Kerala Joins World's Top 26 Destinations For 2026: Report

If you're planning your 2026 travel adventures, The Rough Guide's latest report will make it easier to pick your next destination. The London-based travel company, known for its iconic guidebooks and tailor-made trips, has unveiled its list of the 26 best destinations to travel in 2026. The ranking is based on over 30,000 trip enquiries sent to their local experts, revealing where travellers are dreaming of going next.

From serene islands and cultural capitals to wildlife havens and culinary hotspots, these destinations promise experiences that are authentic, immersive, and unforgettable. Among fabulous destinations from around the world, Kerala from India proudly features at number 16, making it one of the most sought-after places for the coming year.

Also Read: Why Travelling In Kerala Feels Easier Than In Most Parts Of India

Here Are The 26 Best Destinations For 2024, As Per The Rough Guide:

1. Marrakech, Morocco

Marrakech is a major city, known for its vibrant culture. Stay in a traditional riad, savour street food, and learn to cook in a courtyard. Marrakech offers a sensory overload with its bustling souks, vibrant colours, and rich history. It is affordable and refreshingly different.

2. Crete, Greece

Authenticity, affordability, and flexibility make Crete a top pick. Hike scenic trails, swim in turquoise waters, explore ancient ruins, and indulge in hearty local cuisine - all without leaving the island.

3. Bali, Indonesia

Bali is hitting reset. With new rules to preserve its culture and environment, the island is focusing on meaningful travel experiences. Think lush rice terraces, spiritual retreats, and adventure with sustainability.

4. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo is the perfect base for exploring Japan. Tokyo's connectivity makes day trips easier than ever. Stay put, soak in the city's energy, and hop on trains to discover nearby gems.

5. Rome, Italy

The Eternal City is a feast for history buffs and food lovers alike. Classic dishes like carbonara and cacio e pepe are being reimagined in small, ingredient-driven kitchens. Pair that with millennia-old monuments, and you've got a timeless destination.

6. Istanbul, Turkey

A city straddling two continents, Istanbul is a cultural kaleidoscope. From Roman cisterns to whirling dervishes, and bustling bazaars to serene mosques, the city offers endless layers to explore.

7. Sicily, Italy

Mount Etna towers over a land rich in history and flavour. Greek temples, Norman cathedrals, and Arab-influenced dishes make Sicily a melting pot of cultures and cuisines.

8. Lisbon, Portugal

Steep hills, tiled façades, and soulful fado music - Lisbon charms with its laid-back vibe. Affordable meals and spontaneous live music make it a favourite for slow travellers.

9. Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi moves at a gentler pace than Ho Chi Minh City. Sip egg coffee, wander the Old Quarter, and join locals for tai chi by Hoan Kiem Lake at sunrise.

10. Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is evolving. New metro lines, creative districts, and green corridors are reshaping the city while preserving its vibrant street life and culinary scene.

11. Paris, France

Beyond the Eiffel Tower and Louvre, Paris shines in its everyday rhythms - fresh baguettes, long lunches, and neighbourhood strolls. For 2026, travellers are seeking the city's quieter charms.

12. Tenerife, Spain

Tenerife is an island of contrasts - snow-capped Mount Teide, lush pine forests, and sunny beaches. Whether you hike lava fields or ride the cable car, Tenerife packs adventure into every corner.

13. Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Amalfi Coast is a sun-soaked stretch of southern Italy where mountains plunge into the sea. Lemon groves, cliffside villages, and seafood feasts make it a dream destination for 2026.

14. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro is where dramatic landscapes meet vibrant culture. From Christ the Redeemer to rainforest hikes and Ipanema's golden sands, Rio offers a city break like no other.

15. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is a city best explored on foot. Stroll across the Danube from Buda's quiet hills to Pest's lively cafes and bars. Budapest blends history with a creative buzz.

^{Photo Credit: Pexels}

16. Kerala, India

Wake up on a rice barge in misty backwaters and end the day with a cup of chai in tea-clad hills. Kerala's slow pace, rich traditions, and warm hospitality make it perfect for relaxed, immersive travel.

17. Dalmatian Coast & Dubrovnik, Croatia

Walk medieval walls in Dubrovnik, then ferry-hop along the Adriatic. Dalmatia offers a mix of history, beaches, and vineyard stops for a truly scenic escape.

18. Kruger National Park, South Africa

Kruger National Park is one of the best places for a real safari. Self-drive routes, walking trails, and bushveld camps make Kruger ideal for wildlife lovers seeking flexibility.

19. Yucatán, Mexico

Beyond the resorts, Yucatán offers a glimpse into living Maya culture and world-class regional cuisine. Explore cenotes, ruins, and vibrant local markets.

20. Seville, Spain

Seville gives you a place to experience Spanish life at a gentler pace. Gothic cathedrals, tiled courtyards, and flamenco rhythms make Seville a cultural gem.

21. Namibia

Vast, ancient landscapes that make you feel small in the best way. Namibia's deserts and wildlife are drawing more travellers seeking solitude and raw beauty.

22. The Highlands, Scotland

Remote yet accessible, the Highlands promise sweeping vistas and quiet roads. It is the perfect destination for those craving nature and tranquillity.

23. Provence, France

Lavender fields, olive groves, and rose - Provence is the ultimate slow travel destination. Add Roman ruins and Van Gogh's haunts for extra charm.

24. Pantanal, Brazil

Wildlife lovers rejoice. Unlike the dense Amazon, Pantanal's open landscapes make spotting jaguars, capybaras, and exotic birds almost effortless.

25. Chiang Mai, Thailand

This is a cultural haven with centuries-old temples, shady lanes, and sizzling street food. Chiang Mai pairs depth with a relaxed rhythm.

26. Palawan, Philippines

Palawan is the Philippines' last ecological frontier. Coral reefs, limestone cliffs, and quiet coves make Palawan a paradise for nature seekers.