Top 10 Trending Destinations For 2026, According To American Express Travel

Where are travelers most excited to go in the year ahead? American Express Travel has unveiled its annual trending destinations list, highlighting must-visit destinations around the world. This year’s list features fresh new destinations and highlights that 89% of card members feel more excited to travel when they are going to a hotel or destination they’ve never visited.

Audrey Hendley, President of American Express Travel, tells me about this year’s selection, “Travelers are seeking hotels that reflect the destinations they’re exploring, with meaningful local touches, unique activities, and memorable culinary experiences.”

Travelers’ priorities are also changing, with 79% stating that unique itineraries or accommodations are important when booking a trip. 80% prefer properties that are hidden gems as opposed to well-known resorts. And finally, culinary experiences are a significant factor to consider when choosing a destination. 72% ranked food and social scene in their top three considerations, followed by entertainment & sports events. Family-friendly spaces and offerings are one of the most important hotel amenities for Millennial and Gen Z respondents.

Here are the best travel destinations and hotels for 2026, as selected by American Express cardholder bookings.

Indian Himalayas

With incredible views of towering peaks and vast, lush valleys, Snow-capped mountains, tranquil villages, and mystical monasteries, the Indian Himalayas offer both natural beauty and spiritual traditions to explore.

Where to Stay: The Westin Resort and Spa Himalayas is located in the Himalayan foothills near Rishikesh. Each of the 141 guestrooms features a bathtub, a private balcony overlooking the valley. There is a Shankara Ayurveda Wellness Centre, exclusively available at the Heavenly Spa, as well as with four in-house restaurants and bars.

Killarney, Ireland

Filled with scenic landscapes, mirrored lakes, ancient woods, and mist-covered mountains, and a charming town center along the famous Ring of Kerry drive, Killarney offers the ultimate Irish experience.

Where to Stay: The Killarney Park Hotel is located on the edge of Killarney National Park. This family-owned hotel features 69 guest rooms and suites, described as offering old-world elegance that meets modern-day luxury. There are multiple dining options and a spa with an indoor pool.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas has long been a go-to destination for its vibrant atmosphere along the famed Strip, where iconic resorts are historical monuments to entertainment, offering everything from first-class dining to legendary shows and themed experiences. And, above all, elaborate casinos for endless nights of gaming.

Where to Stay: Wynn & Encore Resorts opened first in 2005, followed by its sister property, Encore, which opened in 2008. The massive casino resort features 2,716 guestrooms and suites at Wynn and another 2,034 at Encore.

Marrakech, Morocco

Marrakech is known as Morocco’s cultural capital, famed for its historic, labyrinthine souks within the Medina. From the vibrant Jemaa el-Fnaa to the quiet elegance of its historic palaces and hammams, it is a captivating mix of tradition and magic.

Where to Stay: Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech – Located just 10 minutes from the heart of the city and the historic Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the hotel offers 56 private villas, all with secluded walled gardens, pools, and Jacuzzis. Seven spectacular suites, each with its own rooftop plunge pool, provide panoramic vistas of the gardens and the snowcapped Atlas Mountains. There are numerous dining options and a world-class spa.

Marbella, Spain

From the sandy Mediterranean beaches to the Sierra Blanca Mountains, Marbella offers a blend of luxury and old-world Andalusian charm, complemented by world-class restaurants, high-end shopping, rich history, and vibrant culture.

Where to Stay: La Fonda Heritage Hotel is located on a historic square overlooking the Santo Cristo church and was previously a school. The three historic buildings that comprise La Fonda date back to the early 16th century and feature internal courtyards and gardens. With only 20 rooms, this intimate property also features the award-winning fine dining restaurant La Fonda.

Okinawa Islands, Japan

An archipelago in southern Japan, comprising 160 islands, it was once the heart of the ancient Ryukyu Kingdom. It is a sandy beach destination where you can discover thriving reefs for diving and explore cultural treasures.

Where to Stay: Rosewood Miyakojima is a new property that opened this year on an untouched peninsula on a tropical island located off the south coast of mainland Japan. With direct access to the beach, the resort has 55 guest rooms. The Daya villas look out over the cliffs; Mui villas sit in the mountains; Miji villas are on the tip of the peninsula by the sea; Uru villas are directly on the sand; and Isu villas are on the rocky beach. Three houses are the largest properties on the resort and are located on the cliffside. Four dining venues and a full Asaya spa enhance the property’s allure.

Panama City, Panama

From walking the cobblestone streets of Casco Viejo, filled with colonial architecture, to exploring the local art and rooftop bars, all set against the backdrop of the engineering wonder that is the Panama Canal. Yet, within minutes, you can escape to tropical beaches, wildlife-filled rainforests, and indigenous communities.

Where to Stay: Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo is located in the heart of Panama City’s historic district. The 159-room hotel, situated within a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts a full-service spa with a pool offering ocean views, as well as multiple dining venues.

Papagayo Peninsula, Costa Rica

Papagayo Peninsula is renowned for its luxury accommodations and amenities inside a 1,400-acre natural sanctuary. Enjoy a diverse array of wildlife, including howler monkeys, sloths, and toucans, and take part in activities ranging from snorkeling off its calm beaches to hiking over coastal bluffs.

Where to Stay: The Andaz Peninsula Papagayo is a newly renovated property featuring 131 rooms, 21 suites, and 25 brand-new villas. Positioned on a steep hillside, on three levels. There are three restaurants, two secluded beaches, two swimming pools, and a large ONDA Spa.

San Juan Mountains, Colorado

With more than a dozen soaring summits, the mountain ranges are filled with volcanic spires, deep valleys, and crystal-clear alpine lakes. This high-country destination is ideal for Both Summer and Winter activities, offering trails for skiing and historic mining towns for exploration.

Where to Stay: Dunton Hot Springs is a unique, romantic 1800s ghost town that can be rented exclusively or in one of their 13 log cabins. The property features a sauna, spa, and bathhouse with hot springs.

St. Julians, Malta

Malta’s famed seaside town of St. Julian’s combines a traditional fishing village with a modern, vibrant scene. Its sun-filled bays and rocky beaches line the waterfront promenade, which is filled with restaurants and lively bars. The colorful luzzo boats in Spinola Bay add to the scene, offering an unforgettable escape.

Where to Stay: The Phoenicia first opened its doors in 1947 and is situated in a unique location, adjacent to the ramparts of Valletta. The 132-room property also features a spa, the elegant Contessa restaurant, the BeefBar in the City, and the Palm Court Lounge.

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