Travelers have spoken, and the results are in: Tripadvisor’s Best of the Best 2026 awards have officially crowned the world’s must-visit locations. In a year defined by a desire for immersive cultural experiences and breathtaking natural beauty, Bali, Indonesia, has reclaimed its throne as the #1 Top Destination in the World. Meanwhile, the Atlantic jewel of Madeira, Portugal, has surged to the top of the trending list, capturing the imagination of global adventurers. For American travelers, the spotlight shines brightly on Chicago, which has secured a prestigious spot as a top trending global destination ahead of a historic summer.
Bali Reclaims the Crown: The Ultimate 2026 Travel Guide
After a brief hiatus from the top spot, Bali has returned as the undisputed champion of the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards. This Indonesian paradise is not just a destination; it is a "living postcard" that continues to captivate millions. The 2026 rankings, based on twelve months of review data, highlight a shift toward destinations that offer a holistic mix of relaxation and adventure.
Travelers are no longer just lounging on Kuta Beach. The surge in positive reviews cites immersive experiences like the Mount Batur Jeep Adventure—a sunrise expedition up an active volcano—and guided snorkeling tours among the manta rays of Nusa Penida. These activities have cemented Bali's status as the best place to visit in 2026 for those seeking spiritual and physical rejuvenation. Whether it's the lush rice terraces of Ubud or the cliffside temples of Uluwatu, Bali delivers consistently high satisfaction across accommodation, dining, and activities.
Honeymooners’ Paradise
It’s not just general travelers singing Bali’s praises. The island also secured the #1 spot for Best Honeymoon Destinations, edging out luxury heavyweights like Mauritius and the Maldives. Its unique blend of affordable luxury, private villa accommodations, and world-class hospitality makes it the premier choice for romance in 2026.
Madeira, Portugal: The #1 Trending Destination for 2026
If Bali is the reigning queen, Madeira is the breakout star. Named the #1 Trending Destination in the World, this Portuguese archipelago is experiencing a massive spike in interest. Often called the "Hawaii of Europe," Madeira offers dramatic volcanic landscapes, lush botanical gardens, and a mild year-round climate without the overwhelming crowds of mainland Europe.
What is driving this trend? Reviews point to the island's unique outdoor offerings, particularly levada walks (hiking trails along irrigation channels) and canyoning adventures in Funchal’s Ecological Park. Unlike the frenetic energy of other European hotspots, Madeira is celebrated for its "relaxed atmosphere" and safety, making it a hit for families and solo female travelers alike. As travelers look for sustainable and nature-centric alternatives to traditional city breaks, Madeira Portugal trending status is well-earned.
Chicago: The U.S. Star of 2026 Travel Trends
In a significant win for North American tourism, Chicago has claimed the #3 spot on the global Trending Destinations list—the highest ranking for any U.S. city in this category. While the Windy City is a perennial favorite, 2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year, largely driven by the highly anticipated opening of the Barack Obama Presidential Center in June 2026.
Located in historic Jackson Park, the campus is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of visitors, serving as a new cultural anchor for the South Side. Beyond this historic opening, Chicago continues to dazzle with its architectural marvels. The Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise remains one of the most highly-rated experiences in the entire country. The city also ranked #6 in the Top Destinations in the U.S. and #6 for Food, solidifying its reputation as a triple threat of culture, cuisine, and history.
Other U.S. Winners
While Chicago steals the trending headlines, New York City remains the heavyweight champion, holding the #1 spot for Top Destinations in the U.S. and ranking #10 globally. Las Vegas and Oahu followed as domestic favorites, proving that classic American vacation spots still hold sway over traveler hearts.
Global Highlights: Food, Culture, and Solo Travel
The 2026 travel trends reveal a diverse array of interests. London continues to dominate the culinary world, taking the crown as the #1 Food Destination globally, praised for its dynamic mix of Michelin-starred institutions and vibrant street markets like Borough Market. For culture vultures, Singapore debuted at #1 for Culture Destinations, recognized for its seamless blend of heritage shophouses and futuristic sustainability.
Solo travel is also having a major moment. Dublin, Ireland, was named the #1 destination for solo travelers, celebrated for its safe streets, walkable city center, and the legendary conviviality of its pub culture, where making new friends is practically guaranteed.
As you plan your 2026 travel itinerary, these Tripadvisor Best of the Best 2026 winners offer a roadmap to the most reliable and unforgettable experiences on the planet. Whether you choose the jungles of Bali, the cliffs of Madeira, or the architectural canyons of Chicago, the world is open and waiting.
