horseback ride through the foothills with a private lunch overlooking the mountains! It’s going to be amazing.
You can also add on a few days in Patagonia like we did (either the Argentine or Chilean side of Patagonia like we did).
Where to Stay
- Palacio Duhau – Park Hyatt – Elegant, historic, and perfect if you want a refined Buenos Aires stay.
- The Vines Resort & Spa (Mendoza) – Beautiful villas surrounded by vineyards with stunning mountain views. This is where we stayed in Mendoza and it was incredible!!
2. Turks & Caicos
Turks & Caicos is one of my favorite easy wins for 2026. It’s perfect if you want white-sand beaches, clear water, and a stress-free trip especially from the East Coast. It works well for couples, girls’ trips, and families alike.
I have clients heading there in February 2026 for their wedding anniversary and it’s going to be amazing. They are staying at the newly renovated, The Palms Hotel right along Grace Bay.
Most days here revolve around the beach, boat days, snorkeling, and enjoying resort amenities. It’s the kind of place where you can truly relax without needing a packed itinerary.
Where to Stay
- The Palms Turks & Caicos – A newly renovated boutique hotel on Grace Bay with a quieter, more relaxed feel.
- The Shore Club – Stylish, beachfront, and great for travelers who want a modern luxury vibe.
- Grace Bay Club – A classic favorite with excellent service and multiple accommodation styles.
- Amanyara – The absolute top luxury resort on the island!
HOW TO BOOK WITH VIP PERKS!: When you book hotels through me, you receive VIP perks like resort credits, spa discounts, early check-in/late check-out, and potential room upgrades at no extra cost. And, I don’t charge planning fees for hotel-only bookings. Reach out to me here with your travel dates and I’ll send you the best rates and fun perks!
3. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston will always have my heart. It’s my hometown and I love helping people experience it the way a local would. In 2026, it’s a perfect choice for a short getaway that still feels special and memorable.
I have several clients heading here in 2026. One couple is staying at The HarbourView Inn where they’ll do a guided tour of Middleton Place, take a sunset sail in the harbor, and a carriage tour through the historic district.
Visitors love strolling the historic district, learning about Charleston’s history, exploring nearby plantations, and ending the day on the water. It’s a destination that really blends charm, food, history, and coastal beauty so effortlessly.
Where to Stay
- Hotel Bennett – Grand, elegant, and ideal if you want luxury right on King Street.
- Zero George – Intimate, refined, and perfect for travelers who love boutique hotels.
- The Cooper – Brand new luxury hotel opening March 2026 – the only waterfront hotel!
- The HarbourView Inn – One of my top recommendations for location, comfort, and classic Charleston style.
See more of my favorite Charleston hotel recs here!
5. Denmark
Copenhagen is one of my favorite cities in the world and we’re planning our first international trip there as a family of four in 2026. It’s incredibly easy to navigate, welcoming, and well-suited for both adults and kids!. We’ve traveled before having kids and with our daughter and it’s truly incredible for couples and families.
Days here are spent biking through the city, visiting Tivoli Gardens, enjoying incredible food, and soaking up the design-forward yet relaxed atmosphere. It’s also a great jumping-off point for day trips to castles or the coast.
Check out my 3 day Copenhagen Itinerary here.
Where to Stay
- Villa Copenhagen – My top pick for families thanks to spacious rooms, a rooftop pool, and a central location. We’ve stayed here several times and love it especially with our kids.
- Hotel Sanders – Cozy, romantic, and ideal for couples looking for a boutique stay. We’ve also stayed here several times pre-kids and it’s one of my favorite hotels ever!
6. Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket
We’re currently debating between Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket for a summer weekend getaway in 2026. Both offer classic New England charm, beautiful beaches, and a slower pace that feels perfect for family travel.
Expect beach days, bike rides, coastal walks, and lots of seafood-focused meals. Either destination makes for a great long weekend on the East Coast.
Where to Stay
- Harbor View Hotel (Martha’s Vineyard) – Waterfront, walkable, and great for families.
- White Elephant Nantucket – A quintessential Nantucket stay with beautiful harbor views.
- Winnetu (Martha’s Vineyard) – A great beach resort option for families.
7. Mallorca
Mallorca has been climbing my list and 2026 feels like the right time to finally visit! The island offers a mix of beaches, mountains, charming towns, and culture, making it ideal if you want variety in one destination.
We’re currently weighing hotel options, especially when it comes to finding the right balance between luxury and family-friendly amenities. It’s proving much harder to find that perfect spot with two kids now.
Where to Stay
- Belmond La Residencia – Romantic, artistic, and tucked into the mountains. Perfect for couples!
- Cap Rocat – Dramatic, unique, and perfect for a special occasion. Their suites are incredible for couples.
- Ikos Porto Petro – A strong option for families who want an elevated, easy experience.
- Four Seasons Mallorca – A luxury hotel right along the coast with a swimmable beach.
8. Cabo San Lucas
Believe it or not, I’ve never been to Cabo. I love Mexico and it’s such an easy trip for us.
Cabo is finally on my personal travel list for 2026. It’s one of the easiest warm-weather destinations from the U.S. and offers incredible resorts, great dining, and beautiful desert-meets-ocean scenery.
This is a destination where you can keep things simple—relax at the resort, enjoy spa treatments, and head out on the water for a day.
The hardest part is choosing between all the incredible hotels. Right now, we’re looking at Four Seasons or One&Only as good family friendly options for us!
Where to Stay
- Four Seasons Cabo del Sol – Luxurious, modern, and ideal for both couples and families.
- One&Only Palmilla – A classic Cabo favorite with exceptional service.
9. Greenland
Greenland should absolutely be on your radar for 2026 travel. With new direct routes from the U.S., it’s becoming more accessible than ever—and I truly think it’s about to blow up.
This is a once-in-a-lifetime destination known for glaciers, fjords, wildlife, and dramatic landscapes. Going sooner rather than later means fewer crowds and a more untouched feel. Plus, better prices!
I’m not sure how kid-friendly it would be, so we might have to wait until our kids are a bit older. Otherwise, I’d be packing my bag for an adventurous 2026 vacation!
Where to Stay
- Hotel Arctic – One of the best-known hotels with stunning views.
- Ilimanaq Lodge – Remote, design-forward cabins for an unforgettable experience. The views look insane!!
10. South Korea
South Korea continues to gain popularity thanks to new luxury hotel openings and growing interest in its culture and food scene. In 2026, it’s an exciting option for travelers looking for something dynamic and different.
Seoul blends modern skyscrapers with historic palaces and temples and the food alone is reason enough to visit!
Where to Stay
- Four Seasons Seoul – Central location with polished luxury we love from FS!
- Signiel Seoul – Iconic views and a sleek, modern experience.
11. Albania
Albania is one of the destinations I’m most intrigued by right now. Friends who’ve visited rave about the natural beauty and, just as importantly, how kind and welcoming the locals are.
They said the locals were so kind and genuinely glad to have tourists there (which is a refreshing change from overrun destinations where the locals are just over it!). I also heard they felt perfectly safe, though mostly stayed at their resort with a fun boat trip one day.
It offers a refreshing alternative to more over-touristed Mediterranean destinations, with beautiful coastlines, historic towns, and a slower pace of travel.
Where to Stay
- Miramar Hotel – A stylish, beachfront option along the Albanian Riviera with beautiful views and a relaxed luxury feel.
- Luxury resorts along the Albanian Riviera – Still emerging, but worth watching closely.
12. Crete, Greece
I’ll never stop loving the Greek islands and Crete feels especially exciting heading into 2026 with the opening of Rosewood Blue Palace. We love the Rosewood brand and they tend to be pretty family friendly, too!
Crete offers incredible food, beaches, historic sites, and a more varied landscape than many smaller islands, making it ideal for a longer stay. The good thing about Crete is its location further south where it tends to stay warmer for longer than some of the other islands. You can visit into October and still get nice weather!
Where to Stay
- Rosewood Blue Palace – Opening in 2026 and already one of the most anticipated hotels in Greece.
13. Japan
Japan was one of the most popular destinations of 2025—and after visiting Tokyo and Kyoto myself last year, I completely understand why. In 2026, it’s still an incredible time to go and now I have the first hand experience to help you guys plan!
From the energy of Tokyo to the cultural depth of Kyoto, Japan offers a travel experience that feels deeply meaningful. It was hands down one of the best trips we’ve taken and I’d love to explore it more fully.
Where to Stay
- Aman Tokyo – Serene, refined, and an unforgettable city stay.
- Four Seasons Tokyo at Otemachi – Modern luxury with incredible views. This is where we stayed with our 18 month old and it was a dream! Read my full FS Tokyo review here.
- The Shinmonzen (Kyoto) – Boutique, design-forward, and perfectly located. THE most friendly people I have ever encountered here and SOOO above and beyond kind to our toddler. We loved staying at The Shinmonzen.
The Wrap Up: Where to Travel in 2026
I could keep going on and on about where to travel in 2026. There are so many amazing places waiting to be discovered. This lists is based on where my clients are going this year and where I’m personally planning my own trips!
If 2026 is the year you want to travel more intentionally, whether that’s a big international adventure or a simple, meaningful getaway, I’d love to help.
I plan trips like these every day, handling everything from hotels and logistics to special experiences and VIP perks so you can focus on making memories. Inquire here to get started planning your dream 2026 vacation!
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