There have been many cities that are on everyone’s bucket list, such as Madrid, Paris, and Rome, and it is easy to understand why. However, 2026 is the year when the more common travel destinations are being replaced by areas that are not often visited. People want to visit areas that are not at the top of everyone’s list and instead want to go somewhere that is unique. Here are some of the emerging destinations that people are visiting or planning to visit over the next 12 months.
Tbilisi, Georgia
Looking for a spot where it combines Europe and Asia? Well, we have the place for you. A country that is incredibly beautiful and different from the usual tourist getaway. Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, sits between the Black Sea and the Caucasus Mountains, showcasing a stunning mixture of medieval charm with a splash of modern culture. You’ll find sulfur bathhouses alongside contemporary art galleries, cobblestone streets next to buzzing wine bars, and churches perched above neon-lit cafés.
Tbilisi is also renowned for its warmth of spirit and hospitality. The city’s legendary food and wine culture invites travellers to linger, with traditional dishes like khinkali and khachapuri paired with some of the world’s oldest winemaking traditions. Affordable, walkable, and full of personality, Tbilisi feels refreshingly different, making it an ideal destination for people looking to experience something truly unique and culturally rich.
Medellín, Colombia
If you haven’t managed to explore South America yet, then let this be the year where you jump into Latin culture. Colombia, specifically Medellín, is one of the best places to immerse yourself in that culture. It has a spring-like climate year round, so you can expect to see vibrant green hills when touring around on public transport. The best part about it all is that the city offers both beauty and brilliance.
It is a great spot for art lovers, and many tourists end up visiting the Plaza Botero. Visitors can enjoy the culinary scene and many adventurous day trips nearby. It is very affordable and has a welcoming culture, which makes it one of the best urban places to visit in the world.
Marseille, France
Paris may dominate travel wishlists year after year, but for those seeking a more laid-back French experience with sunshine and fewer crowds, Marseille is a compelling alternative. Set on the Mediterranean, the city offers a warmer climate and a slower pace, while still delivering rich culture, history, and unmistakable French character.
Marseille’s revitalised waterfront has become a major draw, anchored by a thriving food scene that blends North African flavours with classic Provençal cuisine. From fresh seafood to bustling markets, the city’s culinary identity reflects its multicultural roots and seafaring history.
Rugged yet beautiful, Marseille is unapologetically authentic. With the turquoise waters and dramatic limestone cliffs of Calanques National Park on its doorstep, it balances urban edge with natural beauty, making it one of the most relaxed and rewarding destinations on France’s southern coast.
Osaka, Japan
Often overshadowed by Tokyo’s futuristic buzz and Kyoto’s historic calm, Osaka offers a distinctly different side of Japan that feels more relaxed, more playful, and refreshingly authentic. While Tokyo and Kyoto continue to draw the largest crowds, Osaka remains easier to navigate and less overwhelming, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a balance between urban energy and local charm.
As a major host of international events, Osaka is in a constant state of evolution. Ongoing investment in transport, public spaces, and modern infrastructure has transformed the city into one of Japan’s most accessible and traveler-friendly destinations – an advantage that places it firmly in the spotlight for 2026 and beyond.
Food is at the heart of Osaka’s identity. Nicknamed “Japan’s Kitchen,” the city is famous for its street food culture, where dishes like takoyaki (Octopus Balls) and okonomiyaki (Savoury pancakes). When the sun goes down, Osaka truly comes alive. Its vibrant nightlife is fueled by friendly locals, buzzing entertainment districts, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to strike up conversations and feel at home. There’s an openness here that sets Osaka apart from other Japanese cities.
Japan is a country that rarely feels like a one-time visit, and Osaka embodies that pull. Many travellers return again and again, with some choosing to stay long-term or even make the move abroad.
Tirana, Albania
One of Europe’s most surprising capitals, this is a city that absolutely deserves a spot on your travel list this year. It may not yet be a household name, and that’s precisely its charm. The lack of mass tourism means you can experience the city at a slower, more authentic pace, without the crowds that dominate other European capitals.
The city itself is vibrant and expressive, blending layers of history in a way that feels both unexpected and harmonious. Ottoman-era architecture sits alongside stark communist monuments, softened by colourful street art and thoughtful modern design. This contrast gives the city a distinctive character: raw in places, refined in others, and constantly evolving.
Beyond its architecture, the city’s creative energy is palpable. From lively cafes and emerging art spaces to a growing food and nightlife scene, it’s a place that feels confident in its identity whilst still flying under the radar – making it all the more rewarding to explore now, before the rest of Europe catches on.
Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is one of those rare cities where dramatic natural beauty and urban life coexist effortlessly. Framed by iconic mountains and sweeping beaches, it has long been celebrated for its world-class food and wine scene, as well as its proximity to some of Africa’s most memorable safari experiences. In recent years, this appeal has been further strengthened by significant government investment in infrastructure, sustainability initiatives, and tourism experiences, helping to elevate the city from a beautiful destination to a well-rounded, future-focused one.
This city stands out for the sheer variety of experiences it offers within a single destination. You can surf or kiteboard along the Atlantic coastline in the morning, go hiking or paragliding from Table Mountain in the afternoon, and enjoy world-class food and wine by evening. The city’s generally sunny climate makes outdoor activities possible year-round, while its rich cultural and historical layers, from Robben Island to vibrant neighbourhoods like Bo-Kaap and Woodstock, add depth beyond the natural scenery. Whether you’re drawn by adventure, history, food, or simply great weather, Cape Town manages to bring it all together in one place.
Why You Should Consider These Destinations
These destinations stand out for their authenticity, accessibility, and strong sense of cultural identity. They haven’t been overrun by mass tourism which allows them to feel genuine rather than curated. Each offers what many travellers are truly searching for: memorable cuisine, creative energy, rich history, and strong value for money. If you find yourself uninspired by your next travel choice, consider trading familiar skylines and car parks for the more distinctive, character-filled places explored above. You may find they leave for a more lasting impression.
About the author: Toby Patrick is a freelance writer who loves to travel. His writing often focuses on uncovering hidden gems that every traveller should visit in their lifetime.
