Bye bye Bali: these will be the holiday destinations for 2026

A new year means new plans. And let's be honest: what could be more fun than daydreaming about your next trip? Choosing a destination is always a challenge, but luckily we are not completely alone in this. The travel experts from Travelvalley have put together a list of the holiday destinations for 2026 — destinations that will suddenly be on everyone's radar, and for good reason.

Albanië

The time when we could still call Albania a hidden gem is now over. The country has been climbing travel lists for years, and in 2026 that will be no different — something the local population will undoubtedly notice. There is a lot of work being done on new hotels, airports, and better infrastructure to accommodate all those travelers.

One small downside: as cheap as Albania once was, it is no longer. Those new hotels have to be paid for somehow. However, the relative perspective is nice: a dinner here in the Netherlands is still more expensive.

If there is one city you cannot miss, it is not the capital Tirana (although that is also absolutely a must-visit), but Gjirokastër in the south of the country. A city full of stairs, stone houses, and typical Albanian charm. No wonder this place is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. A true bucket list moment.

Sri Lanka

For those looking a bit further this year, Sri Lanka is the place to be. With the nickname the pearl of the Indian Ocean, you already know enough: this will be a trip to remember. If you really want to experience Sri Lanka well, a round trip is the best way to discover the country. Think of days on pearly white beaches, wandering through historic cities and exploring endless tea fields. Make sure to have extra space in your camera roll.

And once there, there is one thing you absolutely cannot miss: the train journey from Ella to Kandy. It is known as one of the most beautiful train rides in the world for a reason. Seven hours on the road sounds long, but with those views, you completely lose track of time. Be sure to book your tickets on time — you are certainly not the only one with this plan.

Indonesia

Indonesia has been a popular destination for years, but it often revolves mainly around Bali. It has become so crowded there that for a relaxing vacation, it is better to skip it. For a bit more peace and just as beautiful surroundings, you should go to Lombok, the Nusa Islands, or Sumatra this year. Here too, you will find picture-perfect landscapes and sun — lots of sun.

If possible, island hopping is the dream scenario. This way, you truly discover the diversity of Indonesia, from rugged nature to quiet beaches and small villages where time seems to stand still. And if you really want, you can also just stop by Bali for a bit. To be honest: it remains delightful.

Madeira

Madeira is also a destination that has appeared on quite a few flight tickets. But a clear new trend is emerging: more and more younger travelers are finding the island. Perhaps it is due to all the TikToks with envy-inducing images — you spontaneously want to book. Madeira is perfect for relaxing in the sun, but hikers can also go wild here. The rugged, mountainous nature provides the backdrop for impressive discovery tours.

A small warning in advance: your flight here is an experience in itself. The runway is partly on pillars above the sea, making landing just a bit more exciting. No worries: pilots who are allowed to fly here are specially trained. And the view during landing — and your vacation afterwards — makes that thrilling moment more than worth it.

Mexico

2026 will be the year in which we discover new places in countries that already feel familiar. Mexico is a good example of this. You are certainly not the first to want to explore the country, but where it once revolved around Tulum and Cancún, the focus is now elsewhere. Those places have also become too crowded and are making way for cultural cities, lesser-known coastal towns, and impressive natural areas.

What should you put on your list? Oaxaca, Puerto Escondido, and Mazunte. But Mexico City is also a must, and surprisingly, the city does not feel as massively touristy as you might think. In these places, you experience just a bit more of the real Mexico, with the traditional food as the absolute highlight. Foodies, this will be your spot.

Morocco

Also in Morocco, we are massively shifting our focus this year. A city trip to Marrakech remains a recommendation, but there is more. The coast and the Atlas Mountains are gaining ground, and smaller cities are also increasingly taking part. According to travel experts, the perfect trip consists of four stops: Chefchaouen in the north, Essaouira on the coast, the historic Aït-Ben-Haddou, and Taghazout — a true surfer's paradise.

This combination shows you all sides of Morocco and ensures a photo book that you will keep looking at for a long time. From vibrant cities to quiet coastal towns and rugged mountain landscapes: the variety is exactly what makes this route so attractive.

The Greek islands

Anyone who has ever been to Greece has probably already checked off Mykonos and Santorini. And there is a good chance you noticed that you were not the only one there. The Greek islands remain popular, but fortunately, there are still plenty of alternatives to discover. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, Naxos, Paros, Samos, and Lefkada will be your new favorites.

Here, there is a bit more space between the sunbeds, and you encounter locals more often. Think of long lunches in small taverns, wandering through cozy villages, and days that pass by effortlessly. The mix of beaches, villages, and traditional dishes makes these islands perfect for those who like to experience Greece just a bit more quietly.

Sweden

When you think of Sweden, you might first think of snow and winter coats, but in 2026, summer is the moment for a trip to the north. It is a bit less sweltering than by the Mediterranean Sea, but still wonderfully sunny. And a nice bonus: you stand in line a lot less for hotspots than in cities like Rome.

If you go in August, you will also experience a typical Swedish party: Kräftskiva, the annual crayfish party. What is on the menu is not really a surprise, but that does not make it any less fun. Stockholm is always a good idea, but island hopping also beckons here. With thousands of islands off the coast, Sweden has more than enough varied options to fill your days.

Choosing remains difficult, even with this list. But one thing is certain: 2026 will be a very good travel year. Happy travels!

Source: Travelvalley