People travel for countless reasons — to witness a once-in-a-lifetime moment, to see a familiar place with fresh eyes, or to uncover a destination beyond the headlines. Sometimes it’s a celebration, like a major sporting event, a cultural milestone, or a highly anticipated reopening. Other times, it’s quieter: a new trail to explore, a sunset to savour, or a city’s hidden corners to discover.
There’s never a “wrong” time to plan your next adventure, but a new year brings fresh inspiration. In 2026, the world is full of reasons to pack your bags. From the Winter Olympics in Italy to the FIFA World Cup across North America, global events will bring travelers together like never before. Tourism is also playing a vital role in protecting the Earth’s most fragile ecosystems, while once-remote destinations are becoming more accessible for curious explorers.
Matador Network’s 25 Unforgettable Places to Visit in 2026 highlights some of the most remarkable destinations to put on your travel list — each with a compelling reason to visit.
Socotra, Yemen
Closer to the Horn of Africa than Yemen itself, Socotra is a place like no other. Its alien landscapes, including umbrella-shaped dragon blood trees, ghost crabs, and endemic birds and reptiles, earned it UNESCO World Heritage status for biodiversity. Tourism is limited and carefully managed, with small-group access, local guides, and conservation-focused experiences. For travellers who plan ahead, Socotra is a rare chance to explore a largely untouched paradise where nature, not social media, is the star.
Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina
Patagonia’s crown jewel is facing a changing climate. Spanning nearly 3,000 square miles of southern Argentina, Los Glaciares protects a vast portion of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. Many glaciers are retreating, reshaping shorelines and trails — even the once-stable Perito Moreno Glacier. In response, park authorities have enhanced visitor infrastructure and guided access to protect this fragile environment. Innovative accommodations like OVO Patagonia, with cliffside rooms, allow travelers to experience the park in unique, low-impact ways.
Milan, Italy
Traditionally known as a global fashion capital, Milan will take center stage in 2026 as co-host of the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Ice hockey, figure skating, and speed skating competitions will draw sports fans from around the world, while the Olympic Torch Relay will light up the city. Milan is a perfect base for exploring Italy and Europe, with three international airports, high-speed rail links, and the relaunched Milan–Paris train route. Between events, visitors can enjoy world-class museums, legendary design culture, and an evolving hotel scene.
Great Barrier Reef, Australia
One of the world’s most iconic natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef is a must-visit destination for any traveller. Stretching over 2,300 kilometres along the Queensland coast, it’s the largest coral reef system on the planet and a vibrant underwater paradise. Whether you’re snorkelling among schools of colourful fish, diving alongside majestic manta rays, or taking in the reef from the deck of a scenic cruise, the experiences here are unforgettable.
Beyond its stunning beauty, the Great Barrier Reef is a hub of conservation and sustainable tourism, with many tours supporting local marine protection initiatives. Eco-friendly operators, guided snorkel tours, and reef-focused experiences ensure visitors can enjoy its wonder while helping to preserve it for generations to come. From remote islands to lively coastal towns, the Great Barrier Reef offers both adventure and relaxation, making it a perfect destination for families, solo travellers, and couples alike.
No matter your travel style — whether it’s chasing global events, exploring remote landscapes, or immersing yourself in natural wonders — 2026 is bursting with opportunities to discover the world. From the alien landscapes of Socotra and the icy grandeur of Patagonia’s glaciers, to the vibrant energy of Milan and the breathtaking beauty of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, there’s inspiration around every corner. And beyond these highlights, hidden gems like Newfoundland & Labrador, Basque Country, Taipei, Cambodia, Maui, Burgundy, and Guadalajara are waiting to be explored.
Full List:
- Newfoundland and Labrador
- Liepāja
- Chihuahua
- Socotra
- Isle of Arran
- Bajdah Wildlife Reserve
- Mauritius
- Māui
- Svalbard
- Providence
- Taipei
- Basque Country
- Los Glaciares National Park
- Chengdu
- Asheville
- Nuremberg
- Nyungwe National Park
- Great Barrier Reef
- Cambodia
- Burgundy
- Salt Lake City
- Milan
- Lima
- Little Ethiopia, Los Angeles
- Guadalajara
Start planning your next adventure with Phil Hoffmann Travel today and let our expert team turn your 2026 travel dreams into reality.
This article was inspired by Matador Network’s “25 Unforgettable Places to Visit in 2026" by Nickolaus Hines, Editorial Content Director
