Where to Travel in 2026: 10 Must-Visit Trending Destinations Around the World
Experience unique travel before they hit mainstream popularity.
Singaporean travellers are broadening their horizons, seeking unique and must-visit destinations both within Asia and across the globe.
Based on Skyscanner’s 2026 Travel Trends report, here are ten destinations with the biggest year-on-year search surges – perfect for travellers chasing experiences before they hit mainstream popularity.
Top 10 trending travel destinations in 2026:
1. Guiyang, China
2. Phuc Quoc, Vietnam
3. Padang, Indonesia
4. Vienna, Austria
5. Broome, Australia
6. Almaty, Kazakhstan
7. Urumqi, China
8. Iloilo, Philippines
9. Harbin, China
10. Christchurch, New Zealand
1. Guiyang, China
Jiaxiu Tower, a landmark building in Guiyang City, Guizhou Province, China.
Dubbed a “Forest City”, Guiyang, China is surrounded by lush mountains and cascading waterfalls. Hike the trails at Qianling Park or take a 30-minute high-speed train to explore the dramatic waterfalls of Huangguoshu, one of Asia’s largest waterfall systems.
Don’t miss a stroll through the ancient Jiaxiu Pavilion in the city centre and sample local Miao and Dong ethnic cuisine. Convenient connections to Guangzhou and Chongqing make Guiyang an ideal stop on a wider China itinerary.
2. Phuc Quoc, Vietnam
Wide shot of Cable car ropeway to Hon Thom - Phu Quoc island, Vietnam
Phu Quoc, Vietnam is an idyllic island escape just a short flight from Singapore. Relax on pristine beaches like Bai Sao and Bai Kem, snorkel in the clear waters of An Thoi Archipelago, and explore Phu Quoc National Park’s rainforests.
Food lovers can indulge in the island’s world-famous fish sauce, fresh seafood, and local dishes at Dinh Cau Night Market.
3. Padang, Indonesia
The Great Mosque of West Sumatera, the biggest mosque in West Sumatera, with a unique design and architecture that inspired by traditional house of West Sumatran. Located in Padang City, Indonesia
Padang, the capital of West Sumatra, is a haven for food and nature lovers – and, yes, is also the birthplace of the famous Nasi Padang.
Wander the Dutch colonial buildings in the old quarter, watch fishing boats at Batang Arau Port, and hike volcanic landscapes at Mount Marapi. Don’t miss the fiery cuisine, such as rendang and sambal dishes, or venture to the scenic beaches along the Mentawai coast.
4. Vienna, Austria
A street in Vienna, Austria
Vienna exudes history, elegance, and culture. Explore opulent landmarks like Schönbrunn Palace and Belvedere Palace, stroll through the historic Innere Stadt, and soak in the city’s coffeehouse culture at historic eateries like Cafe Central. Music lovers can catch classical concerts at the Vienna State Opera, while art enthusiasts can visit Kunsthistorisches Museum and Albertina Museum.
5. Broome, Australia
A coastal cave in Broome, Western Australia.
Broome is a coastal gem in Western Australia’s Kimberley region.
Walk along Cable Beach at sunset, take a camel ride, or spot migrating humpback whales from Gantheaume Point. Learn about the town’s pearling history at the Broome Historical Museum and discover multicultural influences from Indonesia, Malaysia, China, and Europe. For adventure, explore the Dampier Peninsula and its pristine beaches, about a two hour drive north of Broome.
6. Almaty, Kazakhstan
A scenic view of the Big Almaty Lake with Tianshan Mountains in Kazakhstan near the city of Almaty.
Almaty combines urban sophistication with mountain scenery. Hike or ski in the nearby Medeu Skating Rink and Shymbulak Ski Resort, explore Big Almaty Lake, and stroll through Panfilov Park to admire Zenkov Cathedral – an engineering marvel and the second tallest wooden building in the world, constructed entirely without nails.
Don’t miss the Green Bazaar – Kazakhstan’s most famous market – for local produce and souvenirs, and be sure to sample Kazakh cuisine in the city’s growing cafe and restaurant scene.
7. Urumqi, China
Urumqi during sunset.
Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang province, sits along the historic Silk Road.
Visit the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, explore the Heavenly Lake (Tianchi) in the nearby Tian Shan mountains, and immerse yourself in Uyghur culture through food, music, and local markets. For history enthusiasts, the Xinjiang Regional Museum showcases Silk Road artifacts and regional heritage.
8. Iloilo, Philippines
A stunning aerial view of Balbagon Island in Islas de Gigantes, Carles, Iloilo, Philippines, showcasing its teardrop-shaped silhouette and pristine white sand beach encircling the island.
Iloilo boasts a blend of heritage, beaches, and festivals. Admire Spanish-era churches like Miagao Church, enjoy street food at La Paz Public Market, and unwind on nearby islands such as Guimaras, famed as the Philippines’ mango capital and home to some of the sweetest mangoes in the world.
Plan your trip in January around the famous Dinagyang Festival – an annual cultural and religious festival honouring the Santo Nino – or venture to Islas de Gigantes for pristine beaches, diving, and snorkeling adventures.
9. Harbin, China
Colourful ice sculptures decorate the night sky in Harbin, Heilongjiang, China.
Harbin is a winter wonderland renowned for the world’s largest ice and snow event, the Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival – held from late December to late February. Stroll along Central Street (Zhongyang Dajie) to admire Russian-influenced architecture, explore Saint Sophia Cathedral, and visit Sun Island Park for snow sculptures. During summer, the nearby Siberian Tiger Park offers wildlife encounters.
10. Christchurch, New Zealand
Cable car with Canterbury Museum in the background, Christchurch, New Zealand
Christchurch is a family-friendly city with a mix of natural beauty and vibrant culture. The city blends strong European cultural influences with a distinctive architectural identity in its city centre.
Visitors can stroll through the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, wander along the Ōtākaro/Avon River, and take punting trips for a peaceful city perspective. For outdoor adventures, the nearby Port Hills offer scenic hiking and mountain biking trails, while Akaroa and the Banks Peninsula provide opportunities for dolphin watching, sailing, and coastal exploration.
This article was first published on Her World.