Bye bye 2025 👋

We’re bringing you our top destination picks for the spanking new year.

Husky sledding, an Africa Cup of Nations game, Europe's Green Capital, and destination resets - 2026’s got it all. Chuck these top 10 places on your bucket list...

Genoa

Why we like it:
Genoa feels like Italy’s best-kept secret, mixing ancient palaces, epic Mediterranean views, and some of the best food in the country.

With a new high-speed train connection to Milan on the way, now’s the time to explore this gem.

Don't Miss:
Get lost in the narrow caruggi alleyways and discover the unreal, UNESCO Palazzi dei Rolli. Treat yourself to the city’s famous pesto - try it on trofie pasta or focaccia at the Mercato Orientale.

Stroll along the coast to the ancient fishing village of Boccadasse for Cinque Terre vibes but without the crowds.

Muscat

Why we like it:
Dubai's underrated cousin is the perfect blend of deep heritage and lush nature, with a massive dollop of bougie on the side. The landscapes here look like something straight out of Dune, with rugged limestone peaks and wind-sculpted deserts.

Don't Miss:
Stroll along the Mutrah Corniche waterfront, have a wander through the 200yr-old souq, or catch a show at the Royal Opera House. For adventure, head to the dunes or the Hajar Mountains.

Tunis, Tunisia

Why we like it:
Tunisia is the ultimate mix-and-match destination. One minute you’re wandering Roman ruins or old-school medinas, the next you’re lounging at a retro beach resort.

Don't Miss:
Making the most of how compact it is: you can swim in the Med, explore ancient sites, munch your way through incredible Jewish–North African eats, and still make it to the Sahara for sunset.

Browse treasure filled museums, get lost in medinas, then finish strong, either with beachside cocktails or a camel trek into the desert to sleep under the stars.

Kotor

Why we like it:
Montenegro is turning 20 in 2026, and it’s the perfect excuse to visit. This small but mighty Balkan country packs a lot into a tiny space — You’ve got the jaw-dropping Bay of Kotor with its Venetian old towns and clear Adriatic waters.

Don't Miss:
Taking a boat ride around the Bay of Kotor, then heading inland to see a wilder side of the country. Wander the historic streets of Cetinje, spot birds on Lake Skadar, and lace up your boots for the Prokletije mountain. Even tackling just a wee stretch of the Peaks of the Balkans trail is enough to show just how epic Montenegro can be.

Toulouse

Why we like it:
Toulouse is where history, art, and good ‘ol vibes come together. Known as “Paris in miniature,” it’s got the lot - hipster art galleries in repurposed spaces, amazing food, and relaxing river and canal views.

With the iconic Musée des Augustins - a 14th century convent turned art hub - reopening later this year, there’s no better time to plan your visit.

Don't Miss:
Catch live music at Le Saint des Seins or jazz at Le Taquin - Toulouse is a UNESCO City of Music, so the tunes are always on point. Wander through landmarks like the Basilique St-Sernin or the gorg Capitole.

Foodies will love Marché Victor Hugo food market, where you can grab local eats or a cassoulet lunch upstairs.

Mexico City

Why we like it:
Mexico City is a sensory overload in the best possible way. Art and history are everywhere, from Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera’s legacy to epic murals splashed across buildings.

But this is no dusty museum city. It’s huge, creative, constantly evolving, and brilliantly liveable, with buzzy plazas, slick cocktail bars and great public transport.

Don't Miss:
Museum hop between world-class collections, then wander from plaza to plaza to soak up the city’s everyday energy. Dive into Mercado Medellín for marigolds, dried chilies, mole pastes and sizzling chicharrón.

Nairobi

Why we like it:
Kenya’s capital feels like a living, breathing work of art. The streets are buzzing with Matatu buses turned into moving graffiti murals, and around every corner pokes a quirky cafe serving up local coffee or creative art spaces.

And where else can you see lions and rhinos roam around against a backdrop of skyscrapers?

Don't Miss:
Kuona Art Space is THE spot - it’s packed with bold, fresh works from Kenyan artists, while the Maasai Market is a treasure trove of handmade jewellery, baskets and clothes.

Take a craft workshop with local artisans at Opportunity Factory, then bike the shady trails, go for a jog, or just soak up the peaceful vibes at Karura Forest.

Vilnius

Why:
Vilnius a city that blends eco and art effortlessly. Think tree-lined streets with pop-up installations, bold galleries, and even trees rocking knitted sweaters. It’s got creativity seeping out every crack.

Don't Miss:
Start your night with craft cocktails at Champaneria, then dance it out at Bardakas.

Take a day trip to see the moving Hill of Crosses or lose yourself in the forests and lakes of Aukštaitija National Park.

Finland

Why:
Finland is nature turned up to 100. Forests, lakes and wide-open space as far as the eye can see, with some seriously cool cities sprinkled in between.

Helsinki is an easy, stylish starting point with great eats and design, and from there it’s all about slowing down and leaning into the outdoorsy.

Don't Miss:
Hop between islands in Turku, chill by the water in Tampere, or grab snacks at Oulu’s market square, then head north or out into the wild.

Experience Sámi reindeer-herding culture around Inari, chase the northern lights in Lapland, and try husky sledding. Wrap it all up with a sauna and a night in a cosy cabin or glass igloo.

Fès

Why we like it:
Fès is fully in its comeback era. After years of behind-the-scenes restoration, the medieval medina is looking better than ever, with ancient libraries, souks and riverside spots freshly revived but still packed with everyday life.

Throw in music festivals, major football matches and even a rare solar eclipse in 2026.

Don't Miss:
Have a nose around the medina, check out the restored fonduks now packed with local artisans, and dip into the Al Batha Museum for a fresh take on Morocco’s history.

Time it right for the Fès Festival of World Sacred Music, catch an Africa Cup of Nations game, or go all in on eclipse fever in August.