Tripadvisor®, the world’s largest travel guidance platform, has unveiled its first Travelers’ Choice® Awards category for 2026: Best of the Best Destinations. This category celebrates the places that travelers around the globe cherish most.
Every year, Tripadvisor analyzes millions of reviews and ratings from its worldwide community, offering trusted recommendations that aid in planning unforgettable journeys and discovering remarkable experiences. The Travelers’ Choice Awards: Best of the Best Destinations encompass various categories, including Top Destinations, Trending Destinations, Culture Destinations, Food Destinations, Honeymoon Destinations, and Solo Travel Destinations.
“Tripadvisor is the world’s most trusted travel platform, built on the experiences of millions of global travelers,” stated Laurel Greatrix, Chief Communications Officer, Tripadvisor Group. “From iconic cities like Bangkok and London to cultural hubs, serene beach escapes, and romantic getaways across Madeira, Singapore, Bali, and beyond, the Best of the Best Destinations showcase the places that make every journey unforgettable—and inspire travelers to explore the world with confidence.”
Bali Named World’s Top Destination, While New York City Leads the U.S. for Another Year
For 2026, Bali, Indonesia, has been named the No. 1 Top Destination in the World, renowned for its lush landscapes and white sand beaches. Travelers can experience breathtaking views and unparalleled hospitality through ventures like the Mount Batur Jeep Adventure or snorkeling with manta rays on a Nusa Penida day trip.
Joining Bali among the world’s top destinations are New York City, London, Dubai, Paris, Rome, and Bangkok, illustrating travelers’ enduring attraction to iconic cities paired with immersive cultural experiences.
In the United States, New York City retains its top position, further establishing its status as a global center for food, culture, entertainment, and arts. Other leading U.S. destinations include Las Vegas, Nashville, New Orleans, Chicago, and Washington, D.C., along with beloved coastal and leisure spots such as O’ahu, Key West, Charleston, and Boston.
Top Destinations – World
- Bali, Indonesia
- London, U.K.
- Dubai, U.A.E
- Hanoi, Vietnam
- Paris, France
- Rome, Italy
- Marrakech, Morocco
- Bangkok, Thailand
- Crete, Croatia
- New York City, U.S.
Top Destinations – U.S.
- New York City, NY
- Las Vegas, NV
- Oahu, HI
- Nashville, TN
- New Orleans, LA
- Chicago, IL
- Charleston, SC
- Key West, FL
- Washington DC
- Boston, MA
Trending for 2026
Madeira, Portugal, is identified as the No. 1 Trending Destination in the World for 2026, captivating travelers with its dramatic natural beauty and tranquil ambiance. This lesser-known island offers a perfect family-friendly getaway with adventure and leisure activities, such as a Canyoning tour in Madeira Island.
Following closely at No. 2, Tbilisi, Georgia, continues to rise as a must-visit destination with vibrant energy, striking a balance between cobblestoned streets, colorful architecture, and a burgeoning arts scene.
Completing the top 10 are destinations across Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and Asia, including Quy Nhon, Puerto Escondido, Milan, Glasgow, Abu Dhabi, Recife, and San Carlos de Bariloche.
Trending Destinations – World
- Madeira, Portugal
- Tbilisi, Georgia
- Chicago, U.S.
- Quy Nhon, Vietnam
- Puerto Escondido, Mexico
- Milan, Italy
- Glasgow, U.K.
- Abu Dhabi, U.A.E.
- Recife, Brazil
- San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina
Solo Travel Destinations
For the second year, Tripadvisor highlights the top Solo Travel Destinations, focusing on places ideal for independent explorers. Dublin, Ireland, secures the top spot, offering rich historical architecture, diverse culinary options, and a friendly atmosphere. The city’s walkability allows easy exploration of landmarks like St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Dublin Castle.
Solo Travel Destinations – World
- Dublin, Ireland
- Berlin, Germany
- London, U.K.
- Santiago, Chile
- Edinburgh, U.K.
- New York City, U.S.
- Hanoi, Vietnam
- Madrid, Spain
- Bali, Indonesia
- Cape Town Central, South Africa
Best of the Rest
For 2026, London ascends from last year’s No. 2 ranking to become the No. 1 Food Destination in the World, renowned for its diverse culinary offerings, from Michelin-starred establishments to bustling street food markets. Dubai enters the list at No. 2, celebrated for its blend of traditional Middle Eastern and innovative international cuisines.
Food Destinations – World
- London, U.K.
- Dubai, U.A.E.
- Rome, Italy
- Hong Kong, China
- Paris, France
- Majorca, Spain
- Doha, Qatar
- Crete, Greece
- Bangkok, Thailand
- Marrakech, Morocco
Food Destinations – U.S.
- New York City, NY
- Las Vegas, NV
- Maui, HI
- Orlando, FL
- Miami, FL
- Chicago, IL
- Oahu, HI
- Boston, MA
- San Francisco, CA
- Nashville, TN
Culture Destinations
Tripadvisor’s 2026 Culture Destinations spotlight the world’s most inspiring places for arts, history, and local traditions. Singapore makes its debut at No. 1, surpassing last year’s leader, Bali. London, U.K., moves up to No. 2, celebrated for its iconic landmarks, museums, and vibrant arts scene. Krakow, Poland, enters the top three, known for its historic streets and dynamic creative energy.
Culture Destinations – World
- Singapore
- London, U.K.
- Krakow, Poland
- Paris, France
- Rome, Italy
- Edinburgh, U.K.
- Hanoi, Vietnam
- Budapest, Hungary
- Kyoto, Japan
- Bali, Indonesia
Honeymoon Destinations
For couples celebrating their most special milestones, Tripadvisor’s Honeymoon Destinations feature the world’s most romantic retreats. From tropical islands and serene beaches to charming towns and scenic hideaways, these destinations offer unforgettable experiences and intimate moments perfect for celebrating love.
Honeymoon Destinations – World
- Bali, Indonesia
- Mauritius
- Maldives
- St. Lucia
- Galle, Sri Lanka
- Hue, Vietnam
- Napa, U.S.
- Positano, Italy
- Watamu, Kenya
- Antigua
Methodologies
The 2026 Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Destinations are determined based on the quality and quantity of reviews, specific to each award subcategory, for accommodations, restaurants, and activities from travelers globally on Tripadvisor between October 1, 2024, and September 30, 2025.
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