Why These Destinations Made Our 2026 Travel List
The new year is almost here, and with it comes awe-inspiring travel inspiration buzzing through our team’s Slack. From volcanic landscapes outside Reykjavik to temple-filled streets in Tokyo, our team is already planning their 2026 bucket list adventures. These aren’t just beautiful destinations – they’re the places where we reconnect with old friends over dinner, create slow moments with family, and remind ourselves why we travel in the first place. Whether you’re dreaming of multi-generational trips, solo adventures, or romantic escapes, here are the destinations that the Flytographer team is dreaming of for 2026 (and why these are the best places to travel this coming year). ✈️
Flytographer easily connects people with trusted photographers for fun photo shoots and has captured over six million memories worldwide. The magic of Flytographer is both the experience and the photos. Explore your dream destination with a fun, talented photographer and get wall-worthy photos to relive your trip, forever. Today, we asked our team what their top destination is for 2026, and it’s no surprise that the list spans all corners of the globe! 🌍
TLDR
Photo: Siergiy in Lake Garda for Flytographer. Jennifer and family capture memories at Lake Garda with a family photoshoot.
1. Iceland
“Iceland has topped my bucket list for years, and 2026 is finally the year it happens. I’m planning to take my two adult sons to Reykjavik for an adventure across some of the country’s most iconic landscapes: the Golden Circle, otherworldly glaciers, thundering waterfalls, and hidden ice caves. We’ll drive the Ring Road at a leisurely pace, soak in steaming geothermal pools, and immerse ourselves in Icelandic culture through local cuisine. But what I’m most excited about is reconnecting with my Icelandic friends who used to live in Canada. For me, travel is really about those dinners with locals and the genuine connections you make along the way.” – Nicole, Founder + CEO
Why is Iceland popular in 2026?
Iceland continues to captivate travellers with its otherworldly landscapes and the mesmerizing Northern Lights, which are best viewed during the winter months. Beyond the celestial light show, Iceland offers year-round adventures through its dramatic national parks, endless hiking trails, and natural hot springs that provide the perfect respite after a day of exploration. ❄️
Photo: Luis in Reykjavik for Flytographer. Grace and partner capture memories in Iceland with a couples photoshoot.
2. Colombia
“If I could travel anywhere in the world, I would travel to Cartagena, Colombia! As an avid coffee drinker but amateur connoisseur, I would love to take a coffee-focused trip with tastings, tours and of course, coffee bean shopping! I also haven’t been to South America yet, so it would be my last continent to touch other than Antarctica!” – Natalie, Social Media Manager
Why is Colombia popular in 2026?
Colombian ecotourism is on the rise, with a strong focus on sustainability in both the agricultural and tourism industries. The country truly shines from coffee plantations in the mountains to vibrant street murals in cities like Cartagena and Bogotá. ☕ Their commitment to preserving its natural beauty while welcoming visitors makes it an ideal destination for conscious travellers looking for authentic cultural experiences and hidden gems off the beaten path.
Photo: Juan A. in Cartagena for Flytographer. A couple walking in front of a yellow building in Cartagena.
3. Spain
“We’re heading to the Costa del Sol for a family wedding this summer, with plans to hop over to Palma de Mallorca afterward. I’ve always planned my travels around exceptional hotels, and La Residencia, a Belmond Hotel, has been on my list for years – the perfect blend of elegance, natural beauty, and family-friendly calm for travelling with a toddler. For 2026, I’m craving a balance of adventure and slow, grounding moments with my family: sunshine, good food, and memories made together in new places.” – Terrene, Marketing & Partnerships
Why is Spain popular in 2026?
Spain has always been a travel favourite, but 2026 brings fresh energy to this sun-soaked destination. From the old town streets of Barcelona to the art galleries of Madrid, Spain delivers culture, cuisine, and unforgettable getaways all year round. Plus, with its family-friendly resorts and romantic hideaways, there’s truly something for every type of traveller. ☀️
Photo: Myriam in Palma de Mallorca for Flytographer. A photo of a couple admiring the view in Palma de Mallorca.
4. Italy
“I would love to cycle around Lake Garda and do a bikepacking trip with my partner. We love outdoor adventures and exploring the world this way – it was definitely a lot easier before kids, though! 😅 Lake Garda sounds like a dream because it combines beautiful scenery, but also delicious food along the way! Next year, we’d like to slow down and simply enjoy moments of doing nothing at all! Those are the memories that I want to create and capture. We always feel like we are running a marathon, and we want more “pause” moments this year!” – Melodie, Head of Experience Operations
Why is Italy popular in 2026?
Northern Italy is having a major moment in 2026, thanks to the Winter Olympics being held in Milan and the Dolomites this February. The region has also seen a surge in world-class wellness retreats in recent years, drawing visitors to its stunning mountain landscapes and hiking trails. Meanwhile, Venice is capturing hearts all over again as Season 5 of Emily in Paris was partially filmed in the city’s romantic canals and hidden gems. Emily is living her best Italian life, and honestly, we’re here for it!
Photo: Sergiy in Lake Garda for Flytographer. Skye and partner capture memories at Lake Garda with a couples photoshoot.
5. Japan
“Japan! 🇯🇵 It’s always been on my wishlist for the sights, the culture, the food and the shopping! I also have a friend from high school who lives there who I would love to reconnect with. Second-hand designer handbags, sushi, shrines and takoyaki here I come! In a world where it’s easy to feel chronically online and spend evenings scrolling, I want to create more memories of being in the moment with people I love, experiencing life unplugged – whether that’s through a game night at home in front of the fireplace, or walking through the city streets of Tokyo.” – Caitlin, Head of Product
“If I could go anywhere in the world this year, it would be Japan. It has been on my travel list for years, and ideally, my vacation would be filled with lots of nature and delicious food. A perfect travel day for me is spending time in nature or walking around exploring city streets in Tokyo, and then finishing the day with a delicious meal. Japan would be the perfect blend of nature and city life, and Japanese food is one of my favourite kinds of cuisine.” – Emma, Photographer Success Manager
Why is Japan popular in 2026?
It’s not even a close competition – Japan has the most Michelin-starred restaurants out of all the countries on this list, with Tokyo alone claiming the top spot globally. 🍣 You don’t even have to participate in fine dining to experience the breadth of the food scene in Japan. And food is just the beginning. Japan seamlessly blends ancient temples with futuristic skyscrapers, creating a vibe unlike anywhere else on earth. Whether you’re exploring hiking trails around Mount Fuji, soaking in traditional hot springs, or getting lost in the traditional streets of Kyoto, Japan offers a perfect mix of nature and urban adventure.
Photo: Kyo in in Tokyo for Flytographer. Hoa and partner capture memories in Japan with a couples photoshoot.
6. Mexico
“I am excited about travelling to the heart of the Land of Sun, to Mexico City. 🇲🇽 There is something about this city that draws me in, from the vibrant cultural heritage to the authentic street food scene and the rich history of the Aztecs. Many tourists flock to the resorts on the coast, but what excites me most about this country is not the beach, but rather the opportunity to immerse myself in the local culture and catch a glimpse of the local life. Seeing the Teotihuacan pyramids is on my bucket list, and if I have time at the end, I think a stopover in Guadalajara would be super interesting as well!” – Meg, Marketing Manager
Why is Mexico popular in 2026?
Mexico is having its moment on the world stage in 2026, as the country co-hosts the FIFA World Cup alongside the USA and Canada. The capital’s world-class museums, colourful murals, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Teotihuacan make it a cultural hotspot that rivals any major European city.
Photo: Alejandra in Mexico City for Flytographer. A photo of a couple standing outside of a shop at night in Mexico City.
7. United Kingdom
“I would love to go to the UK to visit both mine and my partner’s homeland and learn about our ancestry. As a dancer, it would also be incredible to train with some amazing dance teachers I admire. I would love to visit both London and Northern Scotland!” – Vanessa, Customer Experience Specialist
Why is the UK popular in 2026?
The United Kingdom offers an incredible blend of royal history, world-class art galleries, and diverse cultural experiences that span from London’s iconic skyscrapers to the rugged highlands of Northern Scotland. Whether you’re exploring the old town streets of Edinburgh, discovering luxury farm stays in the English countryside, such as Soho Farmhouse in Oxfordshire near the Cotswolds, or immersing yourself in London’s legendary nightlife and theatre scene, the UK delivers year-round appeal. 🇬🇧
Photo: Jimmy in London for Flytographer. Madeline and partner capture memories in London with a couples photoshoot.
8. Australia
“The top of my travel list this year is definitely Australia, and it’s beautiful sandy beaches, sunny weather, flat whites and all of the animals! 🦘My favourite types of travel are beach destinations mixed with adventure, so I would love to rent a van and explore the Gold Coast and Byron Bay. In 2026 and beyond, I want to continue creating and capturing lifelong memories with the people I love, while meeting new people along the way!” – Jaime, Customer Experience Specialist
Why is Australia popular in 2026?
Australia has always been the ultimate adventure getaway, and its appeal continues to grow with travellers seeking both relaxation and excitement. With the world-class beaches in Byron Bay, the Great Barrier Reef’s snorkelling hotspots and the stunning, unique wilderness of Tasmania, Australia offers year-round outdoor adventures. The country’s unique wildlife, national parks with incredible hiking trails, and that laid-back Aussie vibe make it perfect for road trip adventures and van life experiences. Plus, New Zealand is a short direct flight away.
Photo: Rachel in Byron Bay for Flytographer. A family walking on the beach in Byron Bay.
9. Thailand
“In 2026, I’m most excited about experiencing new places and adventures with my family and documenting the journey, so we have the memories forever. I’d like to take my family to Thailand, both because it’s on my parents’ bucket list, and as a family, all of our travel has been very North America-based, so experiencing a different part of the world and a different culture would be a delight. I’d go to Chiang Mai for the history and to Koh Samui for the world-famous beaches.” – Courtney, Senior Software Developer
Why is Thailand popular in 2026?
If Season 3 of White Lotus didn’t convince you, Thailand continues to be a trending destination into 2026. From the ancient temples and art galleries of Chiang Mai to the beach paradise vibes of Ko Samui, Thailand offers something for everyone. The country’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, bustling night markets, and world-class street food scene provide endless exploration opportunities, while its reputation for warm hospitality makes first-time visitors feel instantly welcome.
Photo: Terry in Chiang Mai for Flytographer. A mom and daughter walking throught the streets of Chiang Mai.
10. Indonesia
“In 2026, I am going to be travelling and working remotely in Bali—I can’t wait to explore all the country has to offer! My friend and I are planning to take surf lessons, visit historic temples, explore the rice terraces and hike to waterfalls and volcanoes—and of course do some island hopping!” – Juliana, Data Analyst
Why is Indonesia popular in 2026?
Bali and the broader Indonesian archipelago continue to offer an unbeatable combination of stunning rice terraces, hidden waterfalls, volcanic hiking trails, and world-class surf breaks, all wrapped in a spiritual and welcoming vibe. 🌴 With excellent snorkelling and diving, year-round tropical weather, and an emerging wellness retreat scene, Indonesia remains one of Southeast Asia’s most diverse and accessible adventure destinations, drawing in eco-tourism travellers and digital nomads from around the globe.
Photo: Jimie in Bali for Flytographer. Erin captures memories on a solo adventure to Bali with a photoshoot.
Capturing memories in 2026
From sipping flat whites on a pier in Sydney to exploring ancient pyramids in Mexico City, the destinations our team is dreaming about for 2026 prove that the best trips are the ones that let you slow down, be present, and create those moments of “pause” worth remembering. ❤️
Whether you’re drawn to cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or simply reconnecting with tradition, these bucket list experiences deserve to be captured beautifully. Our local photographers around the world are ready to meet you in these dream destinations (and so many more). They’ll show you their favourite corners in their home city, help you feel comfortable in front of the camera, and make sure you come home with wall-worthy photos that bring you right back to these moments, forever. Where will 2026 take you? 🗺️
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