In 2026, travelers tend to design their trips as unique as they are – curating journeys that reflect exactly who they are, what they want, and what they love, marking the rise of trips that are more individual, more experimental, and more unapologetically true to who travelers really are. And before 2025 ends, Booking.com, one of the world’s leading travel platforms, uncovers the trending destinations set to become must-visit vacation spots in next year,* which are about embracing what lights travelers up, from fishing villages turned coastal gems to reimagined industrial hubs offering visitors the buzz of city life.
Mũi Né, Vietnam
On Vietnam’s sun-kissed southeast coast, Mũi Né offers a dreamy blend of natural beauty, local culture, and adventure. Once a quiet fishing village, it’s now a laid-back beach escape with golden sands, coconut palms, and ocean breezes perfect for kite surfing. Travelers can also enjoy fresh seafood at beachside shacks, explore traditional fishing ports, and wander through local markets, temples, and villages to experience the authentic taste of Vietnam.
Where to stay: Nestled along a private beachfront, Sailing Club Resort Mũi Né offers a boutique escape with tropical gardens and elegant Vietnamese-inspired design. With 31 rooms, guests can relax by the beachfront pool, savor fresh seafood at Sandals Restaurant, or try kite surfing just steps from the shore.
Bilbao, Spain
Once an industrial hub, Bilbao has reinvented itself as one of Europe’s most captivating cultural destinations. The iconic Guggenheim Museum anchors the riverside, symbolizing the city’s modern alongside the natural beauty of the surrounding Basque hills. Bilbao’s compact old town, Casco Viejo, charms with narrow medieval streets, bustling pintxos bars, and street markets. Set on Spain’s northern coast, Bilbao surprises with rugged shorelines, misty mountains, lush landscapes, and easy access to coastal towns, and surf beaches explore the gems of the Bay of Biscay from Bilbao.
Where to stay: For an intimate stay in Bilbao, Bilder Boutique Hotel offers a central base with Arriaga Theater just a few steps away and Abando Train Station a 6-minute walk. With contemporary design, attentive service, and a prime location close to the Old Town, Guggenheim Museum, Casa del Jaspe, and Palacio Salcedo, the hotel is perfect for relax after the city’s historic and cultural gems exploration.
Barranquilla, Colombia
Barranquilla pulses with tropical pride on Colombia’s northern Caribbean coast, set along the banks of the Magdalena River. Famous for the UNESCO-listed Carnaval de Barranquilla, the city dazzles with parades, cumbia music, and vibrant costumes. Stroll the Malecón del Río for riverside views, explore the leafy El Prado district with historic mansions and street art, and savor local delights like butifarra, coconut rice, and fresh seafood.
Where to stay: Hotel El Prado, an iconic landmark for travelers to easily soak up the city’s heritage since 1930, charms with elegant Spanish architecture, palm-lined gardens, and bright classic rooms. Relax by the serene outdoor pool, enjoy traditional Colombian cuisine at the on-site restaurant, or sip a cocktail on the poolside terrace. Perfectly located to explore the Modern Art Museum and Carnival Museum, it’s a timeless base to experience the city’s rich culture and history.
Philadelphia, USA
Philadelphia is a city where the history of America’s founding meets contemporary culture. It’s home to landmarks like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed. With the country’s Semiquincentennial approaching in 2026, the city will take center stage in commemorating 250 years of independence, offering visitors a front-row seat to historic celebrations. Alongside these landmark moments, Philly is also preparing to host major sporting events like the FIFA World Cup, MLB All-Star Game, and NCAA March Madness, making it a true hub of history, sports, and entertainment, guaranteeing a memorable and dynamic urban escape.
Where to stay: As Philadelphia prepares for its landmark year in 2026, group travel to the city is expected to rise. This spacious Large 3BR Apts & Studios, Gym, Game Room in the Francisville neighborhood offers a fully equipped kitchen, a private terrace, and plenty of room to relax. The property is within walking distance of downtown attractions and just a 20-minute walk from the iconic Franklin Institute, making it easy to explore the best of Philadelphia by day and unwind together in comfort at night.
Guangzhou, China
Guangzhou is a major metropolis in southern mainland China, rich in cultural heritage. As one of the country’s oldest trading ports and a key hub on the ancient Maritime Silk Road, the city is home to centuries-old temples, traditional dim sum teahouses, and the elegant architecture of Shamian Island. With its year-round subtropical climate and proximity to Hong Kong and Macau, Guangzhou is a vibrant gateway to both old and modern Chinese culture, still under the radar for many travelers.
Where to stay: Travelers to Guangzhou can indulge in sleek riverside luxury at Langham Place, located along the Pearl River. Spacious, contemporary rooms and suites feature panoramic views of the skyline or river, providing a stylish and sophisticated base to explore the city. Guests can unwind at the signature Chuan Spa, take a dip in the pool, or savor Cantonese delicacies at Ming Court, the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant.
Sal, Cape Verde
Sal, an island in Cape Verde, blends African, Portuguese, and Creole cultures. Located off the West African coast and just a four-hour flight from Portugal, the island enjoys year-round sunshine, pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, world-class windsurfing spots, and lively morna and funaná music. For nature lovers, Sal offers the surreal salt flats of Pedra de Lume, rugged volcanic landscapes, and tranquil fishing villages where time seems to stand still—perfect for those seeking new hobbies and peaceful outdoor escapes.
Where to stay: ROBINSON Cabo Verde resort in Santa Maria is a beachfront resort on Sal Island, set along 8-kilometer of white sand. The resort offers two pools, a wellness area, yoga, windsurfing, and beach volleyball. Guests can enjoy three restaurants and bars serving local and international dishes. With direct beach access, spa treatments, and a relaxed vibe, it’s perfect for mixing adventure with relaxation.
Manaus, Brazil
Manaus, one of the most remote major cities in the world, is set deep in the Brazilian Amazon rainforest and serves as a perfect starting point for exploring the region’s natural wonders. Visitors can cruise the Negro River with a guide to witness the natural spectacle of the ‘Meeting of Waters,’ where the dark Rio Negro and sandy Solimões rivers flow side by side without mixing, or enjoy unforgettable Amazon Experience: meet a native village and swim with porpoises. Manaus perfectly blends culture with the wild nature of the Amazon, standing at the edge of the world’s lungs.
Where to stay: For those wishing to stay closer to Manaus’ urban heart, Hotel Villa Amazônia in the city center blends modern comfort with historic charm, just steps from the iconic Teatro Amazonas. Local points of interest like Amazon Theatre and Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceicao are both reachable within 600 metres, offering guests a convenience to visit.
Munster, Germany
Located in western Germany, Münster, is a charming city ideal for cycling and leisurely exploration. Known for its cobblestone streets, striking Gothic architecture, and over 1,200 years of history, the city is also the birthplace of the Westphalian Peace Treaty. Münster blends cultural heritage with youthful energy, featuring landmarks like St. Paulus Cathedral and the arcaded walkways of Prinzipalmarkt. History lovers can explore numerous museums and sites while enjoying modern culinary and creative offerings.
Where to stay: Nestled in the heart of the city, Boardinghouse Münster is a modern, apartment-style accommodation ideal for travelers seeking flexibility and comfort, with fully equipped kitchens and easy access to Münster’s lively old town and museums. Münster Botanical Garden is just 1.8 km away, while Münster Osnabruck International Airport is 26 km from the property. Cycling enthusiasts can explore the surrounding area.
Kochi, India
A waterfront city influenced by centuries of international trade and cultural exchange, Kochi, serves as the perfect gateway to southern India’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. In Fort Kochi, visitors can wander through atmospheric lanes lined with colorful mansions, chic art cafés, and iconic Chinese fishing nets swaying against the Arabian Sea horizon. Historic warehouses are transformed into cutting-edge art spaces during the festival. Local cuisine is a highlight, from toddy shops serving spicy seafood to refined dishes like fish molee and coconut-rich thalis.
Where to stay: Forte Kochi, a 5-star heritage hotel on Princess Street, blending timeless elegance with modern comfort. Enjoy spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and a serene courtyard featuring an ancient Mikvah spring. Guests can savor Kerala cuisine, pan-Indian, European, and seafood dishes at the hotel’s restaurants.
Port Douglas, Australia
A charming coastal town, Port Douglas, reflects the beauty of Australia’s northeast coast and serves as the gateway to two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Great Barrier Reef and the ancient Daintree Rainforest. The town itself exudes coastal charm, with boutique shops and lively markets along Macrossan Street, plus cafes serving fresh local produce and seafood. Art enthusiasts can admire contemporary artworks at Ngarru Gallery, while other activities include snorkeling or diving among vibrant coral reefs by day and exploring rainforest trails or wildlife sanctuaries in the afternoon. By night, the town becomes a relaxing haven where ocean breezes, local flavors, and artistic flair come together under starry tropical skies.
Where to stay: Just moments from Four Mile Beach, Coconut Grove Port Douglas is a serene boutique stay in the heart of Port Douglas. The contemporary apartment-style accommodations offer open-plan living spaces, private terraces, and impressive views of Port Douglas and the Daintree Rainforest. The property features private plunge pools, tropical gardens, and BBQ facilities, making it ideal for relaxed days by the sea.
