Europe's Alpine Mountains, Canada's Lakes, China's UNESCO sites, the Caribbean's first sperm whale reserve, and Morocco's Imperial Heritage are going to be the most famous travel spots of the coming year.

National Geographic has released its list of the world's top destinations for 2026. This year, the focus is on places that combine nature, culture, and adventure. Europe's magnificent Alpine mountains, Canada's lakes, China's new UNESCO sites, the Caribbean's first sperm whale reserve, and Morocco's Imperial Heritage are all poised to become the most popular travel spots this coming year. So, if you're planning your first foreign trip in 2026, let us tell you about the hottest destinations of 2026.

1 /6

Italy's magnificent Dolomites are renowned for their towering mountains, sharp peaks, and beautiful Alpine landscape. In 2026, this place will be even more special, as the Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games will be held here in February and March.

2 /6

Canada's new Nibischi National Park is a serene nature preserve spanning 4,000 square miles. It's the province's first park managed by the Cree Nation of Mistissini. It offers waterfront cabins, floating chalets, and spectacular views of the boreal forest. Year-round Indigenous experiences, fireside storytelling, and winter survival classes are also highlights.

3 /6

China's capital, Beijing, is also included in this list. Beijing recently added its approximately 5-mile-long Beijing Central Access Historical and Cultural Corridor to the UNESCO World Heritage List. Following this, a new sightseeing bus has been launched in Beijing, connecting several sites. The nighttime illuminated Great Wall is also a major attraction.

4 /6

Additionally, Dominica in the Caribbean is launching the world's first sperm whale reserve, protecting approximately 800 square kilometers of ocean. Travelers can swim with sperm whales or observe them up close, while also enjoying views of lush rainforests and hot springs via one of the world's longest cable cars.

5 /6

Meanwhile, Morocco's capital, Rabat, offers a stunning blend of history and modern architecture. The Royal Theatre of Rabat, designed by Zaha Hadid, and the Mohammed VI Tower, the country's tallest building, will become landmarks in 2026. UNESCO has also declared Rabat the 2026 World Book Capital.

6 /6

Hull, Yorkshire, is also on the list of hot destinations for 2026. In 2026, the city of Hull is set to showcase its 800-year-old maritime heritage in a new light. A $53 million restoration project will open the Hull Maritime Museum, the North End Shipyard, and two historic ships, the Arctic Corsair and the Spurn Lightship, to the public.