Published on
October 25, 2025
In the ever-evolving world of travel, Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2026 offers a carefully curated list of 25 must-visit destinations and 25 essential travel experiences, providing travelers with a roadmap for exploring the world’s most exciting, serene, and unique spots. Each year, Lonely Planet releases its Best in Travel guide, designed to inspire wanderlust and help travelers plan unforgettable journeys. For 2026, the list features destinations and activities that promise a combination of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, all handpicked by Lonely Planet’s experts.
Among the highlights of the 2026 edition are some surprising entries, such as Maine, known for its serene springtime hikes, the Willamette Wine Country in Oregon, and Finland, a Nordic gem that beckons with its ethereal Northern Lights and vibrant culture. Japan’s traditional ryokan inns are featured as the perfect escape into tranquility, while England’s Premier League football matches offer a thrilling experience for sports enthusiasts. Whether travelers seek an adrenaline rush, cultural enrichment, or peaceful retreats, the 2026 destinations cover every type of traveler, highlighting experiences that promise unforgettable memories.
Lonely Planet’s global influence continues to make waves across the travel industry, and with its new edition, it reaffirms its commitment to bringing forward the best that the world has to offer. With so many incredible places to discover, the Best in Travel 2026 guide promises to be a valuable resource for those planning their next adventure.
Top Destinations for 2026: The Best in Travel
Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2026 brings together an eclectic mix of destinations, ensuring that travelers of all interests and preferences will find something special. From the rugged coastlines of Maine to the mystical landscapes of Finland, this year’s list features a range of locations that provide opportunities for both adventure and relaxation.
1. Maine: A Hidden Gem of Tranquility and Natural Beauty
For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life, Maine offers an ideal getaway. Known for its picturesque coastline, charming towns, and stunning natural beauty, Maine is an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. The springtime hike through the state’s lush forests offers a serene experience, making it the perfect time to visit and witness the state in full bloom.
Best time to visit: Spring (for hiking and bloom season)
Top experiences: Coastal hikes, local cuisine, art galleries, and architecture
2. Willamette Wine Country: Oregon’s Best-Kept Secret
Nestled in the heart of Oregon, Willamette Wine Country has become a must-visit destination for wine lovers. Known for its accessible vineyards and charming small towns, this region offers a more relaxed wine-tasting experience, with fewer crowds than other renowned wine regions. For those seeking a slower pace and breathtaking views, Willamette Valley delivers the perfect combination of wine, food, and nature.
Best time to visit: Fall (for the harvest season)
Top experiences: Wine tasting, vineyard tours, charming small towns
3. Finland: A Nordic Wonderland Full of Magic
Finland may fly under the radar compared to some of its more famous Nordic neighbors, but this hidden gem deserves to be on every traveler’s radar. From the lively streets of Helsinki, where Baltic culture blends seamlessly with modern design, to the Arctic regions, where the Northern Lights illuminate the night sky, Finland is a destination for travelers seeking a mix of natural beauty and cultural richness. The Lapland region, home to reindeer and the chance to experience winter like never before, makes it an unforgettable destination for winter sports lovers and Northern Lights chasers.
Best time to visit: Winter (for the Northern Lights and Arctic experiences)
Top experiences: Northern Lights, reindeer sleigh rides, sauna culture, and Arctic wilderness
4. Japan’s Ryokan Inns: Tranquility and Tradition
For travelers seeking relaxation and immersion in Japanese culture, a stay in a ryokan—a traditional Japanese inn—offers a peaceful escape. Featuring stunning natural surroundings, exquisite gardens, and traditional hot springs, ryokan inns offer more than just accommodation—they provide an experience rooted in centuries-old traditions. Guests can unwind with kaiseki (multi-course meals) and spend time in tranquil gardens, offering a slower, more mindful pace of travel.
Best time to visit: Spring or Autumn (for cherry blossoms or vibrant autumn leaves)
Top experiences: Hot springs, multi-course meals, traditional tea ceremonies, and cultural immersion
5. England’s Premier League Football: The Ultimate Sporting Experience
For sports enthusiasts, there’s no greater pilgrimage than attending a Premier League football match in England. These matches are more than just games—they are an embodiment of the country’s passion for football, offering travelers a chance to connect with the local culture in a way that few other experiences can match. Whether at iconic stadiums like Old Trafford or Anfield, the Premier League provides an electric atmosphere that makes it one of the top sports experiences in the world.
Best time to visit: Throughout the football season (August to May)
Top experiences: Attending a Premier League match, experiencing the fan culture, exploring iconic stadiums
A Glimpse into the Future of Travel: Unique Experiences for 2026
In addition to the standout destinations, Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2026 guide features 25 essential travel experiences that promise to make any trip unforgettable. These experiences, curated by Lonely Planet’s team of travel experts, highlight activities and locations that offer a deeper connection to the places you visit.
6. Hiking Through Maine’s Tranquil Forests
Maine’s quiet forests are perfect for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. The springtime bloom adds an extra layer of tranquility, making it one of the best hiking destinations for nature enthusiasts.
7. Wine Tasting in Willamette Wine Country
Willamette Wine Country in Oregon is perfect for those who enjoy the finer things in life. The combination of incredible wines, picturesque vineyards, and charming towns creates an unforgettable experience.
8. Northern Lights in Finland
Experience the magic of the Northern Lights in Finland’s Arctic region, where the frosty landscapes create the perfect backdrop for this once-in-a-lifetime natural phenomenon.
9. Immersive Stay in Japan’s Ryokan Inns
A stay in a ryokan inn offers an immersive experience into traditional Japanese culture. Whether soaking in an onsen (hot spring) or enjoying a traditional kaiseki meal, this is the perfect way to experience Japan’s serene beauty.
10. Football Culture in England
For football fans, attending a Premier League match is an unparalleled experience. From the excitement of the game to the passion of the fans, it’s an experience that every sports lover should have on their bucket list.
Conclusion: Best in Travel 2026 – A Year of Unforgettable Adventures
Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2026 is an exciting compilation of the world’s top destinations and experiences for the coming year. Whether travelers are seeking the peaceful escape of Maine’s forests, the magic of the Northern Lights in Finland, or the excitement of Premier League football in England, these destinations promise experiences that will create lifelong memories. The guide also shines a spotlight on lesser-known gems, ensuring that every traveler can find something new and inspiring in 2026.
This list of 25 destinations and 25 experiences offers something for every type of traveler, making it the perfect resource for anyone planning their next big adventure. From cultural immersion to natural wonders, the world is waiting to be explored. As Lonely Planet continues to lead the way in global travel expertise, Best in Travel 2026 is set to inspire a new generation of travelers to discover the world in ways they never imagined.
