From Winter Olympics To New Wildlife Parks: 10 Big Travel Experiences To Plan For In 2026

The year 2026 is shaping up to be a milestone for global travel, with major destinations unveiling new experiences, once-in-a-lifetime natural events, and landmark cultural moments. From northern Italy, preparing to host the most geographically dispersed Winter Olympics in history, to the Caribbean getting ready for the world's first sperm whale reserve, the next year is packed with reasons to start planning a trip. Cities are reinventing their heritage; countries are opening transformative hiking routes, and remote regions are taking bold steps in conservation and cultural preservation. Whether you're drawn to sport, wildlife, gastronomy, or immersive history, 2026 promises a diverse set of journeys that will reshape travel itineraries worldwide. Check out some top travel spots for 2026, as shared by National Geographic.

Here Are 10 Experience-Led Destinations To Visit In 2026:

1. Milan & The Dolomites, Italy: Winter Olympics Spotlight

All attention will turn to Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo in February and March 2026 as Italy hosts the Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games. Spread across 8,500 square miles of northern Italy - much of it in the dramatic Dolomites - this will be the most geographically dispersed Winter Games ever held. With ceremonies and competitions centred around the mountains, travellers can expect the Alpine region to shine on a global stage.

2. Quebec, Canada: A New First Nation-Led National Park

Northern Quebec welcomes Nibiischii Park, the province's newest and most pristine protected area and the first to be managed by a First Nation. Spanning more than 4,000 square miles of serene lake country in the Eeyou Istchee-James Bay region, the park safeguards the Albanel-Mistassini-and-Waconichi Lakes wildlife reserve. Accessed via Chibougamau, just a 90-minute flight from Montreal on Cree-owned Air Creebec, it offers travellers an immersive wilderness escape.

3. Dominica: World's First Sperm Whale Reserve

Dominica is on the verge of launching a global conservation first - the Dominica Sperm Whale Reserve, expected by early 2026. Encompassing nearly 800 square kilometres off the island's west coast, the protected area aims to safeguard approximately 200 sperm whales that reside in its waters year-round. Regulated opportunities for swimming with or observing these gentle giants will allow visitors to experience the ocean responsibly and sustainably.

4. Hull, Yorkshire, England: A Maritime Revival

Hull is preparing for a major tourism moment as a 53 million pounds regeneration project highlighting its seafaring past nears completion in 2026. New interpretive spaces will showcase 800 years of maritime heritage, including the Hull Maritime Museum, the North End Shipyard visitor centre, and two restored museum ships - the Arctic Corsair trawler and the Spurn lightship. By summer 2026, travellers will find a refreshed port city with relaxed charm and deep historical layers.

5. Khiva, Uzbekistan: A Silk Road Gem Steps Forward

Often overshadowed by Samarkand and Bukhara, Khiva is set to shine in 2026. A new high-speed rail line will cut travel time from Tashkent by almost half, making it easier to reach the city's beautifully preserved old town. Luxury rail travel is also arriving with the launch of the Samarkand Express by Italy's Arsenale. In October 2026, Khiva will welcome its first international five-star property, the Mercure Khiva, inspired by the city's traditional Mevaston architecture.

6. Vancouver, Canada: FIFA World Cup Fever

Football fans will flock to Vancouver in June and July 2026 as the city hosts seven FIFA World Cup matches at BC Place. With convenient entry requirements, good currency value, and new direct flights from Europe, the city stands among the cup's 16 host destinations. Those without tickets can join the celebrations at the FIFA Fan Festival in Hastings Park, complete with concerts, local food stalls, and live match screenings on a massive outdoor screen.

7. South Korea: A New Long-Distance Hiking Route

South Korea's love for the outdoors is inspiring a new wave of trekking tourism. In 2026, major portions of the Dongseo Trail - a 527-mile route inspired by Spain's Camino de Santiago - will open to hikers. When complete, it will span the country from coast to coast, but travellers can already explore many of its 55 scenic segments across mountains, national parks, and rural landscapes.

8. Basque Country, Spain: Solar Eclipse Destination

On 12 August 2026, a total solar eclipse will sweep across parts of northern Spain, drawing visitors to the Basque Country - one of the few regions in the path of totality. Bilbao and Vitoria-Gasteiz will be prime viewing locations, offering not only celestial drama but also the region's famed blend of cutting-edge architecture and exceptional cuisine.

9. Guimaraes, Portugal: Europe's Green Capital 2026

Steeped in medieval heritage yet increasingly future-focused, Guimaraes has been named the European Green Capital for 2026. The city is expanding cycling routes, enhancing green spaces, and lowering pollution as it aims for climate neutrality by 2030. Travellers can expect a forward-thinking European destination that balances sustainability with rich cultural roots.

10. Oulu, Finland: Sami Culture & Arctic Flavours

Situated 60 miles south of the Arctic Circle, Oulu offers a blend of coastal beauty, forest landscapes, and Indigenous heritage. Around 800 of its residents are Sami, and the city's Giellagas Institute works actively to preserve their language and traditions. From January to May 2026, the Oulu Art Museum will host Eanangiella - Voice of the Land, an exhibition exploring Sami art and soundscapes.

The city will also spotlight Arctic cuisine through the 2026 Arctic Food Lab programme, with seasonal delicacies - such as reindeer, salmon, berries, and mushrooms - featured in pop-ups and special tasting events throughout the year.