Top travel destinations 2026 – the 7 must-visit holiday hotspots
Ancient palaces, crystal-clear seas and undiscovered budget beaches – our travel experts share the best travel destinations for 2026.
Ancient palaces, crystal-clear seas and undiscovered budget beaches – our travel experts share the best travel destinations for 2026.
If you’re looking for inspiration for your 2026 travels, look no further. The experts at Saga Holidays have revealed their pick of the seven top destinations to visit this year.
Whether you’re looking for an intrepid adventure in a far-off land or a quiet spot somewhere more familiar, our magnificent seven will have you reaching for your passport.
Best for: foodie experiences, ancient temples and cherry blossom.
Japan continues to be one of the most sought-after destinations, thanks to its temples, cuisine and epic experiences.
Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Hiroshima are the top spots, although Japan truly is a year-round destination, with excellent skiing in the north (Hokkaido), the beaches of the south (Okinawa) and the eclectic mix of ancient and futuristic culture in between.
Travel in spring to see the stunning cherry blossoms, autumn to see the changing leaves that bring vibrant hues of red, orange and yellow to Japan’s landscape, or winter to witness the snow monkeys bathing in hot springs and experience the Sapporo Snow Festival.
Take a tour of this incredible country with Saga. Our group tours have a knowledgeable tour manager and use local guides so you can gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture, cuisine, and history.
Best for: culture, wildlife and soul-searching.
Vibrant, diverse India offers travellers a rich tapestry of history, culture and natural beauty spots. In 2026, the country continues to open up, with improved infrastructure making exploring easier and more comfortable than ever before.
From bustling cities like Delhi and Mumbai to the calming backwaters of Kerala, there’s something for everyone here.
Culinary adventures, heritage tours, and spiritual experiences remain at the heart of India’s appeal, while festivals, wildlife safaris and wellness retreats ensure that visitors can enjoy both adventure and relaxation.
There are myriad ways to explore India. You can experience India's Golden Triangle – Jaipur, Agra, and Delhi – in one trip or combine a tour with neighbouring Bhutan or Nepal.
Best for: safaris, coastal drives and world-class wine.
A safari in South Africa is a true bucket-list dream – you can see the Big Five in Kruger National Park.
Saga favourites Steve and Viv from Race Across the World previously experienced a Saga safari. In their words it was “the trip of a lifetime”.
Saga offers holidays and safaris in South Africa, whether your priority is scenery, wildlife or superb wine.
Best for: undiscovered beaches, turquoise waters and budget prices.
Albania is fast becoming one of the most popular spots in Europe. It has all the beaches and byzantine culture we want from the continent, but at a great price. Some compare it to the Croatia of 20 years ago.
Top spots include the beaches and turquoise waters of Ksamil (which you can visit by ferry from Corfu); Berat, known as the 'City of a Thousand Windows' for its Ottoman and Albanian architecture; and the capital, Tirana.
As Albania rises in popularity, this is the perfect time to explore before the crowds arrive.
Saga has four departures throughout 2026 for the Balkans off the Beaten Track – Albania & North Macedonia Tour.
Best for: sustainable travel, wildlife conservation and adventure tourism.
Hitting two of the biggest travel trends for 2026 – sustainable luxury travel and adventure travel – Costa Rica is a hot pick for this year.
Want to see a sloth in the wild? Help release turtles on the beach? See toucans in the trees? This is the place to do it.
And the best time is December to April.
Saga's holidays to Costa Rica include independent and small group tours, and self-drive holidays.
Whether you’re hiking through its lush interior or ziplining through the tree canopy, it’s a place where outdoor adventures reign supreme.
Best for: architectural wonders in a country now open to visitors.
Uzbekistan played a key role in the Old Silk Road, celebrated on Saga Holidays’ Uzbekistan – Jewel of the Silk Road tour. The country is increasing in popularity thanks to more flights and easier visas – it’s very much open for tourists.
Visit and you’ll find architectural wonders, bustling markets, remnants of its Soviet life, and many delightful dishes to try.
Travellers here will normally join a tour to really understand the country, rather than through independent travel. It’s not quite set up for easy solo travel as yet.
Our 11-day Uzbekistan tour follow the Silk Road route, exploring the mosques, palaces, museums and madrasahs of these crossroad cities.
Best for: mouthwatering cuisine and new cultural offerings.
Italy continues to captivate travellers with its superb mix of history, culture and cuisine. From the iconic ruins of Rome to the Renaissance treasures of Florence and the romantic canals of Venice, experiences here are as exciting as ever. How about visiting Mantova (Mantua), Lucca or Ferrara for somewhere a little off the usual tourist route?
In 2026, many historic sites unveil restored sections and immersive exhibitions, while culinary tourism thrives with regional food festivals and Michelin-starred restaurants opening across the country. Sustainable travel initiatives and improved transport options make getting around easier and more responsible, too.
Whatever your preference Saga has got something for you with its Italian holidays. Travel the length of the country on a grand tour, hike the high paths of the stunning Dolomites or sample the best food and wine in Tuscany.
Saga offers escorted tours throughout Europe and as far afield as Canada, Australia and even Uzbekistan, plus hotel stays in popular European hotspots including Spain, Portugal and Greece.
Find your perfect holiday today.
Some Saga holidays include soothing or spiritual activities like joining a traditional tea ceremony in Japan, practising yoga in India or bathing in Iceland’s Blue Lagoon.
Whether your perfect beach holiday is just sun, sea and sand, or if you like a bit of sightseeing, shopping or snorkelling thrown in, one of these might be your ideal destination.
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