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Top places to go in 2026

From centuries old cities to white sand beaches and mountain treks—this is where to go in 2026.

Allegra Pusateri
A cobblestone street is lined with green plants and yellow buildings.

Bari, Italy. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

Where to go in the year ahead, that’s the question on our minds these days. And we at United have some suggestions. Places all over the world that you may or may not have heard of before. Places no other U.S. airline flies to. Places perfect for budget or family travel. Places to see solo or ones that draw the more adventurous among us.

That and more is what you’ll find with these 24 destinations. 24 places to explore across six of the seven continents. Get ready to pack your bags because these are the top places to go in 2026.

Top destinations only United offers nonstop flights to

United will launch nonstop flights to these destinations from New York/Newark in 2026.

Split, Croatia

Turquoise waters lap against a palm tree lined promenade.
Riva is a waterfront promenade in Split. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

The gateway to the Dalmatian Coast, Split, Croatia, is an effortless blend of ancient history and modern life. More than one Roman emperor spent time in Split, but it was Diocletian who built his retirement home here, Diocletian’s Palace, in 305 A.D. This stone fortress is one of the many ancient ruins waiting to be explored in this coastal city.

Ancient Roman history is captivating, but it’s not Split’s only draw. Pebble beaches, like Kasjuni or Bene, serve as the perfect backdrop to relax amid the lapping turquoise waters. Just beyond the shore are the striking Croatian Islands dotting the coast, including Hvar, famous for its nightlife and celebrity sightings, and Šolta, home to untouched natural beauty.

When to go: Tourists surge between June and August when the strong sun and summer heat are ideal for swimming and island hopping. Alternatively, in September and October the sea will still be warm, but accommodations are usually cheaper.

Bari, Italy

A cobblestone street is lined with green plants and yellow buildings.
Bari’s old town is called Bari Vecchia. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

Located on the heel of Italy’s boot, Bari, Italy, is a millennia-old port city, where medieval castles (like Swabian Castle) and churches look out to the sea. But much of the old Roman city is buried beneath modern Bari. Archaeologists are still making new discoveries and often run tours through Bari’s excavation sites to reveal its hidden histories.

It’s easy to get lost in the maze of narrow streets and salt-stained buildings in Bari’s Old Town just by following your nose. On Strada delle Orechiette, skilled pasta makers shape the street’s namesake noodle right before your eyes. Or stumble across culinary havens like N’dèrr’a la lanze, an open-air market, where stalls sell street food and overflow with fresh seafood. You are on the coast, after all.

When to go: Bari is most popular in the summer months, where you’ll likely run into many Italian families on holiday. To avoid crowds, visit in September or October.

Santiago de Compostela, Spain

A stone cathedral rises into the sky.
The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

Santiago de Compostela is well known as the final stop on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage trail, a network of ancient trails through France, Portugal and England. The journey ends at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, home to the tomb of St. James, one of Jesus Christ’s apostles. This striking display of 9th-century architecture is just the beginning of the historical sites hidden throughout the Northwest region of Spain. Monasteries, grand homes and ornate parks are all here. But they aren’t the only things worth exploring.

In Santiago’s Old Town, Zona Vella, it’s common for bars to serve free tapas with each beer, cocktail or glass of wine. Or escape to Galicia’s countryside, where surprises hide amid the brush, like the O Toxa waterfall.

When to go: While the most popular time of year to go to Santiago is the summer, it is rather hot. April, May, September and October could be a better option for you.

Top international destinations

Lagos, Nigeria

A cityscape sprawls to the water’s edge.
Lagos has the tallest skyline in Nigeria. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

Lagos is a city of sights, drawing you in with its art, fashion, architecture and landscapes. Much of this city’s artistry is easy to find: the 526-foot-tall NECOM House that serves as a telecommunications tower and lighthouse; the vibrant color-washed markets selling fabrics (like Balogun Market) and local crafts (like the Lekki Market); the intoxicating aroma of spiced foods like jollof rice (rice simmered in spicy tomatoes), suya (grilled meat skewers) and swallow (soft dough made from starchy vegetables dipped in stew); the rhythmic bass of Afrobeats wafting out of clubs and theaters like New Afrika Shrine.

But then there’s the city’s quieter pockets, the hidden, gentler side of Lagos. It’s one of the few places in the world where beaches like Landmark Beach are just steps away from the bustling city center. Where canopied walkways stretch across nature parks and museums like the Nike Art Centre feature intimate collections exploring Nigerian culture and tradition.

When to go: We recommend visiting Lagos during the dry season from November to March, which is also peak tourist season. For an off-season, less-crowded trip, try May, June or September.

Delhi, India

A woman stands facing stone steps surrounded by stone archways.
The Agrasen ki Baoli in Delhi. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

Delhi is the world’s second most populous city, and also one of its oldest. From military history at The Red Fort and street art in Lodhi Colony to the Shree Hanuman Ji Temple, a temple dedicated to the Hindu god Hanuman, and shopping along Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Delhi is the epitome of vibrancy, a place that engages every sense.

But if you find yourself wishing for a break from the city, consider hopping on a quick flight to Arunachal Pradesh, India’s mountainous northeast state. This up-and-coming destination is a refreshing step into nature and tranquility. Namdapha National Park is a tropical rainforest and Tiger Reserve, where visitors can trek along the Eastern Himalayas, discover rare flora or bird watch.

When to go: If you plan to go to Dong Valley, March and April are the best months.

Adelaide, Australia

The River Torrens flows past the Adelaide skyline.
The city of Adelaide is surrounded by parklands. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

Just beyond the coastal city of Adelaide sprawls South Australia’s robust wine country, home to over half of the country’s vineyards. The Barossa Valley, most known for their Shiraz, is one of Australia’s oldest wine regions, with over 750 grape growers that produce world-class wines every year.

For the more adventurous, Kangaroo Island, just off the coast, brims with Australian wildlife, like koalas, platypus, sea lions, seals and, of course, kangaroos, while the city of Adelaide itself is somewhat of an urban jungle. Botanic gardens, traditional smoke ceremonies, and markets turn the 20-minute city into not only an accessible destination but a cultural hub on par with its East Coast counterparts.

When to go: United will start offering flights to Adelaide on December 11, 2025, just in time for the start of Australia’s summer, which lasts through February. For a bit cooler temperatures, come in March.

Kralendijk, Bonaire

A palm tree stands on a beach surrounded by blue ocean waters.
The Pink Beach in Bonaire comes from crushed pink shells. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

A Dutch Caribbean island 50 miles off the coast of Venezuela and positioned outside of the hurricane belt, Bonaire is often overshadowed by it’s more glamorous island neighbors but is a sanctuary in its own right. From pink flamingos to pink lakes to world class cuisine, if you’re headed to the Caribbean in 2026 Bonaire is the place to be.

For an one-of-a-kind experience you will not find anywhere else in the world, simply get in the water. Whether swimming, snorkeling or diving, Bonaire is the only country that is completely surrounded by a protected marine park and is known as the world’s first blue destination because of their commitment to sustainable use of ocean resources. Hilma Hooker and 1000 Steps Beach are particularly well-renowned diving locations. Or you can set your sites on land at Cadushy Distillery, sampling small batch cactus vodka, before heading to Washington Slagbaai National Park to hike to the tallest point on the island, Brandaris. But you can’t leave Bonaire without seeing the flamingos, it’s kind of a thing there, at Gotomeer or Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary.

When to go: If you want to see flamingos, go between January and June. To avoid the crowds, visit between May and October.

San Salvador, El Salvador

A white domed building stands on a square.
The Metropolitan Cathedral in San Salvador was constructed in 1999. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

El Salvador sits comfortably in western Central America, despite a rather impressive line of both dormant and active volcanoes cutting through the country’s center. Just beyond the cosmopolitan capital of San Salvador, you can see volcanic peaks rise on the horizon. To witness the city’s Neoclassical and Gothic architecture, take a stroll around the stone-carved walls of the National Palace and the Metropolitan Cathedral of San Salvador or marvel at the golden walls of the National Theater. For a peaceful moment, lush, green parks, like El Imposible, lay just outside the city’s historic center.

One of the largest draws to El Salvador is the Ruta de Las Flores, or the flower route. This scenic road trip connects several small mountain towns, home to remarkable coffee plantations, artisan goods and, yes, flowers. The route begins in Sonsonate, about an hour west of San Salvador, and ends in Ahuachapán. Rent a car and hit the road.

When to go: El Salvador is best discovered during its dry season from November to April. However, if you’re visiting for the Ruta de Las Flores, go in May when the flora is in full bloom.

Venice, Italy

A blue canal flows between orange buildings, with a bridge spanning across.
Venice is built on 118 islands and is connected by over 400 bridges. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

Venice is one of the most popular cities in the world. Built atop the sea, with a complex network of canals, where boats take tourists almost everywhere, Venice is a fragile yet beautiful destination. For a glimpse at its history, spend time on the Piazza San Marco, the city’s main square, where the glittering mosaics of Saint Mark’s Basilica and the ornate rooms of Museo Correr whisper the city’s secrets. However, truthfully, Venice’s architecture is best viewed from the water, so set sail on the Grand Canal before spending time at the Rialto Market on the west side of the Rialto Bridge. The star in any Italian city is the food, but unlike Rome and Florence, Venice is not pasta-based. Here, polenta (cornmeal) is the base of many dishes.

But two to three hours outside of Venice is where true magic resides. The Dolomites range tears into the sky along the Italian-Austrian border, an area which has recently been in the public eye as the location of the 2026 winter games. But these peaks have long been a bucket list destination for any outdoor enthusiast. Think quiet morning strolls through meadows, mountain hikes past mesmerizing views, deep reflective pool lakes, stays in mountain rifugis (huts or lodges), pristine spas and, of course, premier skiing.

When to go: To avoid crowds and thick humidity, visit in May and September. February is also a great option if you want to go to Carnival. If you plan to include the Dolomites on your trip, September is best for hiking, while ski season runs from December through March.

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Two gray bodied birds with blue feet stand next to each other.
Half the world’s blue-footed boobies live in the Galápagos Islands. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

A quick flight from Quito, the Galápagos Islands in Ecuador were made internationally famous in Charles Darwin’s book “On the Origin of Species,” originally published in 1859. Today, the Galápagos still dazzles with its pristine ecosystems. Whether spotting rare birds like blue-footed boobies, snorkeling with penguins or seeing giant tortoises in their natural habitat, these islands hold the true meaning of biodiversity, where exploration is endless.

Isabela Island is home to the Sierra Negra Volcano, where lush greenery grown in volcanic soil creates stunning surroundings as you hike to the summit or explore old lava tunnels. On Santa Cruz Island, relax amid the white sands of Tortuga Bay Beach or explore Fernandina Island by kayak.

When to go: From December to May, warm weather offers optimal conditions to witness baby animals and lush landscapes, while June to November is the prime time for whale watching or to see penguins.

Top family-friendly destinations

Orlando, Florida

A hot air balloon flies over a clear blue sky.
Orlando is filled with family-friendly adventure. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

Orlando is a kid’s paradise, given its proximity to many major theme parks. These jumbo-sized playgrounds dot the city’s surrounding area, and while they might be the initial draw for families, this central Floridian city blooms with many other unforgettable experiences and entertainment that are fun for the whole family. So we suggest you turn that theme park vacation into one exploring everything this city has to offer.

Now what family-friendly activities you should plan depends on you, the age of your kids and everyone’s interests. For anyone whose kids are fearless, consider hang gliding at Wallaby Ranch (they take kids as young as three), take a hot air balloon ride, go to a trapeze class or go ziplining through Gatorland. For the arcade kid Andretti Indoor Karting and Games has go-karts, laser tag and arcade games. For the kids more interested in the arts, The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show will have them laughing the night away and the Crayola Experience lets you make your own coloring book pages and crayons.

When to go: For warm, but not too warm, weather, aim to go during school breaks between March and May or September through November.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Steam rises off of ice blue waters dotted with people.
The Blue Lagoon is located in a lava field on the Reykjanes Peninsula. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

Maybe you didn’t expect to see an international destination among the top family destinations. But Reykjavik’s effortless beauty enchants every age, a place where kids remain in constant awe and parents can actually enjoy themselves too. And Iceland itself is very welcoming to children in all public spaces, it’s part of the culture, making it a great destination for families with kids of any age.

The Hallgrímskirkja Church Tower is located at the end of the colorful Rainbow Street, with a plaza out front where the kids can burn off some energy before heading inside. Rather than visiting one of Iceland’s 130 volcanoes, the Lava Show is the only place in the world where real molten lava flows right before your eyes in a controlled, indoor environment. After the show, take home your very own piece of cooled lava. While the city is impressive, Iceland is a place of breathtaking natural beauty. The Nautholsvik Geothermal Beach is a community center with a man-made beach, a geothermally heated kiddie pool and a larger sheltered pool at the ocean’s edge. The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa, considered one of the wonders of the world. Its minerally enriched, healing waters are a great place to relax, plus kids aged 2-13 can enter for free.

When to go: For warm weather and optimal daylight, visit anytime between June and August. Hoping to witness the Northern Lights? September through March is your chance.

Williamsburg, Virginia

A red brick home stands behind a horse and buggy.
The Peyton Randolph House was built in the early 1700s. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

Williamsburg perfectly blends history with family adventure. This Virginia city is most known for its living history museum, Colonial Williamsburg. Come experience what 18th-century life was like in what was once the cultural, political and educational epicenter of the American colonies. This is a fascinating, immersive look into our country’s beginnings. For further immersion, consider Historic Jamestown. It’s a current archaeological site that continues to uncover pieces of our past, and kids can even interact with recreations of some of those artifacts and findings.

After a walk through the past, experience a thrilling present at Busch Gardens, a theme park filled with rides, animal experiences and treats. It’s basically heaven. If roller coasters aren’t your family’s speed, try Water Country, Virgina’s largest water park.

When to go: For warm weather and fewer crowds, consider going between April and June or September through November.