From one side of the globe to the next, the world is brimming with spectacular vacation destinations. Imagine settings where the Northern Lights dance overhead and ancient countries filled with timeless architecture and deep cultural traditions. You can connect with nature in deep fjords and colorful forests or wander through temples where time stands still.
With so many options, it can feel impossible to choose your next vacation, but we make it easy by putting expertly planned itineraries in top locations just a few clicks away. Let wanderlust lead to spectacular journeys when you choose from one of these trending destinations in Europe and beyond for 2026.
Top Places to Visit in Europe in 2026
The European continent is filled with intrigue, from the beautiful and Viking-lore-filled countries of Scandinavia to the towering Swiss Alps and the wine-soaked hills of southern Europe. Each region can feel like a world of its own, and traveling from one area to the next opens your eyes to many different cultures, cuisines and experiences. You could get a taste of multiple countries on a tour like Highlights of the Mediterranean, which explores Spain, France and Italy, or embark on a river cruise along one of the country's scenic waterways. For a more specialized journey, narrow your search to trending destinations like:
Italy
From top to heel and beyond the "Boot" has long charmed visitors with its delicious cuisine and mesmerizing landscapes. Exploring the Highlights of Italy can present the beauty of Tuscany and the colorful villages of the Cinque Terre, as well as great cities like Venice, Florence and Rome. You could also explore Southern Italy and Sicily, where layers of culture and history can be peeled back to reveal ancient Greek and Roman sites. Home to truly unique towns, like Alberoberro with its conical "trulli" homes, and sparkling coastlines, few places compare.
France
Romance comes standard in the beautiful country of France. With world-class wine regions and features so spectacular that famous artists once drew inspiration from them, this country has a bit of magic wherever you turn. You could experience the history of Normandy & the Loire Valley, seeing stately chateaux and quaint coastal locales, or drift along the Elegant Rhône from the culinary city of Lyon to the Burgundy wine region, Avignon and Arles, with each part of the country showcasing pure French ambiance.
Spain & Portugal
Colorful cities and flavorful cuisine welcome you to the Iberian Peninsula, home to Spain and Portugal and one of our top vacation destinations for 2026. While its two countries may be distinct in their cultural nuances, they are connected by the Douro River. Experience the Highlights of Spain & Portugal in bucket-list-topping cities from Barcelona to Madrid, Granada, Seville and Lisbon, or join a Premium Golden Douro river cruise to sail through the undulations of the Douro Valley to visit beloved Portuguese destinations. Each itinerary is a masterclass in experiences, immersing you in culture however you explore.
Switzerland
Small in size, endless in scenery, Switzerland's wonders extend from its alpine peaks to its brilliant blue lakes. Tucked-away villages dot the landscape and trains open an array of sightseeing possibilities, presenting the Best of Switzerland By Rail. You could set out on a Grand Train Tour of Switzerland to experience its most famous lines, from the Bernina Express to the Jungfrau Railway, or get to know Essential Switzerland while riding the Glacier Express and visiting car-free Zermatt. For multiple perspectives on Europe, pair your Swiss rail vacation with a cruise on the Majestic Rhine, combining a journey on the Glacier Express or to the Top of Europe with a luxurious cruise from Basel to Cologne, Germany. By land, train, and water, there is no denying Switzerland's beauty.
Norway
Whether you crave a summer vacation or an expedition in a winter wonderland, Norway is a trending destination with year-round appeal. Its seaside cities tell a story of Viking heritage, while its backcountry is truly stunning, with dramatic fjords and plunging waterfalls. Visit in the summer to experience Ultimate Norway and the Arctic Circle at a time of year when the landscape is brimming with life, or under the winter sky, when the Northern Lights dance overhead. After all, Norway and the Lofoten Isles are some of the world's best places to see the Aurora Borealis.
*For a Northern Lights adventure closer to home, consider a trip to Alaska, another top viewing destination. Here, the Winter Nights bring plenty of chances to see the Aurora in unique ways, and the Aurora Winter Train connects the wild interior with quintessential winter experiences in Alaska's cities.
Trending Destinations Across the Globe
Put your passport to good use next year by taking your adventure even further! Our worldwide tours feature one-of-a-kind experiences that make each vacation one to treasure. Find yourself amongst the temples of India or Vietnam or in Australia's vast "Red Center." Ride railways through ever-changing terrain and tour cities where modern life mingles with centuries of history. With escorted tours on six continents, we can take you through Asia or across wide-spanning oceans to Australia and New Zealand. Your dream vacation awaits in countries like:
Australasia
Some of the world's most iconic sights and awe-inspiring natural scenes beckon in Australasia, a region comprised of Australia and New Zealand. These countries are vastly different in their scenery, cities and indigenous customs, yet have a wild undercurrent that makes them natural companions. Experience Ultimate Australia on an epic tour, sightseeing from coast to coast while exploring Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide in the south, Alice Springs and Uluru in the center, and Cairns in the north. Or, see the contrasts of the North and South Islands on a Grand Tour of New Zealand, a journey filled with railway experiences, Māori culture and hidden gems from Auckland to Queenstown. Australasia truly sets the backdrop for a trip of a lifetime.
Japan
A country of neon-bright cities and ancient villages, bullet trains and lantern-filled temples, Japan is as modern as it is historic and a fascinating addition to the list of top destinations for 2026. The Jewels of Japan range from natural features, like Mount Fuji and bamboo forests, to Miyajima's Great Torii Gate and Matsumoto's historic "Black Castle." You can explore the nation on a Grand Tour by bullet train, connecting enchanting locations on several islands effortlessly. Tradition and deep-rooted customs lead every excursion, wrapping you in the allures of the "Land of the Rising Sun."
India
Every vacation in India is a step back in time - a chance to experience living history that in some places dates back thousands of years. There are majestic temples and cities literally painted with color based on local customs. Spiced scents waft through the air in markets, and just outside the hustle and bustle, nature offers a peaceful retreat. See these contrasts while exploring India's Golden Triangle, where cities like Delhi, Agra and Jaipur sit at the cusp of the Himalayas and Ranthambore National Park. Whether you seek wildlife, lively cities or UNESCO-listed landmarks, India has it all.
Vietnam
Few countries present a feast for the senses such as those of Vietnam. This exotic country is filled with lush, natural scenes and ancient temples, and its tropical climate make it a haven for fresh produce and delicious cuisine. Traditions run deeply - as does history, which makes Vietnam a unique place to explore. See its cities, including Hoi An, Hue and Ho Chi Minh City, and UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay, where limestone cliffs meet an old-world way of life. A Grand Tour of Vietnam & Cambodia offers a captivating immersion into its many sides while also offering a taste Cambodia's historic cities and lost temples. See the Vietnam not shown in textbooks on an unforgettable adventure.
From the Mediterranean to the Mekong Delta, the world is filled with fascinating corners to explore. Next year is your chance! So book the vacation, take the trip and make 2026 a year you never forget.
